Your World Connected

Vol. 2 Issue 27 10.00 24 Pages RNI Reg. No.: PUNMUL/2012/45041 Postal Reg. No. PB/JL-047/2013-15
Page 15

SUNDAY 07 July 2013

www.facebook.com/uconnectt

Weekly Newspaper
Celebrity 14

National 4

International 6

Campus 11

Leisure 16

Business 20

Sports 22

President approves food ordinance, opposition cries foul

Survivor account from Uttarakhand

DEAL OR NO DEAL?

From jaws of death, man, son return to tell the horror tale
Page 5

Page 3

Jet-Etihad Deal Threatens To Crashland At The Doorstep Of The Prime Ministers Office Detailed Coverage on Is he listening?

Page 12

Morsi deposed in a Coup

Egyptian army suspends constitution, apex court chief to head nation

A changing t s o l a d n a world r o f y t i n u t r oppo India

Page 13

Mirza, Bopanna, Paes lose at Wimbledon

Page 6 Page 23

2 Politics Encountered

OPINION
EDITORIAL DESK
legal sanction as a counter insurgency tool. Similarly in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra they have formed the backbone of fight against organized crime. The usage of encounters as a law enforcement technique is reflective of weak judicial system and poor evidence quality. Arguably enough encounters do not deserve existence in a democratic setup. However till we are able to resolve that, we need to develop guidelines about what can be a legitimate policing exercise and what constitutes excessive use of force?

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Manu Sharma
CBI claims the encounter to be a fake or staged one. Curiously the government at any level has not defined parameters of a fake encounter from a real one. Also, the evidentiary value of hearsay that CBI has relied upon while framing the charge sheet leaves many a loopholes for the defence attorneys. No individual whether terrorist or not should be denied the due process of the law but there must be some leeway allowed for officers in the line of fire to be able to do their jobs sans pressure from human rights industry.

An agency with dubious distinction of censure by the highest court of the land cannot be the paragon of justice. Therefore the CBI and its charge sheet in the Ishrat Jahan case evoke a cynical and banal response amongst the populace. The timing of the case, leakage of stories to the media and counter allegations emanating from political fold have already tainted the investigation in a serious manner. Encounters constitute a grey area for law enforcement agencies in India. In Punjab, Kashmir and the North East, encounters have enjoyed some

Has Akhileshs free laptop scheme run into rough weather?

Mohit Dubey An ambitious scheme to distribute free laptops and tablets to students who pass out of class 12 and class 10 pass in Uttar Pradesh may have run into rough weather, officials say. Against the target of more than 15 lakh laptops to be distributed among students passing class 12, officials say, so far only 79,491 have been distributed under the scheme, which is accredited with contributing significantly to the victory of the Samajwadi Party (SP) in the 2012 assembly polls. Official sources cite frequent changes in the state secondary education department and the dwindling interest of the states political leadership in the project as the two main reasons behind the slow pace of the project. In the last three months, the secondary education department has seen three secretaries - Parthasarthy Sen Sharma, Kamran Rizvi and now Devesh Chaturvedi. With the budget of the scheme being high, top officials are vary of signing on the dotted line and are simply not letting the files move, a senior official who did not wish to be identified told IANS. The Uttar Pradesh Electronics Corporation Limited (UPLC), the procurement agency for the laptops and tablets, has done its bit. But the secondary education department which is the nodal department for overseeing the distribution has been delaying the process, the official said. According to officials, laptops have been distributed in 13 districts - Lucknow, Mainpuri, Hamirpur, Bareilly, Ghaziabad, Noida, Etawah, Farukkhabad, Firozabad, Varanasi, Chitrakoot, Mahoba and Banda. However, they say that 3.15 lakh laptops delivered for distribution in 48 more districts are now lying in godowns and stores for want of finalisation of dates for distribution and also because of tardy administrative processes. Such districts include Jhansi, Kanpur city, Sambhal, Amroha, Balrampur, Barabanki, Gonda, Rampur, Agra and Kannauj. Official sources claim that the laptop distribution has suffered because of tight schedules of political leaders including that of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. After a lull of several months, the distribution resumed in June with the last one made in Firozabad June 24. District officials alleged that the chief ministers secretariat has been sitting on the files for the last one week. If we dont get clearance on the availability of the chief minister how are we expected to proceed further, questions an official. The monsoon has also hit the scheme hard. Many districts officials told us that they were not in a position to receive more computers as there is no place to store them, a UPLC official said. He added that by next week 4.15 lakh more laptops would be handed over to the state by Hewlett Packard (HP), the company which won the global tender. We are sending the UPLC all the laptops for which orders have been placed with us. As per our the agreement, all laptops would be supplied by September 15. We are on schedule, said an HP representative, adding that payment of more than Rs.100 crore was kept pending and it took lot of effort by the UPLC officials to get it released. The officials at HP are also worried about the losses in view of the eroding value of rupee in relation to the US dollar. We are in for losses if the whole thing is not expedited, concedes an HP official. State government officials are also silent over the eight lakh odd laptops yet to be procured for free distribution in the state. The state cabinet had approved the free laptop distribution scheme on Jan 23, 2013. More than 15 lakh laptops were to be distributed among class 12 pass outs throughout the state including those clearing exams conducted by UP Board, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE). Besides laptops, 26 lakh computer tablets were also to be distributed among class 10 pass outs under the scheme. Four firms -- HP, HCL, Lenovo and Acer -- participated in the bidding process for supplying laptops to the state government quoting their price per laptop as Rs.19,058, Rs.21,983, Rs.23,919 and Rs.25,199, respectively. The tender worth Rs.2,400 crore floated by the UP government to buy laptops was the worlds biggest such tender.

Egyptian Spring Turns Winter

Egypt erupted to replace a Mubarak with Morsi in 2011. Morsi, a veteran of Muslim Brotherhood movement that sought to install a hardliner Islamic bent in Egyptian national discourse, became a freely elected democratic face of Islam in Egypt. The momentous twist in regions politics was heralded by analysts as the advent of theological rule in Egypt. Despite assumptions to contrary the Muslim Brotherhood managed to play by the rules of democracy by and large. However the party or the movement failed to grasp the expectations of the population. Egyptians voted for an ideologically hardliner grouping not because of their belief in extreme religious practices, they voted them in for their perceived integrity and aversion to hedonistic kleptocracy that Egypt was slowly turning into. Muslim Brotherhood ran into opposition from liberals and entrenched elite on account of its haste to occupy the key institutions in the government. To put it in context Muslim Brotherhood has remained a banned organization in Egypt for better part of the century with its leadership either jailed or exiled. Hence winning an election by the

Muslim Brotherhood was considered a shot in the arm by those campaigning for Pax Islamia in the Middle East and North Africa. Egyptians and their army was however not beholden to the ideology. They instead wanted a transparent government under a leader who improved lives of ordinary Egyptians rather than instruct them in faith and piety. The coup that toppled Morsi has demolished all the romanticised notions of democracy and freedom in Egypt but it has also brought the realization that democracy without development is often rejected by the people.

Speciesism means we can no longer be rude to curs

Nury Vittachi One of the joys of living in Asia is that life is delightfully unpredictable, which was the exact phrase used when a few of us learned, while enjoying lunch at an open air caf, that 100 crocodiles had escaped from the local reptile farm. Relax, said one of my dining companions. If they get anywhere near the downtown area, theyll be snapped up by people who make handbags. His answer infuriated the vegetarian in our party, who accused him of speciesism. I rebutted this on his behalf by pointing out that (a) there was no such word, and (b) even if there was, it would be totally impossible to say after two glasses of wine. (Try it.) She did a Google search on her phone and proved me spectacularly wrong by finding 352,000 references to speciesism, apparently a hot new trend in the West. Speciesism, a follow-up to sexism and racism, is a new Western rule of political correctness which requires that all species must be considered equal. Implying that one species is lower than another would not be allowable. So when Shakespeare says thou foulest cur, the actor would have to add Not that theres anything wrong with being a cur. If anti-speciesism policies become law, making a crocodile into a handbag will be a crime as bad as making a politician into a handbag, despite the fact that doing the second would clearly be a public service. But I had a question: If all species are equal, what would we eat? The vegetarian said that the anti-speciesism movement had decided that vegetables, although technically living species, could be eaten as they did not have feelings. This interesting concession implies that we could also feel free to chow down on stockbrokers, pet shop owners, direct mail gurus, etc. A day later, a reader sent me a link to a Times of India story about a leopard which got stuck in a well but was saved after a rescue cage filled with live chickens was lowered into the hole. This incident, which happened near Ooty at the end of last month, read like a feelgood story. But under the new antispeciesism rules, it now becomes a vicious tale of deliberate multiple chicken-murder. The next item in the inbox, about a lizard, reminded me about a phone conversation I once reported between a Western expatriate lady and a police officer. CALLER: Theres a lizard in my house. COP: This is normal in Asia, Madam. Ignore it. Ten minutes later she called again. CALLER: Cant you please come and get rid of it for me? COP: No! Just ignore it. CALLER: Im trying to, but it just knocked over the coffee table. Police raced to the house and discovered that some kind of dinosaur-sized giant iguana was terrorizing her.

Ritwik Bagchi Notwithstanding their daily grim battle for survival, a group of visually challenged people - the majority of them beggars - have come together to contribute their lot in improving the lives of others. Forty sightless people have formed the Paschimbanga Agragami Andha Samity (West Bengal Forward Association for the Visually Challenged) to give shape to their dreams that include training the needy to earn their daily bread. During the 1980s, we started organising the blind people of the Kadambagachi area. We began an initiative to educate the poor, blind people by first teaching them braille. Gradually, we came in touch with a larger number of blind people in our neighbourhood, said PAAS secretary Kanai Sarkar,

Sightless and poor, but visionary in deed

who makes a living by singing along with his sightless wife in trains. Born in 2008 and based in Kareya Kadambagachi of North 24 Parganas district, 40 km from Kolkata, the organisation has drawn its members locally as also from neighbouring districts like South 24 Parganas and Nadia. PAAS has reached out to visually challenged people from diverse sections like beggars, singers and hawkers and has now blossomed into a platform for addressing the concerns of the sightless. There were many smiles June 17 on the weather-beaten faces of the members when the organisation got an office of its own - a small room with roof and walls of tin - beside platform number two at the Kareya Kadambagachi railway station. We will register our organisation soon, a delighted Sarkar told IANS. The members have been playing the Good Samaritan over the past five years. We contributed Rs.500 to the Chief Ministers Relief Fund for victims of Cyclone Aila (that struck the Sundarbans region in the states southern tip causing immense damage in 2009), said Sarkar. Last year, they distributed blankets among the poor and destitute people of Kadambagachi. Asked about PAAS programmes, Sarkar said besides arranging proper singing lessons for the blind by roping in good teachers, they want to help the distressed. But how are they going to make that possible when they themselves are economically backward and a majority of them earn their livelihood by begging in trains and on the streets? We will raise funds according to our ability. We will prove that we can contribute to society, albeit in a small way, Sarkar explained. PAAS also wants to present a charter of demands to the government. We want a disability allowance and government identity cards for every blind person, Sarkar said. Sarkar is anguished at societys insensitivity to the visually challenged. The organisation is concerned over many blind people not getting BPL (below poverty line) cards despite fulfilling all the criteria. When BPL cards are made, blind people are often neglected. PAAS has also linked up with the Paschimbanga Oikya Pratibondhi Mancha (West Bengal United Platform for the Physically Challenged, West Bengal) umbrella organisation encompassing all physically challenged people. It provides us a stronger base to convey our demands, Sarkar said. Adam Ali, a singer who claims to have been a regular artist for All India Radio till 2000, is the president of PAAS. He is ready to teach the grammar of music to talented blind people.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Letters may be emailed to the editoruconnect@gmail.com ,with full postal address and the full name or the name with initials.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Food ordinance will not cause President approves food ordinance, financial burden: Congress opposition cries foul
New Delhi The Congress Friday said the ordinance on food security, approved by the union cabinet Wednesday, would not be a financial burden on the economy, and would help battle malnutrition and hunger. The food ordinance will help battle malnutrition and hunger in the nation. The food security ordinance will not impact fiscal deficit or affect financial management of the country, Congress general secretary Ajay Maken told reporters at a joint press conference here with Food Minister K.V. Thomas. The ordinance, said Maken, has been sent to President Pranab Mukherjee, and the government awaits his consent. He said the ordinance would bring an additional burden of Rs.23,800 crore, which was negligible given the plan size of Rs.5.55 lakh crore. As per our calculations, Rs.23,800 crore would be the additional burden on the exchequer after it (food security ordinance) is implemented. Out of the total plan budget of Rs.555,000 crore, an amount of Rs.23,800 crore is negligible and wont have any effect on the exchequer, he said. Maken also added that the expected cost of Rs.1,24,723 crore in implementing the ordinance would have no adverse impact on the fiscal deficit target of 4.8 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) this financial year. There are reports that it is not possible to implement it technically and financially, but all things have been well thought out, he said. Stating that the Congress was merely implementing its 2009 poll promise, the party general secretary said the legislation should not be linked to the upcoming elections in five states and the 2014 general elections. Terming it a dream of top leadership, including Sonia Gandhi, prime minister and Rahul Gandhi, Maken said the ordinance, which is expected to benefit around 800 million people, was the largest social welfare intervention anywhere in the world. The government opted for the ordinance route as there was no other option left, said Maken. He attacked the opposition for not passing the bill during the budget session. It was promised by the Congress party in its 2009 manifesto. The bill was introduced in December 2011, and we repeatedly appealed to the opposition to discuss the bill and pass it, he noted. The entire budget session was washed out. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had sought to evolve a wider consensus on the bill, but that did not emerge. There was no other way... when the opposition does not want to discuss and pass it, he said. According to Thomas, the bill was first introduced in parliament in December 2011 and remained with the standing committee for a year before it was taken to the Lok Sabha for consideration and passing in the budget session that ended May 8. Maken said the ordinance gives six months to the states to roll out the right to food law and also to identify the beneficiaries. Saying that the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) has the required numbers in the Lok Sabha to get the legislation through, he hoped the government would be able to pass the ordinance in parliament. The food bill, already with parliament, will be taken up for discussion along with the ordinance, Maken said. Fresh consultations with the opposition parties would be held to evolve consensus on the ordinance when it reaches parliament, the Congress general secretary said. On the implementation of the ordinance, Food Minister Thomas said the government has already procured 60.2 million tonnes of grain in the past four years and would have no difficulty in managing the 61.2 million tonnes needed for implementing it. New Delhi President Pranab Mukherjee Friday promulgated the national food security ordinance, which gives around 67 percent of Indias 1.2 billion people 5 kg grain per month at highly subsidized rates. The union cabinet Wednesday approved the ordinance, which gives six months to the states to roll out the right to food law and also to identify the beneficiaries. The measure, the largest social welfare intervention in the world, is expected to be a game-changer for the ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government coming ahead of the polls to five state assemblies this year-end, and the general elections of 2014. The Congress said the decision should not be linked to the polls. The food bill, a pet project of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, is part of its 2009 poll promise, the party said while clarifying that it would bring no financial burden to the exchequer and would not upset plans to rein in fiscal deficit at 4.8 percent of the GDP. The opposition, however, kept on its attack and charged the government, which is in minority in parliament and is surviving on outside support, of skipping a debate by passing the ordinance and demeaning parliament. Successive government have repeatedly failed in addressing the problem of malnutrition, it is a shame. Now they are bringing this through ordinance, what were they doing for four years? Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Brinda Karat told reporters. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said it is a political

step. Why did they have to pass an ordinance? When Sushmaji (Swaraj) had said we were ready for a special session, what was the urgency to bring the ordinance? The only thing I can infer is after a parliament debate, it will become parliament bill of food security, and now this is only Sonia Gandhi ordinance of food security, he said. Even Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, whose party supports the UPA from outside, opposed the food security ordinance, saying it was anti-farmer. There is a great risk that the law can prove dangerous for farmers. Wheat, rice and sugar are the biggest agricultural produce. If these are provided at low cost by the government, who will buy these from farmers? This is a major issue, Mulayam Singh said in Lucknow. The ordinance will help the farmers, countered the Congress, adding that there was no other option as the opposition did not allow the food bill to be debated in the budget session.

The bill was introduced in December 2011, and we repeatedly appealed to the opposition to discuss the bill and pass it, Congress general secretary Ajay Maken told reporters. The entire budget session was washed out. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had sought to evolve a wider consensus on the bill, but that did not emerge. There was no other way... when the opposition does not want to discuss and pass it, he said. But BJPs Yashwant Sinha blamed the Congress for the disruptions. If the parliament was adjourned, it was because of government, he said. Food Minister K.V. Thomas said the government will have no difficulty in managing 61.2 million tonnes grain needed for implementing the ordinance. Issues like storage space and digitisation of distribution system were being improved, he said. The ordinance has to be ratified by parliament in the coming monsoon session, likely to start early August. We will be able to manage the numbers in both houses, Congress general secretary Ajay Maken asserted.

Food ordinance: Opposition questions timing, Congress defends move

New Delhi A day after the Manmohan Singh cabinet approved an ordinance to give effect to the food security bill, politics hotted up over UPAs flagship welfare legislation with opposition parties questioning its timing and the Congress defending the pro-poor measure. The proposed ordinance, which seeks to give legal right to 67 percent of the countrys 1.2 billion population to subsidized food grain, comes a few weeks before the monsoon session of parliament, likely to commence early August. A pet project of United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, the scheme aims to provide subsidised food grain to around 800 million people at an initial cost of around Rs.1.3 lakh crore to the government. It is expected to be a gamechanger for the UPA ahead of the polls to five state assemblies this year-end and the general elections in 2014. The Communist Party of India-Marxist slammed the government, contending the ordinance route for the food security bill displayed its contempt for parliament. The ordinance route shows contempt for parliament and is anti-democratic, the CPI-M politburo said in a statement while pushing for a universal public distribution system. In Guwahati, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Rajnath Singh questioned the timing of the ordinance while clar-

Food bill a political move, says opposition

New Delhi The opposition Friday slammed the government again over the food security ordinance that was approved by the union cabinet Wednesday, calling it a political move before elections. Successive governments failed repeatedly in addressing the problem of malnutrition. It is a shame. Now they are bringing this through ordinance. What were they doing for four years? Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Brinda Karat told reporters. Were they sleeping all this time? Why are they blaming the opposition now? she said. BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said the National Food Security Bill was a political move. Why did they have to pass an ordinance when Sushma (Swaraj) had said we were ready for a special session? What was the urgency to bring the ordinance? After a parliament debate, it will become a bill of food security. This is only (UPA chairperson) Sonia Gandhis ordi-

nance of food security, Prasad said. It is just a crude attempt to score political brownie points, he told TV channel Times Now. BJP leader Yashwant Sinha added that the government was to be blamed for parliament disruptions. If parliament was adjourned, it was because of the UPA government, he said.

ifying that his party was not opposed to the food bill but wanted it to be debated in parliament. The government could not get the bill passed in over four years of the UPAII being in power, he said, Why is it in a hurry now? We want to pass the bill with some amendments, he said. The BJP did not allow the bill to be debated in the budget session that ended May 8 and instead harped on alleged faulty allocation of coal blocks and demanded Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs resignation. The Congress on the other hand accused the opposition of playing politics over the issue. It is amusing that the ones who are shedding crocodile tears on parliamentary propriety are also the ones who have acquired a PhD in disruptionitis (sic), Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari told reporters here.

He claimed that even though the opposition was accusing the government of demeaning parliament, it had not respected the institution either and had repeatedly forced adjournments and disrupted proceedings in the past. The opposition needs to reflect as to the manner in which they have treated parliament, the scant respect they have displayed for parliamentary institutions, parliamentary traditions, and the functioning of parliament. Dont we all recall the November session of 2010, which was wiped out, dont we recall the monsoon session of last year, he asked. The Congress also said the ordinance should not be linked to early polls. It has nothing to do with elections. The Congress does not think of the polls, it thinks of the people. It was our promise and we have done it, Congress spokesperson Meem Afzal told reporters.

NATIONAL NEWS
as a prosecution witness. It also named R a i l w a y Boards Joint Secretary (Confidential) P. Rajeshkaran and Joint Director Vigilance R. Vijayan Nair, as witnesses. Several officials from various banks have been named as witnesses. The CBI arrested the accused for their alleged roles in the bribe case, in which a deal of Rs.10 crore was finalised for arranging for Mahesh Kumar one of the top positions in the Railway Board. Manjunath and Goyal, managing director of GG Tronics India Pvt. Ltd., helped Mahesh Kumar in arranging money to give bribe to Singla and were to get favours from Mahesh Kumar after his appointment as Railway Board member (electrical). Singla allegedly demanded Rs.10 crore and accepted a bribe of Rs.90 lakh from Mahesh Kumar for his (Mahesh Kumars) future appointment as member (electrical) of the powerful Railway Board. Singla accepted a bribe of Rs.90 lakh May 3 in his office, the CBI said. There is evidence that he accepted a bribe of Rs 90.lakh on May 3 in his office, which was the part-payment of

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Railway bribery scandal: Court takes note of charge sheet

New Delhi A Delhi court took cognizance of the charge sheet filed by the CBI against Vijay Singla, nephew of former railway minister Pawan Kumar Bansal, and nine others in the alleged Rs.10 crore cash-for-post bribery scandal. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Special Judge Swarana Kanta Sharma took cognizance of the charge sheet and posted the matter for proceedings July 11. Filing the formal charges July 2, the probe agency named as the accused Singla, suspended Railway Board Member Mahesh Kumar, alleged middlemen Sandeep Goyal, Samir Sandhir, Sushil Daga, Ajay Garg, Rahul Yadav and businessman Manjunath and his aides P.V. Murali and Venugopal. Barring Murali and Venugopal, the CBI has arrested eight others named in its charge sheet. Bansal, a Congress leader who lost his job in the cabinet after the scam surfaced, was questioned by the CBI but was not named in the charge sheet as the agency could not find any evidence of his direct involvement. However, Bansal has been named as a prosecution witness. The agency filed a list of 90 prosecution witnesses along with the charge sheet and named Bansal as the 39th witness. All the accused have been formally charged for the offence of criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code and relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Besides Bansal, the CBI has also named Railway Boards former chairman Vinay Mittal, who retired July 1,

Hit by Nitaqat, Indians in Saudi Arabia regularising stay

total bribe of Rs.10 crore for the alleged appointment of (Mahesh) Kumar as member (electrical), the charge sheet said. Singla was the main person whose influence was to be used for the appointment of Mahesh Kumar, the CBI said.

Ghaziabad, Allahabad most polluted in UP, says survey

Lucknow Ghaziabad and Allahabad have emerged as the two most air polluted cities in Uttar Pradesh in a recent survey by a research and advocacy organisation. The survey conducted by Delhibased Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) found pollutants of the size of 10 micron in Ghaziabad, Allahabad, Kanpur and Bareilly, which was four times the acceptable size of particulates in urban areas. It also found air pollution levels three times more than the prescribed limits in Lucknow, Firozabad, Agra, Mathura, Khurja, Saharanpur, Moradabad and Gajraula. The status report on the pollution levels in the states major cities was released at a workshop here Tuesday. The air quality in Unnao, however, has come out as the cleanest despite a heavy presence of tanneries in the town. The presence of nitrogen-dioxide is found to be growing dangerously in Meerut, Gorakhpur, Ghaziabad and Kanpur. It is the highest in Meerut and lowest in Rae Bareilly, the survey said. Sulphur-di-oxide has been found mixed in the air at dangerous levels in Khurja and Ghaziabad. The presence of multi-pollutants has been found in cities like Mathura, Khurja and Ghaziabad. In the state capital Lucknow, Vikasnagar, Chowk, Amausi and Charbagh localities have been found to be pollution hot spots. CSE said that serious and sustained efforts are needed to minimise the air pollution in these areas of the city. It added that the growing use of diesel was a major contributor to the growing air pollution levels. CSE said that emissions were leading to serious ailments and diseases like cancer. Poor traffic management and growing number of vehicles is also adding to the scourge, it said.

Political parties shouldnt promise freebies: SC

New Delhi The Supreme Court Friday asked the poll panel to frame guidelines to discourage political parties from promising freebies in their election manifestos as it shakes the root of free and fair elections and disturbs level playing field for the candidates. A bench of Justice P. Satsasivam and Justice Ranjan Gogoi said that such guidelines would be necessary for holding free and fair elections and maintaining a level playing field. The court said that the freebies can influence people and disturb the level playing field. Stating that it had limited powers to issue directions to the legislature to legislate on a particular issue, the court favoured a separate law governing political parties in a democratic polity. We also record the need for a separate legislation to be passed by the legislature in this regard for governing the political parties in our democratic society, the court said. Although, the law is obvious that the promises in the election manifesto cannot be construed as corrupt practice under Section 123 of RP (Representation of People) Act, the reality cannot be ruled out that distribution of freebies of any kind, undoubtedly, influences all people. It shakes the root of free and fair elections to a large degree, said Justice Sathasivam, pronouncing the judgment. Referring to the Election Commissions submission that the promise of such freebies at government cost disturbs the level playing field and vitiates the electoral process and expressing willingness to implement any directions or decision of the court, the court noted that there was no enactment that directly governed the contents of the election manifesto. We hereby direct the Election Commission to frame guidelines for the same in consultation with all the recognized political parties as when it had acted while framing guidelines for general conduct of the candidates, meetings, processions, polling day, party in power etc. In the similar way, the court said that a separate head for guidelines for election manifesto released by a political party can also be included in the Model Code of Conduct for the Guidance of Political Parties & Candidates. The court also said that it was not oblivious of the fact that generally political parties release their election manifesto before the announcement of election date, in that scenario, strictly speaking, the Election Commission will not have the authority to regulate any act which is done before the announcement of the date. Nevertheless, an exception can be made in this regard as the purpose of election manifesto is directly associated with the election process, it said, dismissing a petition by S. Subramaniam Balaji who challenged the DMKs 2006 election manifesto promise to distribute free colour TVs to those households that did not have it if it came to power in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

New Delhi As 92,000 Indians in Saudi Arabia have been given Emergency Certificates to enable them return home over the kingdoms Nitaqat work policy, very few of them are actually leaving. Most are using an extended grace period announced by Saudi Arabia to regularize their stay and switch jobs. According to Indian Ambassador Hamid Ali Rao, the new grace period ends Nov 3 after which the kingdom would become very strict in implementing the Nitaqat. Those overstaying or on invalid work permits would face arrest, huge fines and deportation with a ban on their return. Under Nitaqat or naturalization programme, private sector companies in Saudi Arabia are mandated to employ a certain percentage of locals.In fact, said Rao, the number of Indians has grown by 10,000 since March this year - from 2.88 million to 2.89 million, as on June 30, making Saudi Arabia among the countries with the largest number of Indian, the preferred expatriate community in the country. . The Indian embassy has tried to reach out to thousands of Indians through social media, 24X7 help desks, volunteers, the vernacular media and mobile units posted at exit visa offices to help Indians check their status and rectify it if required. Fanning across to cities, towns and even remote villages in Saudi Arabia, volunteers working with the embassy managed to contact Indians staying for long years in villages in the kingdom, asking them to check their work status and correct it ahead of the deadline. More than 200 companies had approached the embassy offering jobs for Indians, and a job fair was also organized in collaboration with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce. Over 600 volunteers, including the teaching and non-teaching staff of

Indian schools, chipped in to help - for free, manning helpline desks, translating into vernacular languages embassy notices, and helping the affected Indians by explaining to them the circumstances, said the envoy. It was unity in diversity in its truest sense - we all worked as a team.. There were volunteers from Kerala trying to explain in broken Hindi the implications of the Nitaqat to affected workers, volunteers distributing snacks and water, said Rao, According to the envoy, the implementation of the Nitaqat will help in streamlining the labour policy of the Saudi government. Those who work will not come through contractors, they will get their salaries through net transfers, which will eliminate middlemen, he said. Asked how many of the 92,000 Indians given Emergency Certificates had returned to India, Rao said he did not have the figures. According to the Saudi labour ministry, 3.5 million workers have corrected their status since May 10. Of this, around 25-30 percent comprise Indians, or 80,000. The Indian government had been in touch with the Saudi authorities ever since it announced implementation of the work policy in March. External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid had visited Riyadh in May, the first visit by an Indian foreign minister in the last five years. Before that a high level Indian delegation, led by Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi visited the kingdom to discuss the issue with the Saudi labour ministry. Rao feels the Nitaqat programme would in the long run prove beneficial by flushing out all illegal workers and pave the way for additional inflow of Indian workers, who are by far the preferred expatriate community. The remittances by Indians from Saudi Arabia in 2012 was $8.8 billion.

Solve hunger, diseases issues, president urges youth

Kanpur President Pranab Mukherjee Friday urged the youth to help solve problems of hunger, malnutrition and disease. Speaking at the 45th annual convocation of IIT - Kanpur, Mukherjee said the countrys development model envisages higher, sustainable and inclusive growth and science, research and innovation will have to play a leading role. The decade 2010-20 has been declared the decade of innovation in our country, said the president, adding that a science, technology and innovation policy has been formulated for an innovation-led development. According to Mukherjee, the policy underlines the need to adopt a people-centric approach to make innovations relevant for the common citizens. Grassroots innovations, with a little mentoring, can be developed into useful, viable products, said Mukherjee as he called upon the institutes of higher learning to take the lead in driving such ideas. For India to become a knowledge powerhouse, promotion of basic research and innovation, and development of cutting edge technologies are essential, he added. However, he reminded students desiring to pursue higher studies abroad to retain the link with their country as they have a responsibility towards their nation and its citizens. On the occasion, the president awarded Doctor of Science to N.R. Narayana Murthy, founder and executive chairman of the board of Infosys Ltd., and to physicist Ashoke Sen.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

NATIONAL NEWS
From jaws of death, man, son return to tell the horror tale
Dehradun The man and his 25-year-old son have seen death and destruction from close range. Even when people were dying all around them and structures were falling like twigs, they had supreme faith in the powers of the almighty, and today they are alive to tell the horror story of June 17 that wiped out the entire Kedarnath valley and turned many areas into a ghost town. For 15 years Raj Kishore Trivedi had been running a small shop selling photographs of gods, posters and idols outside the revered Kedarnath shrine. But on June 17 in just five minutes, his entire world collapsed. But today, he is not worried about how his family of seven will survive as their only source of livelihood, the shop, no longer exists. Trivedi is happy that he and his elder son Sandeep are alive, and for that he gives credit to only two - the army and god. Lying in the state-run Doon Hospital emergency ward, Trivedi cant move as he has fractured his left leg. His son helps him wash his matted and dirty hair. His leg pains him immensely, but ask him about the fateful day, and he gathers enough courage to narrate the sequence of event that changed their lives - forever. It was 7 a.m. on June 17 that we heard a loud gurgling sound. I heard people shouting run, run and save yourself. Looking up at the commotion, I saw mud, boulders, stones coming at us with the torrent of water. The force of the water was so much that the roofs of many shops were swept away. Both of us then ran towards the temple. I had just entered the temple, when its massive gates were forced shut by the wind. It looked like god was waiting for us to enter. Soon water filled the temple. Only our neck was out of the water, while our entire body was submerged. The force of the water even shook the temple, and many things fell, including the donation box. The box was not so heavy, but as it fell with force, two-three people got trampled under it. They died. We were all very scared. In front of our eyes, we saw several people falling off and dying as they could not take standing submerged in the water for hours. There were around 600 people inside the temple at that time, Trivedi told. The deluge happened in five minutes. But those five minutes have turned into an eternity. His eyes take on a faraway look as he recalls how he and some of the people thought of stepping out of the temple after the water began receding after several hours. But the sight that greeted them stunned and shocked them. There were just dead bodies, in front of the temple and all along the market, just bodies. No shop was intact. The structures had fallen as if some invisible hand had touched it with great force. There was only mud, boulders and huge stones. The bustling market place had turned into a cremation ground, he added. The next nearly 40 hours wait for help was agonising for them. They got shelter at the only remaining

Antony left for China Thursday

Army saved them just like next to God

New Delhi Defence Minister A.K. Antony left Thursday on a four-day official visit to China to discuss the Sino-Indian border, interactions between the two armed forces, as well as regional and global security. An official release said Antony has beene accompanied by Defence Secretary R.K. Mathur, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Command Lt General Dalbir Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval Command Vice Admiral Satish Soni and others from the defence ministry and armed forces. Pranab Mukherjee was the last Indian defence minister to visit China in 2006. Antony will have delegation level talks with his counterpart, State Councillor and the Minister of National Defence Chang Wanquan. Both ministers are expected to discuss a number of issues including those related to maintenance of peace and tranquillity on the border, exchanges and interactions between the armed forces of both sides and matters relating to regional and global security, the release said.

Superindentendent of police sacrificed life for the sake of country

Ranchi Superintendent Amarjit Balihar, who was ambushed and killed Tuesday in Jharkhand, had desperately contacted a police officer and sought help but was promptly killed and the gunshots were heard over his mobile phone, police said. Maoist guerrillas killed the Pakur Superintendent of Police (SP) in an ambush Tuesday. According to DGP Rajiv Kumar, the deputy inspector general of police of Dumka range had called a meeting of senior officers in Dumka, around 350 km from Ranchi. Balihar was ambushed when he was returning to his office, Kumar said. The attack took place in a jungle stretch between Kathikund and Gopikanar when Balihars convoy was passing through. Balihar was returning in a private vehicle. Around 40 to 50 guerrillas, who were hiding, initially triggered a landmine and later fired at random at the police convoy in classic Maoist style. Police officers rushed to spot but it was too late. According to police sources, Maoist guerrillas asked the SP to call police officers for help. Balihar called and sought help, but he was killed and gun shots were heard by the police officers on his mobile. Police sources that the Maoist had concrete information of Balihars movement. Jharkhand Governor Syed Ahmad Wednesday paid homage to Balihar. Balihars body was brought by helicopter to Ranchi Wednesday morning. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) chief Shibu Soren, Chief Secretary R.S. Sharma, police chief Rajiv Kumar as well as senior officials were present at Jharkhand Armed Police (JAP) ground when the final tributes were paid to Balihar. Balihar had joined as deputy superintendent of police in 1986. He was promoted to the IPS in 2003. This was his first posting as a district SP. He is survived by his wife Suman Lata Balihar, who is a teacher, two daughters and a son.
IANS

structure of a guest house. Like them, there were a few hundred who took shelter on the roof top of the guest house. As they had come with food and water they survived the wait for help. The sight of a helicopter was like manna from heaven. And all of them cheered, he says, despite the fact that all they saw was bodies and destruction around. Asked whom he credits for his life. God, He had something in mind for me. If he had not showered his blessings on my son and me, we would not be here, talking to you and sharing our story, Trivedi told.

Asked what he thinks of the hundreds of rescue workers, including the army, his eyes fill up. They are next to god. They were like angels of mercy. There was no state authorities, just them. Both of us owe our lives to them. To god for considering us as his special children, and to the Indian Army who took us in the helicopter and brought us to safety. We are indebted forever to them, Trivedi said. His son Sandeep does not want to talk about their brush with death. He just talks about what he saw -bodies and more bodies. It was like a cremation ground. I find it difficult to sleep thinking about those bodies and the damage. I dont know whether I will ever be alright or I will be able to live a normal life. I wonder whether I will ever be able to smile. I dont know.. lets see, said Sandeep, as he turned away when asked to talk more. For both of them, the future looks bleak. They have lost everything in the flood, But the only hope is that they are alive, and maybe one day when Kedarnath opens again to pilgrims they will be able to set up shop once more and forget those horrible five minutes that altered their lives.
IANS

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Notice issued to CBI on Tytlers plea

New Delhi The Delhi High Court Wednesday issued notice to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on an appeal of Congress leader Jagdish Tytler against a trial court order reopening a case against him related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Justice S.P. Garg, seeking response from the agency, also issued notice to the complainant, Lakhwinder Kaur, and asked her to reply within four weeks. The matter was posted for Sep 18. Justice Garg also declined to stay the investigation ordered by the trial court against Tytler, saying: Only investigation was ordered and this court will not stop the investigation. On April 10, a trial court ordered that the case be reopened against Tytler and also set aside the CBI closure report, which gave the Delhi Congress leader a clean chit on the ground that there was no evidence against him. Tytler, his appeal, said: The trial court order is contrary to the Criminal Procedure Code. The method and mode of investigation by a probe agency is the absolute prerogative of the agency. It is not for the court to direct the agency about which witness should be examined by it. Seeking that the trial court order be quashed in the 29-year-old case, the plea said: The settled position of law is that a direction for investigation can be given only if an offence is prima facie found to have been committed or a persons involvement is prime facie established. But direction to investigate whether any person has committed an offence or not cannot be legally given. The trial courts order came on a plea filed by riot victim Lakhwinder Kaur, who sought a further probe into the killing of three people near Gurdwara Pul Bangash in old Delhi. Tytler is accused of instigating a mob that led to the murder of three men who had taken shelter at the gurdwara Nov 1, 1984. The mob attack was part of violence against Sikhs after the assassination of then prime minister Indira Gandhi Oct 31 that year. The trial court had also directed the CBI to examine witnesses and people who claimed to have information about the riots. The court, setting aside the magisterial court order that accepted the CBIs closure report, had said: The order of the trial court accepting the closure report is set aside. The CBI is directed to conduct further investigation in the light of aforesaid facts and to record the statements of witnesses, who, it had come to know during the investigation itself, are claiming/ shown/named to be witnesses of the incident. The probe agency had sought the dismissal of the victims plea, saying it had established that Tytler was not present at Gurudwara Pul Bangash on Nov 1, 1984. However, senior advocate H.S. Phoolka, appearing for Lakhwinder Kaur, had said that there was material which the CBI had ignored. Three men - Badal Singh, Thakur Singh and Gurcharan Singh - were killed near Gurudwara Pul Bangash, allegedly on Tytlers instigation. Tytlers role in the killing of three men was re-investigated by the CBI after a court in December 2007 refused to accept the closure report. The CBI claimed that Tytler was at Teen Murti House, the residence Indias first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, where Indira Gandhis body was kept, at the time of the Pul Bangash incident. It added that the agency had already re-investigated the case on the order of a trial court, but there was insufficient evidence against Tytler. Tytler was given a clean chit by the CBI April 2, 2009.

Revelations of US snooping a hearsay: Tewari

New Delhi Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari Tuesday cast doubts on the veracity of the revelations of US cyber snooping and said that the Indian government should be allowed to study the report and take a holistic view on the issue. I think we should allow government to formulate a holistic view. We will apply ourselves to whatever has been written in those communications so that the government can take a holistic view as to how best to respond to it, he added. Tewari said the matter does raise some issues which not only pertain to access of data in an authorized or an unauthorized manner but also to the larger questions of diplomatic immunity of communications and sanctity of the Geneva Convention protocols which are involved. A report published in the Guardian quoted US National Security Agency documents leaked by the whistleblower Edward Snowden revealing that the agencies were using a wide range of spying methods, including bugging of 38 embass
IANS

INTERNATIONAL
represented a fresh start to the January 2011 revolution. Later, the army was involved in a show of force, fanning out across Cairo and taking control of the capital, BBC said. Thousands of anti-Morsi protesters on the streets of Cairo celebrated, with fireworks lighting up the night sky. Meanwhile, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said what was happening in Egypt was the falling of political Islam. Whoever uses religion for political gains or in favour of one party without the other will fall in every place of the world, Assad said in an interview with Syrian state-run alThawra newspaper. You cant fool everyone at the same time, so what would you think about the Egyptian people who carry the civilization of thousands of years along with clear pan-Arabism thinking, Assad said. The president said that after an entire year, the picture has become clear and the performance of the Brotherhood has helped in revealing the lies that they have spelled at the beginning of the popular revolution in Egypt. The US said it was very concerned about the developments in Egypt. The State Department blamed Morsi for not doing enough to steer his country out of the current crisis. We do, of course, remain very concerned about what were seeing on the ground, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said at a press briefing. And we do realise, of course, that is an extremely tense and fast-moving situation in Egypt. Psaki said Morsis speech Tuesday night lacked significant steps to resolve Egypts worst crisis since the 2011 revolution that overthrew Hosni Mubarak. We have said that he must do more to be truly responsive and representative to the justified concern expressed by the Egyptian people, Psaki said. And unfortunately, that was not a part of what he talked about in his speech. Earlier, in a phone call to Morsi, US President Barack Obama encouraged his Egyptian counterpart to respond to concerns voiced by protesters across the country. Psaki said: We believe all sides need to take steps to talk with each other, to engage with each other, to lower the level of violence and call for an end to the violence. Egypts interior ministry also expressed complete support to the military that revealed a roadmap for running the country after the ouster of Morsi, Xinhua cited the ministry as saying in a statement. The interior ministry supports the roadmap with all the national, earnest and sincere steps that seeks the best interest of the nation and fulfill the will of the Egyptian people, the ministrys statement said. Police will support the brave armed forces backed by people to achieve the countrys stability and security, the statement said.
IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Egyptian army suspends constitution, apex India will remain an important strategic partner: US court chief to head nation
Cairo The Egyptian army chief has announced the suspension of the countrys constitution, which means President Mohammed Morsi is no longer in power and the head of the Supreme Constitutional Court will now be the temporary head of the country, media reports said. General Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi, flanked by religious and military leaders, made the announcement Wednesday. Adly Mansour, chief justice of the Supreme Constitutional Court, will take oath as temporary head of the country. Anti-Morsi protesters in Cairos Tahrir Square cheered in response to the army chiefs speech. The move followed four days of mass street protests against Morsi, and an ultimatum issued by the military which expired Wednesday. TV stations belonging to Morsis Muslim Brotherhood went off air at the end of the army chiefs speech. However, minutes later, a notice went up on Morsis Facebook page denouncing the army move as a military coup. BBC said Morsis current whereabouts were unknown, but an unverified tweet urged civilians and members of the military to uphold the law and the constitution. After Gen. Al-Sisis address, both Pope Tawadros II - the head of the Egyptian Coptic Church - and leading opposition figure Mohammed ElBaradei made short statements. ElBaradei said the new roadmap aimed for national reconciliation and

Washington Expressing satisfaction at Secretary of State John Kerrys first visit to New Delhi, the US has said its keen to carry forward the positive relationship with India which will continue to be an important strategic partner. Kerry did enjoy every aspect of his visit, State department spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters here Tuesday noting he had some very productive meetings as part of the India Strategic Dialogue. India has been and will continue to be an important strategic partner, she said adding, he is grateful he was able to spend a couple of days there and hes looking forward to continuing the positive relationship. On his return from his foreign trip, Kerry will be passing along to President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden and the White House

all about his discussions in New Delhi, Psaki said. Kerry also met Special Adviser to Pakistan Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Sartaj Aziz, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in Brunei, Psaki said. The two highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship and expressed the importance of continued close cooperation with Pakistan to facilitate an Afghan-led peace process. On the continued bombings in Pakistan, she said US stands with the people of Pakistan in condemning such senseless and inhumane acts. We offer our deepest condolences to the families of those killed and wish those injured a speedy recovery, Psaki said taking note of reports of numerous bombings over the weekend resulting the loss of many Pakistani lives.
IANS

Cuba sees bicycles as partial Brazil pushes for referendum on political reforms answer to transport woes
Brasilia The administration of President Dilma Rousseff Tuesday formally asked Brazils Congress to convene a referendum on a wide-ranging political overhaul. Rousseff, who proposed the plebiscite in response to protests that have rocked Brazil for nearly a month, wants voters to have input on how politics operates in the giant South American nation. The request for a referendum was delivered to Congress by Vice President Michel Temer and Justice Minister Jose Eduardo Cardozo, who stressed that lawmakers will have the final word on holding the plebiscite and the content of proposals put before the voters. Rousseffs government would like to see the public consulted on whether to keep the current campaign finance system - involving both public and private funding - or switch to a purely private or purely public mechanism. The president also proposes asking voters about the proportional representation regime, which distributes seats in Congress based on the total number votes received by the respective parties. Another question Rousseff wants posed concerns the practice of legislators casting secret votes on bills before Congress. The complaints of the hundreds of thousands who have turned out for protests in Brazils major cities in-

clude pervasive corruption and a lack of transparency in politics. Rousseff hopes to see a referendum take place as soon as possible and for new rules to be in place before the October 2014 presidential and legislative elections - a very ambitious timetable. The nationwide wave of protests was spurred by an increase in public transit fares in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, but the list of grievances quickly expanded to inadequate education and healthcare, politicians malfeasance and the huge sums Brazil is spending to host events such as the just-ended Confederations Cup soccer tournament and the 2014 World Cup.

Snowden drops bid for asylum in Russia

London Edward Snowden rescinded his application for political asylum in Russia and appeared to be running out of options as he remained stuck in the transit area at Moscows Sheremetyevo International Airport. The former CIA employee and government contractor who has provided documents exposing the US National Security Agencys massive surveillance of global telephonic and Internet communications arrived in Moscow June 23 from Hong Kong. Washington, which is charging Snowden under the 1917 Espionage Act, revoked his US passport, leaving him unable to board a commercial flight unless some other government provides him with travel documents. Though authorities in Moscow declined to speculate on why Snowden withdrew his asylum request, it seems likely he was deterred by Russian President Vladimir Putins statement that approval would be conditioned on the applicants willingness to forgo making any further revelations about the US government. The 29-year-old American has sought asylum from a score of countries. Ecuador, the nation that was expected to welcome Snowden, said it can only consider asylum requests from people who have reached Ecuadorian soil or one of the countrys diplomatic missions. It was at around this time last year that Quito extended asylum to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who remains holed up at the Ecuadorean Embassy in London because Britain refuses to grant him safe conduct to the airport. But the leaders of two nations that have yet to get an asylum request from Snowden have indicated they would be receptive to such a request. Yes, why not?, Bolivian President Evo Morales told a television inter-

Havana The Cuban government plans to reintroduce bicycles as a way to alleviate public transport problems, Vice President Marino Murillo said in comments cited Monday in the official media. Murillo, the head of the committee to implement the economic reforms put in place by the government of President Raul Castro, said during last Fridays Cabinet meeting that one way to promote cycling would be to provide bicycle replacement parts at a discount. Bicycles began appearing en masse on Cuban streets in the 1990s, and particularly in Havana it became an alternative way to deal with the acute transportation crisis caused by the drastic reduction in energy supplies

from the old Soviet Union. In 1991, 30,000 people were using bicycles in the Cuban capital, but by 1999 more than 700,000 Havana residents were moving around the city on bikes. Murillo discussed reintroducing bicycles when he presented a plan to restructure public transport in Havana, a situation he said had been unstable, insufficient and of low quality for years. In his analysis of the sector, he acknowledged the existence of faredodging by passengers and stealing the (fares) collected with impunity by some transit employees. The vice president said that the basic bus and railroad transport services will be maintained under the current state-run system. IANS

viewer who asked if La Paz would consider giving Snowden refuge. Venezuelas president, Nicolas Maduro, said last week that his government would almost certainly extend asylum to Snowden. He did not kill anyone and did not plant a bomb, Maduro said in Moscow, where both he and Morales were attending a summit of gas-exporting nations. What he did was tell a great truth in an effort to prevent wars. He deserves protection under international and humanitarian law. IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

INTERNATIONAL
It is vital for Afghanistan, and for its partners, that the country consolidate the important gains made over the past decade and move ahead with its democratic transition, the deputy United Nations chief said today, emphasizing in particular the need for free and fair elections next year. Next year will see Afghanistan hold a presidential election, as well as the withdrawal of the majority of allied international military forces, with national forces assuming full responsibility for security throughout the country. It is extremely important for the people of Afghanistan, but also for the United Nations and the many nations that have contributed to this transition, that the country does not fall back into the nightmares of war, the extreme poverty and violations of human rights that we saw earlier, Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson told a news conference at UN Headquarters. Briefing reporters on his five-day visit to Afghanistan, from which he returned earlier today, Mr. Eliasson said he conveyed to those that he met that the intention of the UN is to continue its partnership with Afghanistan, provided that this is the wish of the Government and the Afghan people. We will provide our support, where and when needed, following modalities that respect Afghan leadership and sovereignty, he stated. Mr. Eliasson said that next years presidential election, slated for 5 April, will be a make or break event, stressing the need for the polls to be free and fair, and enjoy wide participation. In that regard, he noted that it is vital that the Afghan parliament pass two pieces of legislation related to the future elections before the body concludes its current session in mid-July. The first of the two laws defines the structure and responsibilities of the countrys Independent Election Commission (IEC), while the second concerns the main electoral law governing all future Afghan elections. The Secretary-Generals Special

Obama takes cautious stand on crisis in Egypt Credible 2014 elections vital to Washington progress on Afghan transition Striking a cautious balance, President Barack Obama called Wednesday for a quick restoration of democracy in Egypt, but stopped short of condemning Egyptian militarys removal of President Mohamed Morsi. Saying he is deeply concerned about the removal of Morsi and suspension of Egypts constitution, Obama urged all parties to work together and called on the military to avoid any arbitrary arrests of President Morsi and his supporters. I now call on the Egyptian military to move quickly and responsibly to return full authority back to a democratically elected civilian government as soon as possible through an inclusive and transparent process, he said in a statement. The United States continues to believe firmly that the best foundation for lasting stability in Egypt is a democratic political order with participation from all sides and all political parties-secular and religious, civilian and military, Obama said. Obamas written statement followed a meeting of national security officials, including Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey and CIA Director John Brennan at the White House. The situation in Cairo created an uncomfortable policy scenario for a US government and president that champion democratic principles. Obama had refused to choose sides Representative for Afghanistan, Jn Kubi, also emphasized the importance of the manner in which next years presidential elections, as well as subsequent provincial council and parliamentary polls, are held. These elections the only legitimate way of democratic transfer of authority as prescribed by the Constitution will be the surest basis of internal legitimacy and future stability and are the necessary foundation for continued extraordinary international support to Afghanistans transition and transformation, he said in remarks today to a meeting of senior officials from Governments and international organizations in the Afghan capital, Kabul. The international community, including the UN, is resolved to continue supporting credible, inclusive and transparent elections held under Afghan leadership. We must remember, however, that the ultimate test for the elections is that the Afghan people and political forces accept their result as credible, said Mr. Kubi, who heads the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). He added that the polls should be based on mutually agreed rules of the game based on law, on sound technical preparations, credible institutions and credible election processes before and after the elections under the close scrutiny of domestic and international observers. There are expectations from both sides, noted Mr. Eliasson, who met with a wide range of governmental and non-governmental representatives during his visit, which also included a stop in the southern province of Kandahar. There are expectations from the Government that its international partners live up to their pledges of support and assistance, he said. But also, there are great expectations on the side of the international community that in fact Afghanistan lives up to its own obligations, primarily to have the election take place as planned in April next year, and to pass the electoral laws, he added.

during the Arab Spring protests in Cairo that toppled longtime leader Hosni Mubarak in 2011 and his administration adopted a similarly neutral stance ahead of the militarys decision Wednesday to remove Morsi, the news channel noted. But the influential New York Times editorially endorsed Obamas cautious stand saying fewer countries are more invested in Egypt than the United States, which relies on Cairo to uphold the 1979 peace treaty with Israel. Still, the Obama administration has little leverage over either Morsi or the opposition, which more often than not held Washington at arms length, it said noting, it has somewhat more influence with the military to whom it provides $1.3 billion in annual aid. Given this complex dynamic, President Obama has reacted with appropriate caution to Morsis ouster.

Frida Ghitis, a world affairs columnist for The Miami Herald and World Politics Review, disagreed saying, the 2011 Arab uprisings presented the United States with a historic opportunity to take a clear stand on the side of freedom and democracy and strengthen its own standing in the process. Incredibly, the Obama administration has blundered and stumbled, with a response marked by timidity and caution, she wrote. As a result, America appears weaker, less influential and less trusted, while the Arab Middle East continues to seethe with instability and violence. Washingtons intelligence think tank Stratfor felt the overthrow of Egypts moderate Islamist government undermines the international efforts to bring radical Islamists into the political mainstream in the wider Arab and Muslim world.
IANS

UN humanitarian official urges israel to lift crippling restrictions on gaza

A senior United Nations humanitarian official today urged the Israeli Government to lift restrictions on the free movement of people and goods in the Gaza Strip, as he met with Palestinian farmers and fishermen whose livelihoods have been ruined by the measures. James W. Rawley, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, learned firsthand the impact of the restrictions on Palestinian livelihoods as he led a visit of humanitarian agencies to Gaza. The cumulative impact of Israels restrictions, some of which have been in place for more than a decade, has devastated the livelihoods of families in Gaza, such as the farmers and fishermen we met today, said Mr. Rawley, who is also UN Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process. These restrictions affect the poorest the most; they impede development of a sustainable economy and increase dependency on aid, he added in a news release. The visit to Gaza comes as the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) released a new update in which it pointed out that the longstanding restrictions on the movement of people and goods to, from and within Gaza have continued to undermine the living conditions of 1.7 million people. Many of the current restrictions, which were originally imposed in the early 1990s, were intensified in June 2007, following the Hamas takeover of Gaza and the imposition of a blockade by Israel, it stated. The update added that some of them have been subsequently eased since 2010. These restrictions have reduced access to livelihoods, essential services and housing, disrupted fam-

ily life, and undermined the peoples hopes for a secure and prosperous future. Recent assessments have shown that 57 per cent of people in Gaza do not have money to buy sufficient food and 80 per cent of families receive some form of international aid. The economy is effectively kept alive through public expenditure, international aid and the illegal tunnel trade, in which thousands of workers, some of them children, continue to risk their lives every day, stated the news release. It went on to note that long-term restrictions on access to as much as 35 per cent of Gazas agricultural land and currently more than two-thirds of its fishing areas have resulted in estimated annual economic losses of over $76 million. Also, the continued ban on the transfer of produce and other goods from Gaza to its traditional markets in the West Bank and Israel has effectively prevented sustainable economic growth; less than one truckload of goods per day (on average) exited Gaza in the first half of 2013, compared to 38 during the first half of 2007 before the imposition of the

closure. While there has been some improvement in access to land and sea areas following the 21 November 2012 ceasefire agreement, only a full lifting of restrictions on access, as well as on exports and transfers of produce, will enable recovery of the fishing and agricultural sectors and the livelihoods of those who depend upon them, said Mr. Rawley. He also voiced concern that measures undertaken to enforce access restrictions on land and at sea continue to place Palestinian farmers, fishermen and other civilians at serious physical risk. The Humanitarian Coordinator said that while Israel has legitimate security concerns, any response to them, including limitations on the free movement of people and goods, must comply with international law. They must be proportionate to a specific threat and must not be punitive in nature. Palestinians in the Gaza Strip have the capacity to develop their communities and to build a sustainable local economy, he stated. Only the full lifting of these long-term restrictions will enable them to do so.

Pakistan trying to improve ties with India

Islamabad Pakistan is trying to improve its relations with India and it is in this context that the countrys strategic engagement with China must evolve. For a long time, the desire to contain India provided a common denominator for robust relations between the two countries. However, that reason is now melting away as Chinese and Indian leaderships have looked past their differences to forge trade ties in their quest for economic growth, an editorial in the News International said, a day ahead of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs China visit. Having suffered the damaging effects of a hostile neighbourhood, Pakistan, too, is trying to improve its relations with India. It is in this context that the countrys strategic engagement with China must evolve, it added. Nawaz Sharif will be in China July 4-8 - his first foreign visit since assuming office. Behind all the glitz and glamour of public rhetoric affirming the longstanding friendship, the two neighbours will discuss serious business. Pakistan has already expressed its desire to expand economic cooperation and serve as a trade and energy corridor for western China and the rest of the region. Nevertheless, China will be extremely cautious in making specific commitments. The changing global scenario, regional instability and the rise of China and India as strong regional contenders have had an impact on Pakistan-China relations, it noted. The daily went on to say that a dilapidated economy, an unwieldy energy crisis and a fraught security situation do not make us an attractive destination for foreign capital. Pakistan must sort out its internal problems before it can even hope to realise the true economic potential of its relations with China. China is also closely watching the situation in Afghanistan and efforts for negotiating with the Taliban. Differing concerns notwithstanding, Pakistan and China continue to enjoy strong ties. There is, however, always room for improvement, it added.

8
?

POLITICS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

QUOTE FIRE

Who said What on Food Security Bill?

Kamal Farooqi, Samajwadi Party What is the hurry for the Congress to bring in a kind of notification? Financially there would be a burden of about Rs 1.35 lakh crore on the government, from where that money will come? Even today they are not in a position to streamline the public distribution system (PDS).

D.Raja, CPI We want legislation, and the Food Security Bill that is before the Parliament in its present form with its present content is not acceptable to us.

Sushma Swaraj, BJP Monsoon Session is due in July itself and the government has recommended ordinance for National Food Security Bill. This is a deliberate attempt to denigrate Parliament. Why this hurry? Are they (Congress) going for early elections?

Nirmala Sitharaman, BJP They are not interested in having a debate because many facts or many gaps in this bill will be highlighted by all political parties and their own lack of clarity, their own lack of preparedness in presenting a comprehensive well-drafted bill will come out.

Ajay Maken, Congress The Oppositions failure to help passage of the Food Security Bill forced the government to go in for an ordinance.The Bill could see the light of the day due to concerted efforts of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi.

Shivanand Tiwari, JD (U) Government could have called for a special session or wait for Monsoon Session. There is no clarity what will be the burden on the state government and what percentage of people will benefit from food security? The government has not answered our concerns.

Brinda Karat, CPI(M) The bill had many flaws and now the government wants to push this bill through as an ordinance.A proper discussion in parliament is needed on the measure.

CAMP UPA

POLITICAL CAMP NEWS

Modi no Rambo, he is feku, says Digvijaya Singh
Panajis Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said that Gujarat Chief Minister was no Rambo but a feku (pretentious) and called Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrkar a fascist. Digvijaya Singh, who was recently appointed the All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary in-charge of the partys affairs in Goa, was speaking to reporters. Rambo is not the right name for him. He is a feku, Digvijaya Singh said when asked if the Congress was worried about the Gujarat chief ministers appointment as the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) face for the 2014 polls. Modi has been referred to as Rambo by a section of the media which said that he rescued 15,000 Gujaratis from disaster-hit Uttarakhand in a day like a Rambo. Digvijaya Singh said that Modi had been lying constantly about the progress made by Gujarat, and insisted that most of Modis claims were false. Out of all those MoU (memorandums of understanding) which were signed by the Gujarat government with industries as part of the Vibrant Gujarat campaign, barely 10 per cent have come through, Digvijaya Singh said. He also said that the Gujarat government did not rank among the top three Indian states when it came to either social or economic indices.Modis prowess, he said, was only a hype created by the media. Modi is a factor for the media. He is not even a factor for us, Singh said, chiding the media about being obsessed with the Modi factor. Commenting on the BJP-led Goa government and Parrikars governance, Digvijaya Singh said the latter was showing fascist tendencies already after a year in power.

CAMP NDA

Jharkhand may soon have JMM-led government

Ranchi Jharkhand may get a government led by the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and supported by the Congress and other parties after presidents rule in the state ends July 18, a senior JMM leader said. Talks with Congress are going on in positive direction and the state may soon have a new government led by our party, a JMM leader told. Senior Congress leader Shakeel Ahmad, Congresss Jharkhand in-charge B.K. Hariprasad and other party leaders met JMM chief Shibu Soren here. Everything will be cleared before July 18, Ahmad said. Earlier, former deputy chief minister and son of JMM chief Hemant Soren met the Congress leaders . Sources in the Congress said the final decision would be taken by the partys central leadership. Hemant Soren is likely to meet senior Congress leaders in New Delhi. According to the sources, consultations between JMM and Congress leaders are taking place largely on government formation, seat sharing in the forthcoming Lok Sabha and state assembly polls.The sources said the Congress is seeking to contest at least 11 of the 14 Lok Sabha seats in the state.However, it is not yet clear whether the Congress will join the government or extend support from outside. The JMM has 18 legislators in in the 82-member Jharkhand assembly. The 28-month Bharatiya Janata Party-led Arjun Munda government fell Jan 8 after the JMM withdrew support. On Jan 8 Munda cabinet recommended dissolution of the assembly. Jharkhand was put under presidents rule on Jan 18.

Kolkata West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the peoples privacy was in jeopardy with the central government developing the Centralised Monitoring System (CMS), an all-encompassing surveillance mechanism. The UPA-II government is developing a system called Centralised Monitoring System (CMS) by C-DoT that will

Mamata questions UPAs monitoring system

enable the government and its agencies unfettered access in realtime to any phone conversation, SMS, fax, website visit and social media usage, Banerjee said on Facebook, quoting a media report about the CMS. Experts feel that these capabilities could be as lethal and intrusive as the highly controversial PRISM project. Privacy of our countrymen would soon be at stake at the hands of the UPA, she said. Stating that the centre has plans to launch the system by March 2014 in 12 states, Banerjee questioned the motive behind it. Why is the UPA government developing an autocratic system of surveillance and monitoring to secure interception of telephonic conversation in all forms? Will it be targeted to silence the opposition, politicians and others? Who will authorise

or decide on selection of targets? she said. Wont this intrusion make our constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) a mockery, asked the Trinamool Congress chief. Calling the CMS draconian, Banerjee accused the centre of impropriety without consulting political parties or discussing the CMS in parliament.

Protests erupt in Andhra Pradesh over Telangana issue

Hyderabad With the Congress party hinting at an early decision on the Telangana issue, protests began in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra regions of Andhra Pradesh, also called Seemandhra, opposing any move to divide the state Samaikhya Andhra or the United Andhra Joint Action Committee (JAC) staged protests in Kadapa and Anantapur districts of the Rayalaseema region, demanding that the state be kept united. Students took out a rally in Kadapa. They tried to lay siege to the district collectors office. The protestors raised slogans against political leaders for keeping silent over the centres proposed in Anantapur, the JAC organised a similar protest, demanding that the central government not divide the state. Interestingly, the protests began a day after a minister from the region, T.G. Venkatesh said unlike in the past there was no public support to their campaign for keeping the state united. In Hyderabad, Rayalaseema Parirakshana Samiti (RPS) founder Byreddy Rajasekhar Reddy began 52-hour hunger strike, demanding separate statehood for Rayalaseema region. Byreddy alleged that though Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Leader of Opposition N. Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress party leader Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy all come from Rayalaseema, nobody was doing anything for the future of the region. The Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC), which is spearheading the movement for separate Telangana state, Thursday held a round-table meeting in New Delhi to garner support of various national and regional political parties. The meeting passed a resolution, demanding the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government abide by Dec 9, 2009, statement that the process for formation of the Telangana state would be initiated.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

POLITICS
New Delhi The Congress thinks the political discourse in the country has shifted from coffee shops and parks to social media and hence vice president Rahul Gandhi wants the party to increasingly communicate to the people through platforms favoured by the young like Facebook, Twitter and blogs ahead of the 2014 general election, says newly-appointed communication department chairman Ajay Maken. According to Maken, the challenge before the 127-year-old Congress party is to understand that the political discourse in the country has shifted from coffee shops and among morning walkers in neighbourhood parks to social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and blogs which are popular among the young. We have to use all the tools of communication, be it print, television or digital media to express ourselves, Maken told IANS in an interview. That is why Rahul Gandhi rechristened the media department as the communication department, he said. Agreeing he would have to deal with a lot of negative propaganda against the party, Maken said there were enough positives under the top

BJP leaders to discuss 2014 poll strategy

New Delhi The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) parliamentary board, which meets here later Thursday, is expected to discuss the partys strategy and core team for the 2014 general elections, a senior BJP leader said. A sharp strategy for the 2014 polls would be the main focus of the meet, BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said ahead of the meet. Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who was last month anointed as the chief of BJPs poll campaign committee, is likely to decide his team for the polls. Modi, who arrived in the national capital for the meeting Thursday morning, will also hold discussions with the general secretaries of the party.

Rahuls Congress to reach out to young, focus on social media: Ajay Maken
Congress leadership, including party chief Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Rahul Gandhi himself. The need is to arm the party leaders and workers with correct information. We want informed public debates, he said. As part of that, Maken said, greater synergy between the responses of various Congress leaders on any given issue was being attempted. You will see a lot of synergy in the responses of our spokespersons, he said. Makens appointment comes against the backdrop of charges of corruption and policy paralysis against the United Progressive Alliance government for the past two years. Stating there was no perception management deficit either in the party and the government, Maken said many of the decisions taken during the UPA 1 and II rule could not be shared with the people. This led to a wrong perception of policy paralysis, he said. The people, he said, will not agree that the Bharatiya Janata Party has a clean slate. They will remember that the BJP lost governments in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka due to corruption charges, said

Opposition sheds crocodile tears on propriety: Manish Tewari

The meet comes a day after the Central Bureau of Investigation filed its first charge sheet on the encounter in which Ishrat Jahan and three others were killed by Gujarat Police nine years ago. Though Modi or any of his key ministers were not named in the charge sheet, the Gujarat government has been blamed for backing the encounter.

New Delhi As the opposition cornered the government over the the food security ordinance, union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Manish Tewari Thursday said only crocodile tears were being shed over parliamentary propriety. The principal opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Left parties and several other parties have raised objections to the governments move to bring in an ordinance on the food security bill without facing parliament. Tewari said that even though the opposition was accusing the government of demeaning parliament, it had not respected the institution either and had repeatedly forced adjournments and disrupted proceedings. It is amusing that the ones who are shedding crocodile tears on parliamentary propriety are also the ones

Maken while crediting the Congress for bringing in the pro-transparency Right to Information Act. Maken, who resigned as a cabinet minister to hold the key party post, denied there was any communication gap between the party and the government. Addressing a party meet November 4, 2012, Sonia Gandhi had urged the ministers to work in tandem with the state units and focus on implementing the partys poll promises in the run up to the 2014 battle. The party and the government are inseparable. This is not a challenge, Maken said. The Congress, he said, believes in developing younger leadership, contrary to perception. A younger AICC team, which has former members of the National Students Union of India and the Youth Congress, has been put in place. Many office-bearers have a background in electoral politics, Maken told. The Congress recently revamped the party organisation, bringing in many younger leaders as secretaries to gear up for the coming electoral challenges, including five assembly polls this year and the big battle of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. IANS

who have acquired a PhD in disruptionitis (sic), Tewari told reporters here. The opposition needs to reflect as to the manner in which they have treated parliament, the scant respect they have displayed for parliamentary institutions, parliamentary traditions, and the functioning of parliament. Dont we all recall the November session of 2010, which was wiped out, dont we recall the monsoon session of last year, he asked.

Woman accuses SP leader of seeking women for sex

Lucknow A woman has submitted a CD alongwith a formal complaint to an official in Uttar Pradeshs Auraiyya district claiming that a Samajwadi Party (SP) leader, who has the status of a minister, had sought young women for sex. Madhu Pandey, a former leader of the ruling party, has submitted the complaint to Auraiyya District Magistrate S. Rajalingam along with the CD which has a taped telephonic conversation between her and the SP leader who is chairman of a state department and holds the rank of a state minister. District Magistrate Aurayyia confirmed to IANS of having received the audio CD with a complaint from Pandey. I have received the CD and the complaint and have forwarded it to the police with instructions to probe the matter, Rajalingam said. In the conversation which lasts over two minutes, the party leader allegedly tells Madhu Pandey to come over but not without preparations and goes on to say that the maal should be khara (the consignment should be good). Madhu tells him that he need not be tense as the thing she is bringing will not disappoint him. She requests the functionary, known for his proximity to the SP leadership, to get her appointed as secretary or

vice president of the state executive. To this, Yadav says that she was not well educated for the job and allegedly directs the woman to come to Lucknow prepared and to come with a woman of his choice. The SP leader asks Pandey not to come with a woman but with a chooza (chicken). Pandey says she does not understand what a chooza is and asks the leader to elaborate, to which he says chooza mane 19 se 20 saal ke beech ki (chicken means a girl aged between 19 and 20 years). When contacted, Pandey repeated her charges and said that the SP leader had been victimizing her for a long time and seeking favours ranging from sex to money and supplying women. She admitted that she had yielded to the demands of the powerful leader to get a job for her husband. The taped telephonic conversation, she said, was of October 2012. When asked on why the delay in bringing the matter, she said she was doing so after giving up hope of justice by party leaders, specially after being expelled from the party June 1. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesman Vijay Bahadur Pathak said the matter was very serious and the accused should be immediately sacked and a probe ordered.
IANS

New Delhi Dayalu Ammal, wife of DMK chief and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M. Karunanidhi, Tuesday moved the Delhi High Court against the trial court order dismissing her plea for exemption from appearing as a prosecution witness in the 2G case. The 82-year-old Dayalu Ammal moved the Delhi High Court against the trial courts May 31 order, and sought the courts direction to constitute a medical board which would then furnish a report on her fitness to appear in the court. Senior advocate Sudhir Nandrajog, appearing for her, told the court that she was diagnosed with cognitive and behavioural abnormalities in June last year and that she is progressively and gradually losing recognition of even her near and dear ones. Nandrajog also argued before Justice Veena Birbal that due to her physical and mental condition, Dayalu Ammal is prone to abrasive behaviour, clumsy habits with sudden hitting or punching people, inappropriate talk and action, and inability to take care of day-to-day activities. The lawyer submitted that the court should seek a report from the medical board and if it gives a fitness report, Dayalu Ammal has no objection in appearing as a witness. The court, reacting to the submission, said: Why cant you get yourself (Ammal) examined from a government hospital and produce a report before the court? This is to stall the proceedings. You appear before the trial court. In case you dont understand the questionnaires of the court, then make a submission before the trial court for such an order. It asked the CBI to explain it under what circumstances and on which plea of the CBI had the Supreme IANS Court passed this order.

2G case: Dayalu Election panel notifies Bengal panchayat polls Ammal seeks July, the Mamata Banerjee led West exemption from Kolkata In accordance with the Supreme Bengal government subsequently Courts directive, the State Election had approached the apex court seekappearance Commission (SEC) Wednesday notified the West Bengal panchayat polls scheduled to be held July 11, 15, 19, 22 and 25. As per the courts order, we notified the panchayat polls today (Wednesday). The central security forces required for conducting the polls will start arriving in the state from July 8, commission Secretary Tapas Roy said. The apex court June 28 directed the polls be held in five phases with the deployment of both state and central security forces. With polls slated during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan which is likely to begin in the second week of

Congress warns Beni Prasad for ridiculing Mulayam

New Delhi Miffed over union minister Beni Prasad Vermas derogatory remark against Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, the Congress warned him saying this was not the partys culture. The Congress leadership has taken his statement very seriously. He has been told that this is not the Congress culture, Congress general secretary in charge of Uttar Pradesh Madhusudan Mistry told reporters. Beni Prasad had said Tuesday that the SP chief was not even fit for the job of a sweeper in the prime ministers office, let alone occupying the high office. Mistry said that he met Beni Prasad, who has regretted his remark. A week ago, Beni Prasad had embarrassed the Congress, saying its leaders had worked as the B team of the SP in Uttar Pradesh during the 2012 assembly polls. The Congress had then downplayed the statement and termed it an internal affair of the party while saying

ing revision in the poll schedule. Dismissing the plea that the holding of the polls in the month of Ramadan could adversely affect the participation of one-third of the states Muslim population, the apex court Tuesday refused to reschedule the polls. In pursuance of the courts order, the Banerjee government Tuesday notified the polls paving the way for the SEC to issue the poll notification. Though the commission did not specify the dates for the vote count, officials said the process of elections will be completed by Aug 3. The SEC has called a meeting of all major political parties contesting polls Saturday.

the matter would be sorted out soon. Beni Prasad, who left the SP to join the Congress in 2009, has embarrassed the party leadership many times in the past due to his controversial remarks. Mistry, who delivered Karnataka to the Congress, was given the charge of Uttar Pradesh by party vice president Rahul Gandhi in the latest reIANS shuffle last month.

10

REGION

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Killings lengthen distance between Kashmir, rest of India: Omar

Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Monday said incidents like the killing of two youth lengthen the distance between the state and the rest of the country which was intended to be shortened by the railway tunnel across the Pir Panjal range. In an emotional statement to the media, Abdullah expressed grief over the death of two youngsters, calling it a gruesome incident that was eminently avoidable and needless. The deaths of Tariq Ahmad Laharwal and Irfan Ahmad Ganaie two youngsters at the peak of their lives and with so much to look forward to - are tragic. They lengthen the symbolic shortening of the emotional distance, made possible by the railway tunnel, between Kashmiris and the country. This is besides the fact that, by itself, life is sacred - a precious gift from the Almighty. Losing it to needless violence is the ultimate tragedy and a loss that is irreparable.... He said he had no words to express his grief and outrage.

Teachers scam: Chautalas interim bail extended

The court perused the status report filed by the CBI on the present health condition of Chautala and also the medical documents Chautala filed while extending his interim bail. Justice Mridul asked him to obtain an elaborate report on his health condition from the hospital and furnish it before the court in the next ten days. Filing the plea, Chautala said that his pacemaker implantation was done on June 3, and the doctor advised regular check-ups for three months. Advocate U.U. Lalit, appearing for Chautala, submitted to the court: He continues to be in a fragile state of health, besides being severely handicapped by various disabilities. He requires constant extra care during the period of three months and regular follow-up. He also needs a clean, stress-free environment. CBI counsel Rajdeepa Behura sought that the court examine the private hospitals report through a medical board. However, the court did not pass any such order, and accepted the CBIs status report and the hospitals medical report. Besides the heart ailment, 78-yearold Chautala also suffers from other age-related problems. A trial court in the capital sentenced Chautala, his son Ajay Chautala and eight others to 10 years in jail. One convict was sentenced to five years in jail, while 45 others were each handed out four-year jail terms. Chautala and the other accused were found guilty of illegally recruiting 3,206 junior basic trained teachers in IANS Haryana in 2000.

My heart beats with the grief-stricken hearts of the bereaved families. If I could bring back Tariq and Irfan, I would leave no stone unturned to do so but alas, no human being has that power, he said. Noting his words are not meant as rhetoric to heal wounds that will never get healed but are an attempt to shoulder and bear the grief of the bereaved families and console them, AQbdullah said he lauded the youths families and communities for

Four more Haryana districts to join NCR

Gurgaon The National Capital Region (NCR) is set to expand with the inclusion of four more districts in Haryana: Mahendragarh, Bhiwani, Jind and Karnal. The NCR Planning Board Monday gave the approval, an official spokesperson said. Union Urban Development Minister Kamal Nath said the board had also approved the inclusion of Bharatpur district in Rajasthan in the NCR. The meeting was attended by Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Lt. Governor of Delhi Tejender Khanna, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Union Housing Minister Girija Vyas among others. The Asian Development Bank has approved six more road projects for Haryana. Kamal Nath called for a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) to reduce travel time within the NCR, which includes the whole of Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana. He was speaking at the 33rd meeting of the NCR Planning Board in New Delhi. An NCR Transport Corp which is to be formed will implement RRTS projects of Delhi-Panipat (111 km), Delhi-Alwar (180 km) and DelhiMeerut (90 km). The share of all the four States - Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan - in the corporations equity would be 12.5 percent each. Kamal Nath said work on the three corridors would start soon and be completed by 2016. The NCR Planning Board will contribute Rs.200 crore, to begin with. Hooda said the Haryana sub-region had checked migration to Delhi and attracted reverse migration. Gurgaon city had grown 293 percent in the last decade, registering the highest growth rate in the region, he IANS said.

Jammu and Kashmir to get Rs.710 crore for rural roads

maintaining a sense of proportion and calm in the face of adversity and a tense situation and not allowing their sentiments and emotions to be taken advantage of and exploited. Two people were killed in Markundal village in north Kashmirs Bandipora district, some 40 km from here, Sunday allegedly in firing by security forces. The army has ordered an investigation into the incident and assured action against anybody found IANS guilty.

New Delhi The union cabinet gave a special sanction of Rs.710 crore to build roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in the border state of Jammu and Kashmir, a statement said. According to the statement, the money, to be given in two tranches, will be used to meet the cost of land acquisition and cover compensatory afforestation, private land and structures, and will enable the state to expedite completion of the PMGSY projects. The cabinet also approved the change in the nomenclature Hill States un-

der the PMGSY to Special Category States to include Assam, on a par with other northeastern states. This would increase the central share from 75 percent to 90 percent in Assam. The PMGSY was launched in 2000 with the objective of providing allweather connectivity to all unconnected habitations with a population of 500 persons or more, desert areas, tribal areas and 82 selected tribal and backward districts, as identified under the Integrated Action Plan (IAP) being implemented in Maoist-affected areas.

New Delhi The Delhi High Court extended till July 22 the interim bail of Haryanas former chief minister Om Prakash Chautala, who has been sentenced to 10 years in jail for irregularities in appointment of teachers in 2000. Justice Siddharth Mridul extended Chautalas interim bail till July 22 on medical grounds. Chautala, who heads the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), moved the court for extension of his interim bail, which expires July 4. He was granted interim bail May 21 for pacemaker implant surgery at Gurgaons Medanta Medicity Hospital.

10 Gurgaon students injured as bus hits autorickshaw

Gurgaon At least 10 school students were injured when a Haryana Roadways bus hit an autorickshaw that overturned here on Old Delhi Road, police said. About a dozen students from Kendriya Vidyalaya were travelling in the autorickshaw at the time of the accident in sector 10A near Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited main exchange, police said. The students were returning from school to their homes in Feroze Gandhi Colony, said a police official. Two students, including one from Class 9, were admitted to hospital. Others were discharged after being given first aid, he said.

After Punjab, Haryana also wants higher MSP on paddy, cotton

Chandigarh After Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal criticised the union government for the inadequate hike in the minimum support price (MSP) of paddy and cotton, Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda too sought either a higher MSP or a bonus for farmers. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Hooda asked that the MSP of paddy be increased by at least Rs.200 per quintal, and of maize by Rs.150 per quintal. He asked that the MSP of bajra and cotton be raised by Rs.100 per quintal, so farmers get remunerative prices, a state government spokesman said here Sunday. The Haryana chief minister, in the letter, said that keeping in view the larger interest of the farming community, the MSP should be raised, as the cost of cultivation of these crops had increased considerably. Drawing the prime ministers attention to the meagre increase in the MSP of paddy by the central government, Hooda said: The Government of India has enhanced the MSP of paddy by Rs.60 per quintal over last years MSP and fixed it

at Rs.1,310 per quintal for Kharif marketing season 2013-14. The MSP announced is not adequate to cover even the cost of cultivation of paddy. Badal had Friday slammed the central government for the meagre hike in paddy MSP, saying it was playing a cruel joke on the hard-working farmers. Hooda said the cost of cultivation of paddy in Haryana is Rs.1,757 per quintal and the state had recommended that the centre fix Rs.1,850 per quintal as MSP this year.

This meagre increase is highly inadequate and will discourage the farming community, Hooda said. Punjab and Haryana contribute over 70 percent of the total food grains to the national kitty. He said the MSP of cotton, maize and bajra should also be enhanced. India is giving emphasis on crop diversification in the original green revolution states. The MSP which has been announced by the Government of India for maize at Rs.1,310 per quintal will not encourage the farmers to diversify from paddy and

sugarcane crops to maize crop. The cost of cultivation of maize in our state is Rs.1,654 per quintal and the state government had recommended Rs.1,800 per quintal as MSP for maize, Hooda said in his letter. He said that for cotton, which is grown on about six lakh hectares in Haryana, the MSP should be at least Rs.4,200 per quintal, against the Rs.3,700 announced by the centre. The cost of cultivation of cotton comes to Rs.3,783 per quintal, Hooda said.
IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

CAMPUS

11 No new B.Ed. colleges in Punjab till state govt issues NOC

Cutoffs for DU colleges admissions show only slight drop

New Delhi Delhi Universitys third cutoff for admission to four-year undergraduate courses remains above 90 percent with a mere drop of 0.25-1 percent against the second cutoff list announced earlier. The Economics and Commerce courses in most Delhi University colleges saw a drop of just 0.75 percent in the third cutoff list announced late Wednesday. It is the highest in Ramjas College. But in other colleges, the drop is not more than 0.25 percent and the cutoff still averages 96-97 percent. Shri Ram College for Commerce (SRCC) has closed admissions for undergraduate programmes in commerce and economics for general and other backward classes (OBC) categories. The seats have been filled for these two courses for both general and other backward classes (OBC), so there would be no cutoff list after this one, said SRCC principal P.C. Jain. For a few courses, there has been no change in the third cutoff list in some colleges. Such programmes include History honours at Ramjas Collage and Bachelor of Science (Botany) at Hindu college. This year, admissions to undergraduate programmes in some colleges closed earlier than expected, although the cutoff percentage was not pegged low. We were very cautious while declaring the cutoff. We did not want

Sanskrit to get makeover in Personal stylist to help Delhi University you shop Tripura bans study centres online of private universities
New Delhi To change the perception of Sanskrit as just an ancient language, Delhi Universitys Sanskrit department will introduce courses like Indian scientific heritage, theatre, self-management and dramatics under the new four-year undergraduate programme (FYUP). We want to change the perception among the people about Sanskrit. We want to create a wider horizon among students and make the subject relevant in the modern world, Mithilesh Chaturvedi, head of the Sanskrit department at Delhi University, told. The courses will be part of Discipline 1, compulsory subjects that a student undertaking honours in Sanskrit would study under FYUP. Students undertaking Sanskrit honours will also learn climatology, ayurveda, ecology, archaeology and yoga. Under the new four-year programme we have introduced Indian epigraphy, palaeography and chronology that is directly related to modern archaeology, said P.K. Panda, head of the Sanskrit department at Ramjas College. Vedic mathematics would help students appearing for competitive exams with the several shortcut methods that would be taught, said Satyamurti, Sanskrit professor in Delhi University. Delhi University has received approximately 13,000 OMR (optical mark registration) forms for Sanskrit for this academic year. The university introduced the fouryear undergraduate programme this academic session. Under the new programme, students will be required to study 11 foundation courses in the first two years with the main subjects under Discipline 1, 2 and the applied courses. Agartala The Tripura government has decided to reject degree and diploma certificates issued by study centres of private universities and educational institutions of other states, officials here said The Tripura government has also banned operation of 35 off-campus study centres and institutions of private universities and educational institutions of other states in Tripura. The headquarters of these study centres and institutions of private universities and educational institutions are in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Sikkim and Nagaland. Following the observation of the Supreme Court and direction of the UGC (University Grants Commission), the Tripura government has decided to reject degree and diploma certificates issued by study centres of private institutions of other states, higher education department Secretary Kishore Ambuly told reporters. He said: The Tripura government has nothing to do in this case. The apex courts observation is sacrosanct and has to be complied with. During the

an overflow of students by declaring lower cutoffs, P. Hemalatha Reddy, principal of Sri Venkateswara College, told.Ram Lal Anand and Janki Devi Memorial College are some other colleges that have closed admissions for humanities courses for general candidates. Hindu College has not come up with a third cutoff list for Mathematics, Philosophy, Sanskrit and Sociology courses.For Hans Raj Colleges Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) programme in computer science, the

cutoff remains fixed at 99 percent for students with non-science background since the announcement of the first cutoff. The fourth cutoff list in DU is expected to be released July 8. The university introduced the fouryear undergraduate programme this academic session. Under the new programme, students will be required to study 11 foundation courses in the first two years with the main subjects under Discipline I,II and the applied courses.

Patiala The Affiliation to around 30 upcoming B.Ed Colleges would not be granted till Punjab government issues NOC (No Objection Certificate) to these colleges. On the other hand, the affiliation process of around 30 degree colleges for session 2013-14 would be completed within a week. This was said by Dr Jamshid Ali Khan, Dean, College Development Council, Punjabi University, Patiala while replying the queries of media during inauguration of Aryans Admission cum Job Fair II at Aryans Group of Colleges, village Nepra, Chandigarh-Patiala Higway, near Chandigarh. The event was presided over by Dr Anshu Kataria, Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges. On the other hand, the admission pro-

cess of B.Ed course in Punjab has already been started. As Punjab Govt. has not issued any NOC, it seems that no B.Ed College will come up in Punjab in the session 2013-14. Dr Khan also mentioned that from 2013-14, Punjabi university has added new concept of single faculty college. Under this land requirement has been reduced to 1.6 acre from 5 acre. But for Degree College land requirement would remain to 5 acre only. Under single faculty college Courses under one faculty can be started. Dr Khan added that now the Punjabi University would be very particular before giving affiliation. The focus would be on qualitative expansion not on quantitative expansion.

IGNOU extends admission date for July session

New Delhi The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has extended the last date for admission to its various academic programmes till July 8, a statement said. The revised dates for the July session are July 8 without late fee and July 31 with late fee for various academic programmes, the statement

said. Earlier, the last date to submit applications at the varsitys regional centres was July 1. IGNOU is the worlds largest open university system with a pan-India and international reach with flexible entry qualifications and a wide range of academic programmes at affordable costs, the varsity said.

New Delhi Shopaholics couldnt have asked for more! Shop online with the help of your personal stylist at voonik. com. You not only can choose from a wide-range of affordable and stylish apparels and accessories including short dresses, casual Tees, corporate and ethnic wear, mens wear, jewellery, cosmetics and accessories, but would also get a personal fashion guide to help you shop. Chennai-based online portal voonik.com offers the service where personal stylists handpick suitable outfits for the customers, based on their body type and style preferences. Weve created this extensive platform, which caters to the growing need for fashion and lifestyle. Voonik provides your own personal stylist-cumshopping assistant to make you dress well within your budget, said Sujayath Ali, co-founder and CEO. All online and completely free. We are imagining how shopping will happen after 20 years and are trying to create the future now, he added

past decade, there has been a mushrooming of private universities and their study centres across the country and most of these private universities and their study centres do not comply with the rules and criteria set by the University Grants Commission. Accompanied by Law Secretary Datamohan Jamatia and director of Higher Education Department Bipradas Palit, Ambuly said that degree and diploma certificates obtained through the offcampus study centres and institutions of private universities and educational institutions of other states would be recognised as valid after March 30, 2011. The official said that these UGC instructions are applicable for all states and union territories across the country. The apex court made its observation regarding the off-campus study centres in 2009 and 2011. Thousands of people had enrolled in these study centres and institutions, in the hope of obtaining certificates that would enable them to get government jobs.

12

No differences among ministers on Jet-Etihad deal: PMO

New Delhi Amid raging controversy over the Rs.2,000 crore deal between Jet Airways and Abu Dhabi-based carrier Etihad, the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) Tuesday said there are no differences among ministers on the issue and the proposal would be cleared as per usual practice. This is a matter between private parties which needs to be approved by the concerned agencies as per the policies and laws in place, the PMO said in a statement. This is not an agreement between governments and there is no question either backtracking from or disowning this proposal as this is not an agreement with the government, it said. The PMO said concerned departments and agencies would look into the proposal and would deal with it as per usual practice. Some parliamentarians and political parties, including the main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have voiced opposition to the deal and sought an explanation from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. It seems now there is something wrong in this deal as well. We are not against FDI in aviation, but if there is a scam in FDI, we will oppose it, BJP spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain said. The way the civil aviation minister is pointing towards the PMO and cabinet, the prime minister should clear the situation in front of the country, he said. The BJP leader compared it with the alleged scandal in allocation of coal blocks. A parliamentary standing committee headed by Communist Party of India-Marxist MP Sitaram Yechury first raised objection to the deal. After that, senior MPs Jaswant Singh and Dinesh Trivedi and Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy also wrote letters to the prime minister over the deal. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad has agreed to buy 24 percent stake in Jet Airways. The deal is expected to garner around Rs.2,058 crore ($379 million) for Jet Airways, which, the company said, will enable it to service its debts and provide passengers with better connectivity. Earlier Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh defended deal saying the investment is important for India and opposition to the pact is politically motivated. Those opposing the deal are long on politics and short on facts, Ajit Singh told reporters when asked about the widespread opposition to the deal. It is such an important deal, the first big deal in civil aviation ministry. In terms of FDI, it is bigger than any other deal this year. There are so many dimensions to it, Ajit Singh said. The PMO also clarified that there was no question of any U-turn on the air service agreement between

COVER STORY
New Delhi Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh defended the nearly Rs.2,000 crore deal between Jet Airways and Abu Dhabi-based carrier Etihad, saying the investment is important for India and opposition to the pact is politically motivated. Those opposing the deal are long on politics and short on facts, Ajit Singh told reporters when asked about the widespread opposition to the deal. It is such an important deal, the first big deal in civil aviation ministry. In terms of FDI, it is bigger than any other deal this year. There are so many dimensions to it, Ajit Singh said. Some parliamentarians and political parties, including the main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), have voiced opposition to the deal and sought explanations from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. It seems now there is something wrong in this deal as well. We are not against FDI in aviation, but if there is a scam in FDI, we will oppose it, BJP spokesperson Syed Shahnawaz Hussain said. The way the civil aviation minister is pointing towards the PMO and cabinet, the prime minister should

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Ajit Singh defends Jet-Etihad deal

India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Prime Minister is neither washing his hands off the Bilateral Air Services Agreement nor is the Prime Ministers Office trying to do a Uturn on the issue now, the statement said. On reported disagreements among various ministries on the India-UAE air services agreements, the PMO said: The allegations in some media are factually incorrect and baseless. There is absolutely no disagreement within the government or between the ministers and the Prime Minister on the matter, it added.

clear the situation in front of the country, he said. The BJP leader compared it with the alleged scandal in allocation of coal blocks. A parliamentary standing committee headed by Communist Party of India-Marxist MP Sitaram Yechury first raised objection to the deal. After that, senior MPs Jaswant Singh and Dinesh Trivedi and Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy also wrote letters to the prime minister over the deal. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad has agreed to buy 24 percent stake in Jet Airways. The deal is expected to garner around Rs.2,058 crore ($379 million) for Jet Airways, which, the company said, will enable it to service its debts and provide passengers with better connectivity.
IANS

The sale of 24 percent stake in Jet Airways to the Abu Dhabibased Etihad Airways for around Rs.2,000 crore ($379 million) may be good for the company but bad for the industry in India. The deal envisages infusion of investment in Jet Airways by Etihad of Abu Dhabi. While Jet Airways may enjoy a turn of fortune on account of capital infusion, the aviation sector in India may see a downside on account of skewed control of bilateral rights. Etihad may come to enjoy dominant position by utilizing the quota of Jet Airways. Experts say that the deal will bring revenue growth and cost savings for both the companies. Both companies are going to gain

Whats the Deal?, A view from industry

from this strategic deal. Jet will get more financial options and a reliable international partner, while Etihad will get a foothold in India, said Rajiv Chib, associate director, PricewaterhouseCoopers. According to Chib, the deal also demonstrated the interest international passenger carriers are taking in Indian domestic airlines, as they see future growth in the sector. This (deal) shows that foreign airlines are interested, as they see future growth in this sector. I do expect another major deal in this area happening by the year-end, Chib said. However, the deal, which also entails a $600 million commitment from Etihad Airways, still needs to be ratified at an extraordinary meeting of Jets shareholders. Sharan Lillaney, aviation analyst at broking firm Angel Broking, told IANS that the deal will bring in fresh funding opportunities for Jet Airways, which has an estimated debt of around Rs.12,000 crore. Passengers too are bound to benefit from the better connectivity options offered by the Jet-Etihad network. It is a very positive move. There were negotiations going on for a long time. It will provide Jet with much needed financing options and a major international partner. Passengers can look forward to using the networks of both airlines for international and domestic travel, Lillaney said. Some industry players, however, were cautious in their response to the development. Not wishing to be named, some players expressed apprehension that the move may drive away transit passengers from Indian airports, impacting their own plans of operating in global hubs located in India. Jet, on its part, said in a statement that both the airlines will expand existing operations and introduce new routes between India and Abu Dhabi, establishing it as a gulf gateway. Jet said the move would not adversely impact domestic airports, as it would continue to develop Delhi and Mumbai airports as its primary home hubs, connecting them to Asian, European and other regions. Int e r e s t i n g l y, the announcement of the sale of stakes by Jet comes just a day after India and the UAE began negotiations to enhance bilateral air traffic rights on the India-Abu Dhabi sector. Indian passenger carriers, especially Jet Airways, have sought an exponential increase in seat capacity on the sector. The existing Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) entitles Indiabased airlines to offer 13,300 seats per week on the India-Abu Dhabi route. There is demand in this sector and it is growing. Indian passenger carriers should use this opportunity. Jet can have several international hubs, these will not drive passengers away from Indian airports. Some passengers will benefit by getting direct flights from smaller airports, rather than travelling to major ones, Lillaney added. The deal will allow passengers from 23 Indian cities to get direct international flights, while they can also avail the frequent flyer programmes of both airlines.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

COVER STORY
through. For once, the governments of the world were exposed to unlimited public scrutiny. Manning was caught and is imprisoned in the US. But Assange stayed one step ahead and managed to get diplomatic asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy in London. It is remarkable that one of the smallest countries in the world, and a country which is not really the greatest defender of the freedom of expression, decided to stand up to the mightiest power in the world. They were both sensational cases. But had it been limited to these two, the world would have forgotten about them as aberrations and temporary diversions. In fact the world was settling down to dull routine when the case of Edward Snowden happened. It is explosive, to say the least. It is also amazingly complex in its ramifications as peoples privacy is being violated with impunity. To give an idea of its scale: If Mannings disclosures were about classified documents, Snowdens are about the Top Secret. No wonder the American establishment has hit the panic button. There are two interesting aspects here. First, a country that prided in guaranteeing the freedom of expression is now recording and analysing every spoken and written word, not just of its citizens but that of people world-wide. It is also indulging in intrusive surveillance against other the Big Brother, where should the citizens of the world escape to? The second dimension of this issue is the reverse flow. From attracting conscientious objectors America is now emitting them to other countries. There is one difference, though. The pull for the citizens of East Europe to the West was for ideological and economic reasons. The reverse flow, a miniscule trickle yet, from the US is for ideological reasons. The fact is that the world is changing. H o w e v e r, the US finds it difficult to adjust to this new reality. It wants to hold on to its privileged domineering position; and it wants the global enterprise to continue to function in a manner that ensures Americas primacy. Since the world is still in awe of its presumed power, and as China wants to enjoy the privileges without assuming responsibilities, the US may continue to dominate the world and its affairs for some time. But events like that of Snowden point to a slide and a dent in its image. A reduced America will eventually have to concede and share power with others. China is certainly going to figure prominently in that list of others. It is already Americas equal in many respects; in fact the world has got used to calling the meetings be-

13

A changing world and a lost opportunity for India

International behaviour is no longer predictable. Take for instance America; once it was the land of the free. For close to a hundred years its torch beckoned the needy and the persecuted to its welcoming fold. Remember the East-West era and its plate full of acrimonies? All that sounds so distant, even unnecessary, now. After all, the same West, with all its vanities, is cohabiting with an officially commie China. But from the 1950s up to the late 1980s, the East was the villain; its ideology flawed and its regimes evil. Therefore, its people had to be saved. The greatest attraction pulling people towards the West was the possibility to live life as they chose. In the East, they had to look over their shoulders all the time; the big brother was omnipresent and ever watchful. The West was the Promised Land and defections were a one-way street. People didnt flee the West to settle in communistcontrolled spaces. Since then, the world has changed. East and West are no longer two separate blocs. They may not be equally prosperous; there may still not be all the freedom one might want in Eastern Europe. But people no longer defect. They migrate. Defections, when they happen, take place differently now. What seemed unthinkable once is happening. Today, people leave the West to defend freedoms - of information! It started with Julian Assange and his Wikileaks. People were curious about the information that he felt must be brought out in public domain, but the interest was limited to the specialist. The world got truly excited when Bradley Manning transferred thousands of State Department communications to Wikileaks. There was a virtual electronic mine for people to trawl tween the leaders of the two countries as G-2. But to be a truly great power, China will have to show the ability to stand up to America. By asking Snowden to leave Hongkong, it hasnt shown that will. In fact, future defectors will consider the fate of Snowden before choosing either China or Russia as their destination. India was quick to show the red flag to Snowden over his request for asylum. This was obviously in deference to the US. But did the US show the same consideration to our concerns when RAW officer Rabinder Singh was whisked away by the CIA to America? After all, he had passed on our national secrets. Nor has the US been particularly helpful to Indian requests concerning David Coleman Headley (who reconnoitered Mumbai ahead of the 26/11 attack). How would Jawaharlal Nehru or Indira Gandhi have reacted in a similar situation, when the chips are down domestically but there is an opportunity on the global stage? It is true that the Nehruvian postures of anti-colonialism, anti-racism and non-alignment were so many negatives designed to blunt the prevailing negatives. But they caught the international imagination and got India a special place in the hearts of the people of the developing world. It got India the moral leadership at least. Indira Gandhi used her tirades against the CIA as a domestic political opportunity and to put the US on the back-foot. What are we doing now to protect our citizens privacy and to promote our case in that list of others? There is no discernible game plan yet, but one thing is clear: Nations that aim for greatness do not look over their shoulders all the time. Rajiv Dogra

countries. Americas domestic laws might protect its people, but is there an international law that protects the non-American citizens? Ironically, America once gave refuge to East Europeans because the Big Brother there was watching their every move. Now that America is itself

In the financial markets, every trader has his own style, methodology and a favourite list of fundamental and technical indicators which is developed over time to be consistently profitable. But there is one golden rule subject to absolutely no modification: You dont fight the Fed. This golden rule must be kept in mind while taking a directional call on the dollar-rupee pair from the current levels of about 59.5. Most currency analysts are waiting for another sharp move to the upside in the USD-INR pair to levels of about 63-65, before getting tactically short (expecting the rupee to appreciate against the dollar) from those levels. For the short term, this seems like the ideal strategy to deploy as currency speculators have positioned themselves for continued dollar strength and positive data coming out of the US which would support the beginning of the end of the unconventional monetary policy era. The fundamentals of the Indian economy, although weak, have not changed since Ben Bernanke announced that the Federal Reserve might consider tapering off its quantitative easing (QE) programme as soon as September this year. The volatile move to the upside from 56 to 60.7 since the beginning of June was solely based on the anticipation of less dovish comments coming out of the Federal Open Market

Reforms can help improve sentiments towards rupee

Committee (FOMC). This coincided with the dollar index, a weighted index measuring the performance of the US dollar against the euro, British pound, yen, Swiss franc, Swedish krona and the Canadian dollar rallying from 80.5 to 83.5. Emerging market (EM) currencies were hit more severely with the Mexican peso, Brazilian real, Turkish lira and the South African rand depreciating against the dollar by more than 7 percent each over the past one month. The markets are currently pricing in the fact that the Federal Reserve will moderately start reducing its monthly purchases of bonds and mortgage backed securities of $85 billion and completely end the purchases by mid- 2014. In simple terms, what this really means is that the sick patient (US economy) who was on life support (QE) is getting better as per the doctors (Feds) expectations and over the next 12 months, the probability that the patient would not need the life support is very high. Further, since December 2012, the Federal Reserve has tied the evolution of its QE programme to a key macroeconomic variable - unemployment. In a press conference, Bernanke said that when the asset purchases ultimately come to an end, the unemployment rate would be in the vicinity of 7 percent. On the back of better than expected

non-farm payrolls data and jobless claims for the past couple of months, the most conservative estimate is that the unemployment rate would fall to 7.1 percent by May 2014. Bond yields on 10-year US treasuries have risen above 2.5 percent in anticipation of higher future real interest rates marking the end of the zero interest rate policy (ZIRP) regime. In the currency market, the rising yields have led to the unwinding of the dollar carry trade. A carry trade is when an investor borrows a currency with low inter-

est rates, like the US, and uses it to buy assets in another currency with higher interest rates such as Indian Rupee and other EM currencies. For the next couple of months, one would be betting against the global trend of dollar strength and a strong US economic recovery if one were to position himself for the rupee staging a comeback. If the dollar index rallies up to the 90-95 levels by year end, even RBI intervention may not be able to abate the rupees fall. Further rate cuts by the RBI, which are INR positive as they lead to portfolio

inflows in the medium term, are also not on the radar as inflation remains stubbornly high. But the sentiment towards the rupee can be improved by action from New Delhi which could possibly include further liberalisation of the capital account, debt market (DM) reform and relaxation of foreign direct investment limits - initiatives that would encourage capital inflows in a time where liquidity is moving back to the DMs, most notably in the United States. Vatsal Srivastava

14
Ranveer Singh has his ways to impress - he is smart, witty, charming and has a natural flair for acting. The young Bollywood actor, who is often called a flirt, says he doesnt mind this, but he admits he has a problem with tags. Im just generous with my compliments. I tend to see the beauty in everyone. I dont hold back in expressing my feelings and thats why I think all these traits of mine add up to me being tagged a flirt... Which is fine, Ranveer said in a group interview. Its not that I have

CELEB
that era, he said. The going was not so easy for the young actor, who admits he was in a do or die situation when he stepped into showbiz. Ranveer, who had no godfather to fall back upon in the industry, made a successful debut with Yash Raj Films Band Baaja Baaraat in 2010. Its been a rollicking innings ever since - Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl and now Lootera, as well as other plum projects in the offing for the 27-year-old. I think I made a strong start and I knew that was important and I knew that I will not get many chances. It was do or die for me. I had to make a good first impression and I managed it, Ranveer said. He believes that his effortless portrayal of Bittoo Sharma, a streetsmart boy, helped him get the visibility he wanted. A lot of good work is coming from that perception which people formed of me from my first film. I am happy that I was able to make a mark, Ranveer added. Having said that, the actor admits delivering good work consistently is vital. (I know) It is about delivery after this. Gone are the days of surviving on your persona, he said. For now, he is doing good - with movies like Ram Leela and Gunday in his kitty!
IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Call me a flirt, but dont tag me: Ranveer Singh Award shows offer right kind of encouragement: Ayushmann Mumbai you into believing that she is from

Ranvir Shorey back as Dilliwala in Bajatey Raho

New Delhi After essaying a typical Dilliwala in Khosla Ka Ghosla, actor Ranvir Shorey was conscious about staying away from playing a Delhi-guy on the big screen. But he changed his mind for Shashant Shahs Bajatey Raho. As much as I loved playing a Delhiite in Khosla Ka Ghosla, it was quite irritating to be offered so many roles where people wanted me to be known as a guy from the capital. I appreciate the fact that everyone liked me in that role, but Ive always tried to do different roles, Ranvir said in a statement. Thats when he vowed not to do any more roles that put him in that bracket. However, when Shashant came to me with Bajatey Raho, I realised it was time once again to be a Dilliwala. The script is brilliant and Shashant is a very good filmmaker. I wanted to work with him and even though I am from Delhi in this film, it is not a repeat of Khosla Ka Ghosla, added Ranvir. Bajatey Raho will take view-

a problem with being tagged as a flirt! I have a problem with tags. You define and limit people with tags. Each person is complex and infinite, he said. Thus, his song Kya karun oh ladies, main hun aadat se majboor gels well with his ways! The actor has been seen flirting with actress Sonakshi Sinha at promotional events for Lootera, which released Friday. The on-screen couple was not bereft of dating rumours, but giving his side of the story, Ranveer said: I have great chemistry with her. I remember that there were rumours of us seeing each other even before Lootera. We have a friendly relationship. She is easy to work with. She has great ease and effort by the way we

Macau Ayushmann Khurrana, who is here for the 14th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards that started Thursday, feels such functions give actors like him the right kind of encouragement. Award shows give new actors like me the right kind of encouragement. I am not a big star who will say that these awards dont matter. I am new to this... I am like a kind of a candy store where I want everything, he told IANS. The gala of glitz and glamour will conclude Saturday with awards distribution and Ayushmann, who became popular after his performance in hit movie Vicky Donor, will be seen grooving at the awards night with Ishaqzaade fame Parineeti Chopra.

It is great. This is the second time I am here. Last time I was hosting the show and this time I am performing with Parineeti. So, it is a different craft altogether. I am really looking forward to it, said the actor whose last outing was Nautanki Saala. The actor has deliberately chosen to do something different. It is not a high beat performance, it is more of a slow romantic numbers...I cant anchor every show. I should explore different avenues and this was a conscious decision for sure, he said. Talking about his future projects, he said that his next film is with Yash Raj Films with Sonam Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor. It is a love story in times of recession and is releasing next year, he informed.

work. I kind of learn from her to be more easy about my work. she is a spontaneous actor and understands that films are about capturing lifes moments...shes tremendously gifted. Lootera, a period drama directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, spells an old world charm. Ranveer sincerely believes Sonakshi was the best choice for the part. She fits the character. No one can pull off that old world charm and look. She can, with her look and mannerisms, completely transport

Ravi Kishan looks forward to beautiful phase of his career

Mumbai Bhojpuri superstar Ravi Kishans two Hindi films - Bajaatey Raho and Issaq - will release on the same day and he terms the coming phase as the most beautiful of his career. Two big films are releasing July 26 - Bajaatey Raho and Issaq - and I am the central character in both the films. The coming few weeks will mark the most beautiful phase of my career. There are almost six films and each has me in a different style..., the 41-year-old said here Wednesday on the sets of a Bhojpuri film. While Bajaatey Raho is a revenge comedy, Issaq is a desi adaptation of William Shakespeares play Romeo & Juliet. Ravi is glad that Bollywood has started depending on him. I am playing very different characters. I have been waiting for 20 years for this phase and I have finally got roles I wanted. Thank god Bollywood is recognising me and has started depending on me, said the actor.

Cameron Diaz, Penelope Cruz go topless for film

Los Angeles Actors Cameron Diaz and Penelope Cruz have gone topless in their upcoming movie The Counselor. In a still from the movie, which also stars Brad Pitt, Michael Fassbender, Cruzs husband Javier Bardem, John Leguizamo and Rosie Perez, Diaz and Cruz are seen without their tops. They have covered their assets with towels and are seen lounging poolside next to each other, reports eonline.com. They also reportedly ditched make-up for this scene.
IANS

ers through a journey where all hell breaks loose and its only the crooks who are left to rule the roost. The film also features Ravi Kishan, Dolly Ahluwalia, Tusshar Kapoor and Vinay Pathak. Co-produced by Eros International and Multi Screen Media Motion Pictures, the film is releasing July 26.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

CELEB

15

Sonam Kapoor wants to play Meena Kumari Goals, discipline must for Mumbai success: Madhuri Dixit Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor
would love to play legendary actress Meena Kumari in case her biopic is made because she is fascinated by real characters with some flaws. I would like to play Meena Kumari...she had such a tragic life, said Sonam known for playing different roles in films like Delhi 6, Mausam, Aisha and I hate Luv Storys among others. Meena Kumari, one of the most talented and successful actresses of her time, was tagged as Tragedy Queen for playing such roles in films like Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam. Her personal life was not a bed of roses either - she had to deal with a troubled marriage and alcohol addiction and died of liver cirrohsis at the age of 39. I want to play any one who has a nice character arch and is flawed, I would love to play such roles. It is because they are human. I am very flawed myself...I want to play a real person, said Sonam. In last six years, Sonam has worked in about a dozen of films, but it is her recent release Raanjhanaa, in which she plays a simple girl from Benaras, that helped her get her due at the box office. Of course, she is enjoying the unexpected positive response. The response has been good. I am very happy. When I was working, I

didnt think I will get as much appreciation. I was working hard and was putting in a lot of effort. I really enjoyed working with (director) Aanand L. Rai. He is my favourite director, said the 28-year-old. Also, viewers enjoyed her chemistry with southern actor Dhanush in the Raanjhanaa.

He is a good actor and a good person as well. When that combination comes, it suits people a lot. A nice performer is liked by people, she said. Meanwhile, the actress is excited about her role in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehras Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, where she plays a small part.

Fukrey took Jacqueline Fernandez new face Shah Rukh of India Bridal Fashion Week back to his younger days

Mumbai Madhuri Dixit, who returned to India from the US after spending almost a decade away from Bollywood, has bagged some interesting projects and says its important to have goals in life for success. There is no mantra for success. But one should always think positive, should always have some goals in life. Then there should be some discipline, which would help you reach your goals, the 46-year-old said when asked about her mantra for success. So there has to be something you are working towards and that helps you, you have to keep moving all the time, she added. Madhuri married US-based doctor

Sriram Nene in 1999 and relocated to Denver. They have two sons Arin and Raayan. The actress came back to India in 2011. There are a lot of things for Madhuri in the pipeline. There will be Gulaab Gang, Dedh Ishqiya. Then Jhalak... is happening. Then I have started an online dance academy and there you will see me as a dance guru. So, a lot of facets, Madhuri said. While Gulaab Gang is an Anubhav Sinha production, Dedh Ishqiya is a Vishal Bhardwaj production directed by Abhishek Chaubey. Recently, Madhuri was seen in item number Ghagra in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. IANS

Aditya Roy Kapur in Bejoy Nambiars next

Mumbai Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwanis small-budget production Fukrey has been declared a hit and Ali Fazal, seen in an important role in the film, reveals that the film took superstar Shah Rukh Khan back to his younger days. Directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, the film came out June 14 and has done a business of over Rs.30 crore. Biggest compliment that we all got was from Shah Rukh Khan. He appreciated our acting and he himself told us how it took him back to his younger days, Fazal said here Tuesday at Fukrey success party. Fazal made his debut in 2009 with Aamir Khan-starrer 3 Idiots and was later seen in Shah Rukhs production Always Kabhi Kabhi. He is keen to maintain his relationship with the two Khans. I am very happy that he enjoyed it because he also happens to be my producer. My entry in Bollywood happened in a way because of Aamir bhai and Shah Rukh sir. So that connection, I hope, remains, Ali said. Fukrey also stars Manjot Singh, Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma, Priya Anand, Richa Chadda and Vishakha Singh. IANS

New Delhi Sri Lankan actress Jacqueline Fernandez, who is active in the Hindi film industry, has been chosen as brand ambassador of the fourth edition of Aamby Valley India Bridal Fashion Week (AVIBFW), starting here July 23. Jacqueline will feature in an extensive print and digital campaign that has been shot at the Aamby Valley to portray an uberstylish bride. The 28-year-old will also be seen walking the ramp here as well as in Mumbai during the event. It is an honour to represent the India Bridal Fashion Week, which is not just a platform to showcase bridal

fashion but an event that helps consumers gain access to the best designs that the Indian fashion industry has to offer, Jacqueline, seen in films like Murder 2 and Race 2, said in a statement. The extravaganza will have a mix of bridal and couture collections presented by top designers like Tarun Tahilani, Raghavendra Rathore and Shantanu and Nikhil. Vijay Singh, chairman, Fashion One International, said: Jacqueline represents the modern bride who is fashion forward yet demure and traditional and the perfect brand ambassador for AVIBFW, Indias most opulent and trend-setting fashion week. IANS

Mumbai Filmmaker Bejoy Nambiar may rope in Aditya Roy Kapur for his next film, but says the last word on the cast will happen only when he finishes the scripting. Known for directing films like David and Shaitan, the director hasnt titled his film yet. I am still writing my next film and not decided about the cast yet. I am

still working on the script and dont want to comment on it. I just met him (Aditya) once and we are talking. I dont want to reveal anything more than that, Nambiar told IANS. Once I finish the script, I can probably talk about it but right now its too early, he added. Reportedly the untitled film is the same project that Nambiar was supposed to do with Shahid Kapoor.

16
w E E K L Y H O
While work seems to move along smoothly and you are able to do all that you had hoped to, the problems seem to be personal reARIES lationships. Minor Mar 21-Apr 19 hitches or snide remarks could become an issue if you allow it to happen. Try to be more understanding towards those who love and care for you.
You will make rapid progress in your work or profession. You will find plenty of time to devote to exLIBRA tra curricular activiSep 23 - Oct 22 ties and favourable hobbies. Some of you may even visit a place of entertainment or holiday resort .The married may have to cope with an irate and angry mate. A little bit of love and attention will resolve the situation.

LEISURE
R O S C O
You will receive work offers of your choice and on your own terms and conditions. Now is the time to branch out TAURUS into a new field of Apr 20 - May 20 activity which has been on your thoughts for a long time. The married have a difficult task to balance a hectic work schedule and domestic responsibilities. A rather busy hectic schedule seems to be getting the better of you . A change of routine or a different SCORPIO approach to your work Oct 23 - Nov 21 will go a long way in making you feel more relaxed. There is a possibility of purchasing some land or property or bringing about some changes at home.
You will be able to achieve wonders at work through further financial investments and also because of the support of famGEMINI ily and your partner. May 21 - Jun 20 New work proposals are also likely to materialize. The employed will get the good news of an important career development. Interesting work proposals are likely to turn up . Work will get concluded on time and you can look forward to some good news coming your way. A seminar, preSAGITTARIUS sentation, or exhibiNov 22 - Dec 21 tion that you may have planned for this week will also have a favourable response. Business persons will sign new deals. You may decide to go out with friends and colleagues this week.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Panchang in Brief: Sun, Mercury, Venus and Jupiter in Taurus, Moon in Leo, Mars and Ketu in Aries, Sani and Rahu in Libra. Nakshatra is Purva phalguni.
An overseas or long distance journey is indicated and will be fruitful. Financial gains are predicted. CANCER Your recent success Jun 21 - Jul 22 will bring you more into the limelight and your mate or partner will be instrumental in promoting you. Happy times with your beloved is foreseen.
You may be uncertain about a certain venture proposed by a partner or a close friend. It is better to be honest and state CAPRICORN your misgivings Dec 22 - Jan 19 about this project rather than be good to the other person. In matters of finance you have to be clear if you wish to safeguard your interests. Help is at hand from a quarter that you least expect. Communication, travel, and childrens affairs work out favourably for you. However, certain aspects that you have been discussJul 23 - Aug. 22 ing with colleagues about your personal life could now lead to a great deal of embarrassment . Try not to react or retaliate as it will only make you more vulnerable to negative influences.

LEO

An absorbing and financially beneficial week lies ahead. A close associate or partner may have a good idea which is worth developing. VIRGO Travel abroad is indiAug. 23 - Sep 22 cated for some of you. Independent entrepreneurs may opt for a complete change . Romantic associations formed now will be enduring.

A busy schedule will An easy inflow of monkeep you constantly ey will tempt you to go on the move . At a on a shopping spree. meeting , your ideas Family life is happy and plans will receive and congenial. Some you will be making approval. Income PISCES AQUARIUS of plans to travel , perhaps Jan 20 - Feb. 18 Feb 19 - Mar 20 will balance your exto develop a hobby or penses this week. The personal interest. There is an air of health of a close relative causes conromance and excitement showing that cern. You may have to seek medical you will develop intimate links with advice for this person. someone who has been wooing you for long.

V. Kumar (Scientific Horoscope Consultant) You can consult him with Appointment on: 9855150789; 9592095234
DOWN 1. Health farm 2. ______ capita 3. Extreme anger 4. Christmas glitter 5. Gladden 6. Tinter 7. Small arrow 8. Act like 9. Luau garland 10. Munch 11. Payable 17. Sandwich store 19. Orchard fruit 20. Be nosy 21. Brownish gray 22. Ceremonies 24. More frosty 25. Accompanying 26. Feel 29. Classified ______ 30. Gets up 32. Visible to the audience 35. Name word 36. Franklin______ Roosevelt 39. Imitate 41. Paradise 42. Destination 43. African antelope 44. Pull apart 45. Raised railroads 47. Co. abbr. 48. Agent Smiths nemesis 49. Historic time

ACROSS 1. Ill will 6. Ikes monogram 9. Guided 12. Jeopardy 13. Sweet potato 14. _______ de toilette 15. Sports locale 16. Learned 18. Frighten 20. Actress Meryl ____ 23. Pseudonym 27. Metal spike 28. Tiny speck 31. Not home 32. Classic song 33. Charged particle 34. Lack of secrecy 36. Lions home 37. Coins from Mexico 38. Come out 40. Knife or fork 43. Smallbomb 46. Bangors state 50. Nothing 51. Mild exclamation 52. Not outer 53. Raises 54. Culmination 55. Hot chocolate

Crossword Solution 30 June, 2013

1 A 12 L 15 P 18 H 20 A 2 C I T E D 3 H E A R D 21 R 25 E D O 4 E N S 19 D E S E R 36 T 41 T 43 A 47 T 50 A 44 L O B 45 L E E E S T E R 33 T A R G 48 E 51 T 37 R E I G N 34 M A S C O T 5 O 13 D 16 D E S T 6 P E E L S 7 T E E T E 26 R 17 P A S A 31 D E N A 46 S 49 A 52 N 27 T I N T 38 U 42 N T I E 39 L I A R S 40 A B Y S S 8 O 14 R E S 22 G I N 23 N O G 24 U N O 9 P I N 10 E N E 11 N O D

1 12 15

6 13 16

8 17 23

9 14

10 11

18 20 21 22 27 31 34 37 40 43 44 45 50 53 51 54 35 32

19 24 25 26 33 36 38 39 41 42 46 52 55 47 48 49 28 29 30

28 B 32 R 35 O

29 L E D

30 A T E

Sudoku Solution 23 June, 2013

Give your childs bedroom cartoon makeover

New Delhi Make your child happy by giving his bedroom a cute makeover with soft, multi-coloured bed linens printed with cartoon characters like Superman, Scooby Doo, Barbie, Tweety, Tom and Jerry amongst others. Portico, leading New York-based brand, has launched its exclusive line of bed linens and comforters for children printed with worlds most beloved cartoon characters. The collection includes cartoon characters from the globally recognised companies like Mattel, Nickelodeon, and Warner Brothers, with whom the lifestyle brand has exclusive licensing rights for bed and bath category in India. The brand has curated the collection keeping in mind kids affinity towards brave, adventurous, happy and truly delightful characters like Dora the Explorer, Tweety, Tom and Jerry, Looney Tunes and Hot Wheels, amongst others.

We at Portico are pleased to be associated with these world renowned kid-centric companies in order to bring timeless favourites to our young customers. We hope they enjoy these lovable characters in their homes and create lasting childhood memories through them, said Arun Bhawsingka, CEO, Portico New York. The collection starts at Rs.999 for bed sheets and Rs.1,899 for comforters.

Sudoku 07 July, 2013

IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

REVIEW
Issaq
Music BOOK
soaring notes after the first few seconds. Sung with a tinge of regional flavour with the sound of classical instruments like sarangi, it is difficult to classify the genre of the song. But this ones definitely very passionate. Theres a duet for this one too! Singer Pratibha adds her soothing vocals to the high energy sound of Rashids voice. The introduction of the table beats takes the song to very different level. This is like a rare combination of classical singing and music fused with a contemporary touch. An excellent composition! The beauty of lyrics here, are not be missed. Author Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay Publisher Tranquebar When he was six years old, the man who could be Indias prime minister helped his father sell tea to passengers whenever an odd train came into the small Vadnagar station in Gujarat. Narendra Modi was an ordinary boy from a middle class family, the third of four children, and life was literally dark when he was young. The family house was poorly lit and had little natural light; the kerosene lamp added to the smoke and grime. There was nothing remarkable about Modis childhood except that he got attracted to the RSS - which later helped him grow politically. At 18, he decided to wander in the Himalayas, leaving behind his family and an unconsummated marriage. According to Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, who has authored a gripping biography of the Gujarat chief minister, the years from 1967 to 1971 are somewhat mysterious in Modis life. He would disappear at times for months at a stretch. The trait remained with him. In 1995-96, Modi went to the Gir forest on his own and slept in an old temple. I actually enjoy loneliness. It was after the 1971 war with Pakistan that Modi formally joined the RSS and moved into the Hedgewar Bhawan. His early responsibilities included making tea, breakfast and evening snacks for senior colleagues. He also swept and cleaned the building, which then had eight-ten rooms. Modi proved his mettle while doing risky underground work during the

17

Love, passion packed in music

Narendra Modi - The Man, The Times The anatomy of Narendra Modi
Gujarat BJP. Modi learnt the ropes of party politics by attending BJP public meetings - quietly sitting in the back and listening to speeches. In 2001, the boy who once sold tea to train passengers became its chief minister and then presided over one of Indias worst communal frenzy. The Godhra killings gave Modi a distinct identity a label which he has displayed brazenly ever since. According to Mukhopadhyay, Modi strongly believes that if minorities wish to feel safe in the state he governs, they will have to abide by the value systems of the Hindu community.Modi the book says - is one of the trendiest male politicians in India. He was among the first to possess a digital diary. He is always well groomed. He goes for made-to-order Modi kurta with hand-tailored button holes. He is at home in Western attire too. He has a weakness for designer fountain pens - Montblanc. A workaholic, he also never forgives anyone who has wronged him. Those who have known Modi tell the author that he is an authoritarian who wont allow anyone to grow beyond a point. He is ruthless -- with ruthless efficiency. Mukhpadhyay is not a fan of the Gujarat success story; he explains why with statistics. This book, on Modi, is political journalism at its best. You have to read it if you want to know why Modi is what he is today.
IANS

Music composers Sachin-Jigar Singers Mohit Chauhan, Prathiba Bhagel, Rashid Khan, Rahul Ram, Sachinn Gupta, Ankit Tiwari, Tarun Sagar, Mamta Sharma, Papon, Kirti Sagathia, Raghubir Yadav, Malini Awasthi and Smriti Jain The music of director Manish Tiwarys forthcoming movie Issaq boasts of an intelligent blend of instruments and singers voices. The film is said to be a contemporary take on William Shakespeares Romeo and Juliet and the composers have taken special care to bring out the passion loud and clear. The first track Issaq tera is an outand-out winner, with singer Mohit Chauhan spinning magic with his voice. This soft number, where the sound of the flute is very soothing to the ears, talks about a simple and sweet love story. It has good lyrics and once you warm up to it, youre left asking for more. Issaq tera has a duet version as well. Singer Smriti Jain joins Mohit behind the mike for the number, which begins with a grand instrumental piece. The singers complement each other very well in this short, but beautiful number. The next album on the list is Jheeni re jheeni. Do not make the mistake of writing it off as a slow-paced track based on its beginning. Singer Rashid Khan takes the number to sky

The third track Bhole chale talks about the journey of Lord Shiva with an entourage to wed Parvati. Sung by Rahul Ram and Sachinn Gupta, the fast-paced song is full of mischief. It slows down a bit in between to reflect a soothing and melodious sound, but eventually picks up pace. A touch of rock music makes its presence felt, but it does not take away the attention from the singers impressive energy. Next up is Aag ka dariya, sung by Ankit Tiwary. Aggression is the keyword here. With alternative rock backing the song, this one reiterates the line - Ek aag ka dariya hai aur doob ke jana hai. The tempo of the song changes from time to time as the singer talks about beauty of the female protagonist in the movie. The unplugged version of Aag ka dariya changes the soul of the song completely, and for good. Ankits vocals are better sounding here. There is also an ear-catching jugalbandi of sorts between the flute and the guitar. You know it when an item song is added just for the heck of it! And the track Enne unne is just that! It may not be a hardcore item track, but serves the same purpose. It is sung by Tarun Sagar, Mamta Sharma, Papon and Kirti Sagathia. The listener struggles to find the reason and logic behind the song. The next track is Bhagan Ke rekhan ki. It is tough to slot it, but it has a wedding song kind of a feel to it. It kickstars with a shehnai, and Malini sings the song well. Raghubir Yadavs voice brings a change for the listener. Overall, the Issaq soundtrack scores well. The composers have tuned the singers and the music in an almost impeccable manner. Love, revenge, passion and sadness - what else can one require for a complete musical experience. IANS

1975-77 Emergency, often travelling in disguise and on a motorcycle. (Soon after, he completed M.A. as an external student from Gujarat University.) Seniors in RSS soon realized his excellent organisational skills and analytical mind. Modis rise in the RSS was rapid - in part because he was also equally adept at picking his mentors and making use of them for furthering his career. He was among the first two Pracharaks who began working fulltime in the BJP. His role in helping the party win the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation election in 1986 raised appreciative eyebrows. Within two years, he was the organising secretary of the

Lootera An epic love saga

Karan Johar: Saw the superbly crafted and performed Lootera... Sonakshi Sinha is a revelation! All accolades for Vikram...team Phantom and team Balaji!(sic). Anurag Kashyap: Such incredible response for Lootera. A filmmaker amongst us directors Vikramaditya Motwane. Director : Vikramaditya Motwane Cast & Crew : Ranveer Singh, Sonakshi Sinha, Vikrant Massey Lootera is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, whose last film Udaan won accolades at many film festivals. A period romance, the film is co-produced by Phantom Films and Ekta Kapoors Balaji Motion Pictures. Story The year is 1953. Pakhi (Sonakshi Sinha), young and vulnerable looking girl, lives with her father, a Zamindar, in an aristocratic world. In this tranquil existence enters an archaeologist, Varun(Ranveer Singh), seeking help from the Zamindar with a letter from the Archaeological Society of India.With his remarkable knowledge of books and music, and expertise in his own field, Varun impresses the Zamindar, stealing his way into the life and heart of the family; especially Pakhis. As love blossoms, Pakhi is drawn towards Varuns captivating reserve and easy-going charm. Following a series of inevitable uncertainties and misunderstandings, she comes to terms with her feelings for Varun on the eve of his departure. She shares them with her father and Varun finds himself agreeing to marry Pakhi.But strange are the quirks of fate, queer the vicissitudes of misfortune.A shocking realization about Varun shatters Pakhis life. She turns isolated. Pakhi struggles to move on with her life, determined to forget him and their relationship. Until one day, he lands up at her door-step under the most extraordinary circumstances. Konkona Sen Sharma: Udaan director Vikramaditya comes back with a glorious second film Lootera. Can`t wait to see what he will make next. Ranveer exceptional. Aditi Rao Hydari: Lootera... swooning. Ranveer, Sonakshi, Vikramaditya is epic! And so is the Dop (Director of Photography). Shruti Seth: Just watched Lootera. Such a poignant story of love and longing. Superlative jobs by everyone, but the director deserves the loudest applause. (sic)

Movie

SRK unveils music of Chennai Express

18

SCIENCE AND TECH

said. Asked about the revenue potential of the navigation satellite system that will come into play by 2015, Radhakrishnan said: There is a large group of users for navigation systems. Several new services will also develop. He said the navigation satellite service can be started with four satellites in place. The IRNSS is a constellation of seven s a t e l lites in the space and two satellites as spares. The total project cost is around Rs.1,450 crore (Rs.350 crore for ground systems and the balance for nine satellites). It is a regional navigational system developed by India designed to provide accurate position information service to users within the country and up to 1,500 km from the nations boundary line. While ISRO is silent on the navigation systems strategic application, it is clear that IRNSS will be used for defence purposes as well. The system is similar to the global positioning system (GPS) of the US (24 satellites), Glonass of Russia (24 satellites), Galileo of Europe (27 satellites), Chinas Beidou (35 satellites) or the Japanese Quasi Zenith Satellite System with three satellites. According to A.S.Kiran Kumar, director of Space Applications Centre, talks are on with industries for the signal receivers for the navigation systems. Radhakrishnan said the government has given its sanction for building two more communication satellites

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

India plans series of satellite launches by March 2014

Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh) The Indian space agency has lined up a series of launches for this fiscal, including the silver jubilee flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C25 (PSLV-C25) carrying the Mars orbiter, a top official said. The Mars mission will be anytime after October 21 this year. As per plans after the ejecting the orbiter, it will start its Mars voyage around November 28 or 29, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman K. Radhakrishnan told reporters. He expressed his happiness at the successful launch of Indias first navigation satellite - Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System-1A (IRNSS-1A) - Monday night. Speaking about the other launches planned by the space agency this fiscal, Radhakrishnan said an advanced meteorological satellite - INSAT-3D - will be launched through the Ariane 5 rocket later this month. He said communication satellite GSat-14 will be launched through ISROs heavy rocket Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Aug 6 from here. Another communication satellite Gsat-7 will be launched by Ariane rocket this year and the satellite will be shipped to French Guiana spaceport. Radhakrishnan said another PSLV rocket is planned to carry a foreign satellite SPOT-7 sometime during December this year. In January 2014, GSLV Mark III experimental mission is slated. And there is also the launch of Indias second navigation satellite IRNSS1D in March 2014, Radhakrishnan

Oracle unveils faster database server for Indian enterprises

Gsat- 15 (with 24 Ku band trans p o n ders) and Gsat-16 (with 48 transponders in Ku, C and extended C bands) at an total outlay of around Rs.1,725 crore. He said the satellites will augment ISROs transponder capacity currently at 95 as three INSAT satellites will go out of usage in two years time. According to Radhakrishnan, the space agency is in consultation with the industries to augment their capacity to meet its increased needs of satellites and rockets. We are mulling a consortium approach. There is also lot of modularity built in the satellites to speed up its production, he added. Queried about the second moon mission, Radhakrishnan said there is uncertainty relating to the lander to be provided by Russia for the mission. We need to get information from Russia on the lander part, he said. Radhakrishnan added that technologies have to be developed for human space mission and ISRO is working IANS on them.

Bangalore Global software major Oracle Corporation Wednesday unveiled its latest database server, which is 10 times faster than its earlier version for Indian enterprises across industry verticals. We are launching the product Sparc super-cluster T5-8 in India first, a week after its global launch in the US, in view of the growing importance and size of the market here and its multiple benefits to our enterprise customers, Oracle India director Mitesh Agarwal told reporters here. Pre-integrated with its servers, storage, networking and software tools, the super-clusters engineered system will enable enterprises to process huge volumes of data in quick time with T5 processor, which is twice as fast as the T4 processor of 2011. The T5 servers 16-core microprocessor is built on chip technology of Sun Microsystems, which Oracle acquired in January 2010. As enterprises face infrastructure complexity and pressures to lower costs, our new product will enable them to process complex databases and applications even in private cloud environment, Oracle vicepresident Ganesh Ramamurthy said

at a preview of the product. The 20-year-old Indian subsidiary has about 7,000 customers, including 4,500 in the mid-size segment across verticals spanning telecom, financial services, government, retail, manufacturing, education and healthcare. The super-cluster T5 runs database and enterprise applications on a single platform and lowers total cost of operation through consolidation and deliver secure multi-tenant cloud services five times faster than earlier version, Agarwal asserted. The company also launched an enhanced support service to help enterprises optimise their investments in IT infrastructure and database management. As the highest level of service in the industry, we will respond to our customers in five minutes, restore or escalate their call in 15 minutes, debug in 30 minutes and monitor on 24x7 basis to remediate issues, Ganesh pointed out. With over 1,000 partners and about 30,000 techies at its development centres in Hyderabad, Bangalore and Gurgaon in Haryana, the subsidiarys hardware and software products are engineered to work together for enterprises, including third-party data services providers. IANS

Nanofiber mesh developed to treat cancer

Tokyo Scientists have developed a nanofiber mesh that can efficiently induce natural death (apoptosis) of epithelial cancer cells, says a study. Developed by the researchers at International Centre of Material Nanoarchitectonics (MANA), Japan, the nanofiber mesh is capable of simultaneously realising thermotherapy (hyperthermia) and chemotherapy (treatment with anti-cancer drugs) of tumours, which until now was difficult to achieve, reports online bulletin of journal Advanced Functional Materials. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an epithelial malignant tumour which is found in many tissues. SCC is thought to account for more than 90 percent of esophageal cancers, more than 80 percent of the cervical cancers, and more than 30 percent of lung cancers. Although surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are three main therapeutic methods according to the stages of cancers, in addition to these methods, thermotherapy has also attracted great attention in recent years, according to researchers. The nonofiber mesh developed by the MANA researchers is applied directly to the affected part. Its hybrid material combines a temperature-responsive polymer, magnetic nanoparticles, and anti-cancer drugs.

Plutos Nokia expands portfolio of highly affordable, smallest 3G mobile phones Nokia 207, Nokia 208 and Nokia 208 Dual SIM offer performance, versatility and quality moons get official names
Washington The two smallest known moons orbiting Pluto have been officially christened by the International Astronomical Union, which is in charge of approving celestial names. American non-profit science research group SETI Institute said the moon earlier known as P4, which was discovered in the summer of 2011, has been named Kerberos, after the threeheaded dog of Greek mythology. The moons join Plutos previously known moons Charon, Nix and Hydra. The SETI Institute said Plutos moons are all named for characters associated with the underworld of Greek and Roman mythology, according to the International Astronomical Union rules. The two names were selected based on the results of an unprecedented internet vote that was held during February 2013, with the ballot receiving almost 500,000 votes, including 30,000 write-in suggestions, the institute said. I was overwhelmed by the public response to the naming campaign, said Mark Showalter, senior research scientist at the SETI Institute, who led the team of astronomers in the discoveries of Kerberos and Styx. The top vote went to Vulcan, based on a suggestion from actor William Shatner of TVs Star Trek, but it was rejected because that name has already been used in astronomy. Nokia expanded its range of classically designed mobile phones with the launch of three new, high-performing handsets. The Nokia 207, Nokia 208 and Nokia 208 Dual SIM combine the familiar candybar design with Nokias signature bold colors and 3.5G-capable Internet speeds. Popular social apps, smarter imaging and productivity features such as Internet-sharing and Mail for Exchange support make these phones some of the most versatile at their price point; perfect for people balancing work and play. The Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 are designed for people who like a classic phone and traditional keypad but dont want to miss out on smartphone experiences, like staying connected to social media and accessing the Internet, said Timo Toikkanen, executive vice president, Mobile Phones, Nokia. As our most affordable 3G devices yet, the Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 offer a perfect balance of performance, features and quality.

Smarter features deliver greater versatility

The Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 are ideal for use on-the-go, with a familiar, alphanumeric keypad for speedy texts and messaging, and Mail for Exchange for staying on top of work email and calendar appointments. The Transfer app, available today in the Nokia Store, allows people to sync contacts directly from their smartphone* and transforms the Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 into secondary or companion devices, perfect for travel. The Nokia 208 Dual SIM has the added benefit of Nokias Easy Swap technology, allowing people to change SIM cards without turning off the device, to take advantage of more favorable tariffs. Consistent with devices across the Nokia Mobile Phones portfolio, the Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 offer faster and more affordable mobile Internet experiences. Support for 3G coupled with the data compression available with Nokia Xpress Browser help people enjoy rich mobile experiences at lower cost. These experiences include top social apps such as WhatsApp**, Facebook and Twitter, alongside video streaming through YouTube. For even greater versatility, people can also use the Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 as a portable modem, simply by connecting the device to their laptop via a USB cable for Internet sharing anywhere, anytime. Playful imaging features and Nokia durability add to versatility The smart camera features of the Nokia 208 make taking pictures more enjoyable, with voice-guided selfportrait, sequential shot and panorama mode giving people more playful imaging options. Sharing photos is a breeze with the Slam feature that allows people to share images with another Bluetooth-enabled device in just a few clicks. The Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 deliver outstanding battery life - up to 33 days of standby time for the Nokia 207 and Nokia 208, and up to 20 days of standby time for the Nokia 208 Dual SIM - helping people stay connected for longer. Easy to clean and scratchproof, the handsets are durable for everyday use as well as more extreme conditions, such as hot or dusty environments. The Nokia 208 will be available in single SIM and Easy Swap Dual SIM variants. The Nokia 207 will be available as a single SIM option without a camera in Europe. Available colours include red, cyan, yellow, white and black. The estimated retail price for the Nokia 207 and Nokia 208 is 68 USD (52 Euros) and they are expected to start shipping during third quarter of 2013.

IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

KIDS
Punjab girl to represent India at Google Science Fair

19

Why do we Yawn?
One study found that when shown videos of yawning, around 50 percent of people also began yawning. In fact, before you even finish reading this article it is likely that youll yawn at least once. Which will make your understand that reading about yawning makes you yawn.

awning, everybody does it. It is interpreted to have a variety of meanings, ranging from tiredness to boredom. Possibly more interesting is the fact that yawning is contagious among humans. Humans as well as animals affected by the yawning bug. Scientists do not claim to know all of the biological mechanisms of the yawn, but tend to agree that a yawn is an involuntary respiratory reflex, which regulates the carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the blood. Technically, a yawn is the reflex opening of the mouth followed by the deep inhalation and slow exhalation of oxygen. Another theory is that yawning stretches the lungs and lung tissue. Stretching and yawning may be a way to flex muscles and joints, increase heart rate, and feel more awake.

In general yawning consists of three phases: first, a long intake of air, then a high point and finally a rapid exhalation, which may or may not be accompanied by stretching. After yawning, you generally experience a sense of well being and relaxation and feel much more present in. A Few Cool Yawning Facts The average yawn lasts about six seconds. 50 percent of people will yawn within five minutes of seeing someone else yawn. Blind people yawn more after hearing an audio tape of people yawning. Scientists believe that certain biochemical substances in our brain affect our moods and emotions so as to trigger yawning. Olympic athletes often yawn before they race.

New Delhi A 15-year-old girl from Punjab has become the only Indian student to make it to the finals of the Google Science Fair, 2013, a company statement said. Shrishti Asthana, a Class 11 student from Millenium School, Mohali, had presented a project on a solar powerassisted green technique for degradation of detergents and was chosen from among thousands of participants from 120 countries. The inspiration for the project came when Shrishti went on a field trip to Ludhiana and was disturbed by the dire state of the disposal technique of industrial waste... She began her journey to find a green solution to turn waste detergent water from industries into an eco-friendly alternative, the statement said. According to Google, Asthana would be competing with 14 other finalists from around the world who would be taken to the Google headquarters in the US Sep 23 to submit their projects to a panel of international scienThe name mango is derived from the Tamil word mangkay or mangay. When the Portuguese traders settled in Western India they adopted the name as manga or mango. They first came to India, across the oceans, about 500 years ago. As they settled down in parts of India, they discovered the mango. They seemed to want more of it so they started experimenting with new varieties of mango -- the famous Alphonso or Mulgoa that we cherish today, is the result of their hard work.

tists. The winner will receive a 10-day trip to Galapagos Islands with National Geographic expeditions, $50,000 in scholarship funding and other prizes. The Google Science Fair is an online science competition started in 2011. It is open to students of 13-18 years of age, who formulate hypothesis, perform experiments, and present results to a panel of experts.

Here we are giving your child an opportunity to enjoy our funny tongue twisters for kids and have fun trying to say some of the most difficult sentences . To get the full effect of a tongue twister you should try to repeat it several times, as quickly as possible, without stumbling.

Busy buzzing bumble bees. Six slippery snails, slid slowly seaward. How much rain does a rain drop drop if a raindrop could drop rain. Two-two won one too. If you notice this notice, you will notice that this notice is not worth noticing. Cooks cook cupcakes quickly.

IANS

Put your puzzle solving skills to the test with our Cartoon word scramble. Look carefully at the jumble words and try unscrambling words related to Famous Cartoon characters? OYSPNO USBG NBNYU FDELGARI OYSBOC ODO CEMYIK UESMO XREEDT

Learn how to spot birds with your own homemade binoculars.

Make Your Own Handmade binoculars

Help me Find my way

Adamant Meaning- Unyielding, refusing to change. Example- The lawyer was adamant about her clients innocence . Benign Meaning- Pleasant and kind attitude Example- The Dalai Lama carries his benign message of love and kindness to followers worldwide. Callous Meaning- Emotionally hardened, unfeeling Example- Many thought the judge was callous and mean, but he had a heart of gold. Defy Meaning- To oppose or resist with boldness Example- My father gets very angry when I defy him. Answers to Word Scramble : Snoopy, Bugs Bunny, Garfield, Scooby Doo, Mickey Mouse, Dexter

What do you require? 2 toilet paper rolls Single hole punch Glue Yarn or string Paint colors or colored tape Steps 1.Grab two toilet paper rolls and sta-

ple them together. 2.Help your kids punch a hole in each side of the binoculars. 3.Tie the ribbon/yarn through the holes. 4.Optional: decorate the binoculars with paint colors or colored tape. 5.You may also cover the roll with colored cellophane as the lens. 6.Go outside with them and look out for birds through their creation.

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.

-Pablo Picasso Spanish painter

20

BUSINESS
Bangalore The Indian IT industry Wednesday welcomed the exemption from service tax and refund for units operating in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) as the modification will enable doing business at ease. The new notification exempts about 80 percent of services used by SEZ units from service tax and modifies its refund formula as the earlier formula was skewed, industry body National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) president Som Mittal said in a statement here. In a notification earlier in the day, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) notified the new rules and modified the refund formula for IT firms operating in SEZs. Among the services used by the units are leased line, telecom, manpower supply, software licensing, renting and maintenance. The notification also allows consolidated filing by multiple units with a common service tax registration and makes compliance easier, Mittal pointed out. Noting that the new rules would ensure a transparent, fair and timely exemption and refund process for the software firms operating in SEZs, Mittal said the governments gesture

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

AirAsia to invest $30 mn for Indian JV; IT industry welcomes tax sops for SEZ units to offer free tickets

New Delhi Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia initially plans to invest $30 million in its Indian joint venture airline with the Tata Group, its chief executive officer Tony Fernandes said. The potential of India was always there in my eyes. I was waiting for the market to become conducive for us so that we can stay here for a fairly long time and I think the tide is now turning very quickly. So we felt that this is the right time to come to India, he said, addressing a press meet. Apart from this, the company is eyeing the Indian insurance market through its Tune Money venture. Tune Money is into travel protection plans and lifestyle protection plans. It is also planning to expand its Tune Hotels - budget hotels - in India. At present it has one in Gujarat. Fernandes is hopeful that the airline operations can start from October. Fernandes met Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh. The company has already applied for a no-objection certificate. Asked how much marketshare the company has been eyeing in the Indian low-cost carrier space, Fernandes said: I am not here to take away marketshare. But given Indias potential of 1.3 billion population,

14 coal blocks allocated to government units

this could be the largest AirAsia operation. The company is planning to start from south India, with Chennai as its head office. Fernandes mentioned that the airline can have many bases in the southern part of the country like Bangalore, Chennai and Kochi. He added that the ministers in south India were cooperative with him. A small thing, which we can do is to inform and educate the people about benefits of their travel. We are not here for vested interest, we are here to deliver. I see ourselves emerging as a vibrant airline company with two-three big players eventually. Fernandes plans to further bring down airline fares in India as he feels these are now ruling at a higher range. He pointed out that many domestic airline fares in India are higher than travelling to international destinations by AirAsia. The company also plans to look at international routes from India as Fernandes feels that India is a fantastic location to connect to Africa and the Gulf countries. Putting a lot of thrust on bringing down airfare, to make it more affordable for the common man, he said: My dream is to replicate our tagline Everyone can fly, where every common man has flown, like in Malaysia. Competition brings more choice. He plans to offer even a few free air tickets when the airline starts operations in India. The recruitment process for the Indian operations has started, AirAsia India head Mittu Chandilya confirmed. We are recruiting around 200 people

initially. We are hand-picking people. Fernandes told that the company is getting applications from the defunct Kingfisher Airlines now-jobless exemployees as well. Speaking about aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, Fernandes said though these were 30 percent higher in the Indian market, the company will find ways to mitigate this. He also criticized Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy for calling the companys deal with the Tata group as fraudulent. It is a shame that India has lost many years to vested interest. The South (east) Asian aviation industry is far, far ahead of India. There are some bizarre rules; five years time before you can fly internationally! There are too many people who have vested interest, and they do not think of what India needs, he said. Here are some other highlights of the press conference: -- Company will allow upto 15 kg of free luggage like any other Indian carrier. -- It is looking at redistribution of tickets in India through both online and offline channels. AirAsia runs a joint venture portal with Expedia and it is an exclusive online distribution channel for the airline. -- Fernandes feels Air India should not be in the hands of Indian government anymore, it should be with a private player. -- AirAsia is looking at leveraging Tata Groups experience in handling Indian politico-economic scenario into the new airline JV.
IANS

would help instil confidence and promote growth of the export-led industry. Clarification on availing Cenvat credit, an excise tax levied on goods or services at point of source, will enable firms with domestic operations to leverage it instead of applying for refund, Mittal observed. Lauding the CBDT for withdrawing March 26 circular levying tax on research and development (R&D) centres of multinationals in the country, Mittal said the decision would facilitate more investments into the sector from global players. Withdrawal of circular number 2 on imposing tax on R&D centres and amendment to circular number 3 of March 26 with new guidelines for identifying contract R&D service provider are positive measures for the industry, especially multinationals, which have a strong base in India, Mittal added. Nasscom also hoped the CBDT would soon issue guidelines on the safe harbour provision as recommended by the Rangachary Committee on taxation of development centres in the IT sector. The panel was set up by the prime minister last year on a representation by Nasscom and the recommendations were made in September.

Reserve Bank should transform into knowledge institution

Chennai The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should transform into a knowledge institution to meet the challenges posed in the changing global economic scenario, said an official. During the last five years the world has passed through an extraordinary economic crisis. The central banks across the world were blamed for that. Hence the central bank across the globe have to undergo a change, D. Subbarao, governor, said here Wednesday at the RBI Staff College golden jubilee function. According to him, the RBI could not afford to work out of Ivory Tower and had to be attentive to the happenings in the world. He said the RBI should become a knowledge institution and transform knowledge into wisdom. Subbarao said the RBI should be able to manage the policy in a globalised world and have an open mind to learn from the events that were happening.

New Delhi The government has allocated 14 coal blocks to state-run companies to cater for power generation capacity of 31,800 MW, a coal ministry statement said here Wednesday. An investment of Rs.1,60,000 crore has been envisaged for the purpose. The 14 blocks have geological reserves of 8,311 million tonnes, capable of yielding about 159 MT coal production per annum Around 15 states and 6 central public sector undertakings, including NTPC and Neyveli Lignite Corp, have been allocated the coal blocks. The allotments have been made for the first time since 2008 when the government planned to allocate coal blocks through auction. The coal ministry had invited applications for the blocks on Dec 31, 2012. Some of the coal blocks because of their size have been given to more than one state-run company. The Deocha-Pachami block in West Bengal having a reserve of 2102 MT has been given to six different state power companies, while the Mahajanvadi block in Maharashtra with reserves of 340 MT has gone to units from Gujarat and Maharashtra.
IANS

Microsoft seeking space in Keralas Technopark: Official

Thiruvananthapuram Global software giant Microsoft is seeking space in the Technopark campus here, a top official of the IT department said. Preliminary reports suggest that they are serious (about taking space at Technopark). Things will become clearer in some days, the official, who did not wish to be named, told IANS. Construction work in the one million square feet campus with state-ofthe-art gold rated buildings has been completed, the official said. Some of the leading IT firms that have taken space in Technopark Phase-3 include HCL, Oracle and CapGemini. Tecnopark Phase-3 is spread over 92 acres and consists of two buildings - Aanamudi and Ponmudi - named after famous mountain peaks in the state. We have given nod to 25 IT companies who will use our plug-andplay facility. Each of these firms will

He said the RBI should be able to make mature, balanced and intelligent judgment and should be open, communicative as well as consultative. One of the important attributes that he listed out was that the RBI should take accountability, be positive and driven by values. Subbarao said the RBI will come out with a code off ethics and justified the central banks decision to allow corporate groups to enter the banking sector due to changing global scenario and in the national interest.

have 20-50 employees. We have earmarked 60,000 square feet for them and they will start operations from Sep 1, the IT department official added. The plug-and-play facility has been designed to attract young entrepreneurs who are not in a position to make huge investments. Technopark Phase-3 also comprises shopping malls, a commercial complex, a hotel and a convention centre. The IT park currently has 280 companies providing employment to more than 40,000 professionals directly and around 150,000 people indirectly. IANS

Bharti Airtel raises stake in Qualcomm Indias broadband entities

New Delhi Telecom service provider Bharti Airtel has raised its stake to 51 percent in the Indian broadband venture of Qualcomm, the company said in a statement. it has subscribed to an additional 2 percent equity share capital in all the four India BWA (broadband wireless access) entities of Qualcomm. With this, all four entities are now subsidiaries of Bharti Airtel, the statement said. On May 24, 2012 Bharti Airtel and Qualcomm had announced an agreement under which Bharti Airtel had acquired 49 percent interest in Qualcoms India entities that hold BWA licences in Delhi and Mumbai, as well as in Haryana and Kerala. -Bharti Airtel is a leading global telecommunications service provider with operations in 20 countries IANS across Asia and Africa.

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

BUSINESS
Kathmandu Energy-hungry Nepal has cleared the decks for Indian investment in the 44 MW Super Madi Hydropower Project in Kaski district in the countrys western region. The Industrial Promotion Board (IPB), at a meeting chaired by Industry and Finance Minister Shanker Prasad Koirala, decided to allow Coastal Projects Limited India to invest in the project. The project, being developed by Himal Hydro and General Construction Limited, had sought the governments permission to bring foreign investment for the project, according to a statement released after the meeting. Super Madi, which holds a construction licence for electricity generation, is seeking to bring foreign investment from its Coastal Project Limited India. According to information posted on Himal Hydros website, Coastal Projects India has a majority share holding (82.21 percent) in Nepal Jalabidyut Prabardhan Tatha Bikas Ltd, which in turn has 78 percent stake in Himal Hydro. According to the website, it will take four years to complete the project. The industry ministry, in its press statement, said the total capital of the project is IRs.4 billion (NRs.6.40 billion). It was a welcome step to harness investment in Nepal. We need to create more investment-friendly environment to invite such Indian investment in various economic and infrastructure-related projects, Chirinjivi Nepal, chief economic adviser to Koirala, told IANS. He expressed the confidence that more foreign direct investment will pour into Nepal once elections are held, pointing out that it is difficult to harness such investment without political stability. Various Indian investors and companies are in the fray and are in talks with the government of Nepal to boost its hydro-potential. To this end, at present, two Indian compa-

21

`Brazils economy to grow two percent this year

Nepal allows Coastal Projects India to invest in hydropower project

nies, GMR and Sutlej, are in talks with the government of Nepal to sign Power Development Agreements (PDAs) to develop the 900 MW Upper Karnali Hydro Electric project and Arun-III -- the most promising projects in Nepal which were awarded to Indian companies through the first ever International Competitive Bidding process. Besides these two, 30 other Indian companies have obtained survey licence issued by the government to Indian companies/joint ventures. Nepal has the hydropower potential to transform it from one of the poorest countries in the world to one of the most developed, but it has not been able to tap its resources due to lack of funds, the insurgency and political instability. While India is the most practical partner for developing and selling power, Nepal has so far been unable to develop any relationship due to unnecessary politicisation of the energy sector in Nepal.

Brasilia The Brazilian economy will expand by 2 percent in 2013 and manufacturing will grow barely 1 percent, the National Confederation of Industry, or CNI, said. Those figures represent a significant downward revision from the CNIs March forecast, which predicted 2.6 percent growth in manufacturing and a gain of 3.2 percent in gross domestic product. The current economic environment, both internal and external, determines the Brazilian economy for 2013, which will be a year of reduced growth and elevated inflation, the CNI said in its secondquarter evaluation.

Bihar gets coal block for thermal power projects

Brazils government continues to work with a projection of 3.5 percent GDP growth this year, though Finance Minister Guido Mantega has acknowledged the forecast should be adjusted downward. Responses to the central banks latest weekly survey of private sector analysts point to an expansion of 2.4 percent in 2013. The CNI also dialed back its expectations for growth in domestic consumption, from 3.5 percent to 2.3 percent. The model of economic growth reliant on domestic consumption no longer holds up, the CNI said, advocating an increase in competitiveness and a strong renewal of investment.

New Aakash computers are about quality: Prof Jhunjuhunwala

Aakash is a series of Android-based tablet computers promoted as a learning tool by the Human Resource Development ministry. A new version of this tablet was announced Wednesday. Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, the man behind the Aakash 4 specifications at Indian Institute of Technology - Madras, responds to criticism over its proposed specifications. Q: Why have these specs for Aakash 4 changed so little from version 2? A: The focus in Aakash 4 has been on quality, ensuring that multiple vendors can supply us, and that we can measure quality. Q: Yes, but technology has changed. Yet even the processor spec has not been been updated to, say, dual-core! A: The specs for the Aakash 4 CPU are based on performance, rather than single or dual core, or clock speed in MHz, or even the CPU type. Many performance and quality issues have been touched upon in the specs. The testing and acceptance criteria have also been defined. Q: Why are basic features like cellular data and phone call capability being kept as optional extras? A: The primary connectivity is envisaged as Wi-Fi. Secondary connectivity will be through USB, and any modem can be connected to it. Two USB ports are in the specs. The tablet is primarily for data connectivity. 2G is too slow for any significant educational use. 3G or 4G would become very expensive, but can be used through USB by those who can afford it. Bluetooth has also been added. Q: But a dongle for a phone call? Does such a dongle even exist? A: Yes, dongles can be used with USB. They exist. Q: The procurement price, up to Aakash 2, was Rs.2263 excluding taxes. You had indicated this would be in the range of Rs.2,500 for the next round, but there are reports now of this going up to Rs.3,000, due to the rupees decline? A: We expect the price to be around Rs.2,500 in volume and we expect multiple manufacturers to progressively manufacture in India and supply it. IANS

Patna The central government has allocated a separate coal block for three upcoming thermal power projects in electricity starved Bihar, a state minister said here Friday. It is a big relief for Bihar. The coal block has been allocated for three thermal power projects in the state after a long wait, Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav told. The minister added that the centre has allocated a coal block in West Bengal for the upcoming projects at Pirpainti in Bhagalpur district, Kajra in Lakhisarai and Chausa in Buxar. Earlier this year, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had sought the intervention of Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia for the allocation of coal linkages for these projects. Bihar badly needed more power for development, Yadav said, adding that the state government would now aim to complete the projects soon. Officials of energy department said that each upcoming thermal power project has the capacity to produce 1,320 MW electricity. The coal block allocation would boost the states power generation capacity by 3,960 MW, said an official who did not wish to be named. While Bihars daily power requirement is nearly 3,000 MW, the state produces merely 100 MW, a Bihar State Electricity Board official said. The central government supplies less than 1,800 MW power to the state. Thus, Bihar is facing a deficit of over 1,100 MW, the official added.

22
IPL scam: Bookies were to approach Shane Watson: Cops
New Delhi Australian cricketer Shane Watson was to be approached by the bookies for spot-fixing in Indian Premier League (IPL) before the 2013 series, said Delhi Police. Rajasthan Royals player Ajit Chandila, bookies Jitender and Manan had planned to approach Watson for the spot-fixing in February this year, revealed a Delhi Police officer on the basis of a statement given by a team member of Rajasthan Royals, Harmeet Singh. The statement was also recorded before a magistrate under section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code Wednesday, the officer said. Harmeet Singh, 19, was approached by Chandila who fixed a meeting at a hotel located at Mumbais Bandra area, where bookies urged him to indulge in IPL spot-fixing. The player turned down the offer. They also talked about Watson. But, Chandila said it would be difficult, Harmeet said in the statement. His name surfaced during questioning of Jitender, who was arrested by Delhi Police last month.

SPORTS
Mumbai Virat Kohli will lead India while Parvez Rasool becomes the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to be included in the 15-member squad for the tour to Zimbabwe in July-August. Regular skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni is out with a hamstring injury which he suffered during Indias first tri-series match against the West Indies. India will play five One-Day Internationals (ODIs) -- three in Harare and two at Bulawayo -- against Zimbabwe between July 24 and Aug 3. Alongwith Rasool, Mohit Sharma too makes a first appearance in the team while Cheteshwar Pujara, Jaydev Unadkat and Ajinkya Rahane make a comeback to the side. Meanwhile, opening batsman Murali Vijay has been dropped from the squad while four bowlers Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar -have been rested. Vijay, however, has been included in the India A side, also announced Fri-

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Kohli to lead India, Rasool in squad for Zimbabwe

Delhi Police busted the scandal with the arrest of three Royals players - S. Sreesanth, Ankit Chavan and Chandila - and 11 bookies from Mumbai May 16. According to police, 18 more people were arrested. Twenty-one accused in the case, including Sreesanth and Chavan, have been granted bail by the court.

Ronaldo commits to Madrid, Carvajal returns

Madrid Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo said that his future lay with the Spanish club. The Portuguese international brushed aside rumours linking him with a return to Manchester United. The fact that Ronaldos current contract expires in two years and he has shown few inclinations to sign a new deal with the Spanish club has provoked thoughts that United may try and re-sign him, reports. Until now, Ronaldo has done little to quell the rumours by referring to his love for the English club and the Premier League. However, his latest declarations appear to have poured some cold water on stories of his possible return. Everyone knows that Manchester United is a club that has been in my heart for a long time and everyone knows the passion I have for that club but my future is with Real Madrid. I have been here for four seasons and I want to continue, said Ronaldo. We have to do better than last season, we have to do everything possible to win the league and the Champions League with Madrid, while I also hope to qualify for the World

day, which will tour South Africa to play a tri-series including Australia A and South Africa A Aug 8-14. Cheteshwar Pujara will lead the India A side, which will also play two four-day matches against South Africa A following the tri-series. The following is the India squad for the tour of Zimbabwe: Virat Kohli (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Dinesh Karthik, Cheteshwar Pujara, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra

Jadeja, Amit Mishra, Parvez Rasool, Mohammed Shami, Vinay Kumar, Jaidev Unadkat, Mohit Sharma. The following is the India A squad for the tour to South Africa: Cheteshwar Pujara (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Murali Vijay, Rohit Sharma, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, Ajinkya Rahane, Wriddhiman Saha, Parvez Rasool, Shahbaz Nadeem, Mohammed Shami, Stuart Binny, Ishwar Chand Pandey, Jaidev Unadkat, Siddharth Kaul.

Kenya to unleash new talent at World Youth Championships

Nairobi Kenyas production line has religiously evolved churning out top talents, who have gone on to dominate at the World Youth Athletics Championships. This is an elementary competition in track and field which is eligible for athletes who are 17 years or younger. The tourney has been held biennially ever since its debut in 1999 in Bydgoszcz, Poland, reports Xinhua. Kenya and US have ruled the event exchanging leads at will. In Lille, France, two years ago, US edged out Kenya clinching 16 medals - six gold, four silver and six bronze. Kenya was content with 14 - five gold, five silver and four bronze. Now Kenya track and field president Isaiah Kiplagat has sounded the war drums and will eye US scalp in Donetsk, Ukraine from July 10-14. The world will always focus on Kenya. That is why we have gone the extra mile to prepare you well for the challenge ahead. It is important that you do well there so that you leave a mark for the senior team to beat when they compete at the World Championships in Moscow in August, Kiplagat said Thursday. Among you are names that will shock the world. You will curve your niche and dominate in events for long. But you must be focused and follow the coaches instructions. Your success in Donetsk will serve as a pointer to a better performance by Kenya in Moscow, said Kiplagat while addressing young Kenyan athletes. Head coach Kariuki Gekonyo has developed several athletes who have come on to dominate the track and field. He has warned US, who will be out to defend their crown. Kiplagat said the squad was shaping up for 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. The team will depart from Nairobi Sunday for Ukraine. IANS

Cup finals with Portugal, added the striker. Friday also saw Real Madrid present young rightback Dani Carvajal. The former Real Madrid B-team player returns to the club at a cost of around six million euros after a year with German side Bayer Leverkusen during which he was named as the best right in the Bundesliga. At the presentation, Real Madrid

president Florentino Perez said the Spain Under-21 international had earned the chance to return to the club while Carvajal said he was very satisfied to have returned to his origins as a footballer. I have been a Real Madrid player since I was 10 and I have always been taught to respect my coaches, said the defender.
IANS

IOC presidential candidates Franchise concept will catch on in the Caribbean, says CPL official make presentations
Geneva Six candidates made their presentations in their run for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidency. It is the first time that campaign speeches have been delivered in an IOC presidential election, reports Xinhua. With more than 80 IOC members in the hall, Thursdays presentations were made behind closed doors and no questions were allowed. Running for the election are Richard Carrion of Puerto Rico, IOC vice presidents Thomas Bach of Germany and Ng Ser Miang of Singapore, executive board members SerBridgetown (Barbados) An official of the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) says he is confident fans will adjust to the new franchise concept when the Twenty20 bowls off later this month. Paul Skinner, Event Operations Officer for the Barbados leg of the CPL, says the same would have applied for fans of the Indian Premier League (IPL) when it was inaugurated, reports CMC. Barbados will be the first port of call for the CPL, hosting what is expected to be a glitzy opening ceremony and the maiden game between Barbados Tridents and St Lucia Zouks, at Kensington Oval July 30. It is one of those things where you have to get accustomed. The first year the IPL was run, it was a case of getting used to players who may not have necessarily come from the particular city, but who were playing for those cities, Skinner explained. But thats the whole essence of the franchise system where players are selected from wherever they are within the region, to play for a particular team. Barbados Tridents will be captained by West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago big-hitter Kieron Pollard, and includes the likes of Trinidadian Shannon Gabriel, the Pakistani duo of Shoaib Malik and Umar Akmal, and superstar Bangladeshi all-rounder Shakib al Hasan. However, several Barbadians populate the 15-man squad, with Dwayne Smith, Kyle Mayers, Raymon Reifer, Jason Holder, Ashley Nurse, Car-

gei Bubka of Ukraine and C.K. Wu of Chinese Taipei and former board member Denis Oswald of Switzerland. IOC president Jacques Rogge is leaving after 12 years in office. His successor will be elected by secret ballot Sep 10 in Buenos Aires.

los Brathwaite, Jonathan Carter and Kirk Edwards, all included. It is a new concept and with anything new, there will be a period of adjustment, said Skinner, who has worked extensively in the past with the IPL. Yes we have a Trinidadian captaining a team that is in Barbados but when he goes and plays cricket in Mumbai, he is a Trinidadian playing cricket in Mumbai so there is not really much difference. The CPL will feature an array of Caribbean and international stars contesting 24 matches, played across Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago, from July 30 to Aug 24.
IANS

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

SPORTS
Mirza, Bopanna, Paes lose at Wimbledon
London It was a bad day in office for Indian tennis players at Wimbledon as Leander Paes, Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza lost their respective matches. While Paes lost his mens doubles semifinal, Mirza went out of the mixed doubles at the quarterfinal stage. Bopanna on the other hand, lost both his, mens doubles semifinal and mixed doubles quarterfinal, matches on the lone grass court major. Bopanna partnering Frances Edouard Roger-Vasselin lost a five-set battle to top seeds Bob and Mike Bryan of the United States. The 14th seeds lost 7-6(4), 4-6, 3-6, 7-5, 3-6 in two hours and 48 minutes on Court No.1. This was Bopannas best ever mens doubles outing at Wimbledon, having reached the quarterfinal previously in 2010. Returning to play on the same court after a couple of hours, Bopanna also lost his mixed doubles tie, partnering Chinas Zheng Jie, to Dutch-Russian duo Jean-Julien Rojer and Vera Dushevina, who beat the seventh seeds 6-3, 6-3, 6-3 in one hour and 31 minutes. This was, too, the Bangaloreans best ever performance at the All England Club in this category. Meanwhile on Court No.2, fourth seeded veterans Paes with Czech partner Radek Stepanek also lost a fivesetter to Croat-Brazilian pairing Ivan Dodig and Marcelo Melo. The 12th seeds won 3-6, 6-4, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in two and 55 min-

23

Brazil back to top-10 in FIFA rankings

Geneva Confederations Cup champions Brazil climbed up 13 places to ninth in the latest FIFA world rankings released Thursday. Despite a 0-3 defeat against hosts Brazil in Sundays final, Spain continue to lead the way atop the rankings ahead of Germany and Colombia, which climbed four places to a personal best third, thanks to some impressive performances in the World Cup qualifiers, reports Xinhua. Cote dIvoire leads African teams at No.13 while Africas second best team Ghana dropped three places to 24th. Japan, which also played at the Confederations Cup, leads Asia at No.37 while New Zealand is Oceanias best at No.55, up by two. Rankings as of July 4: 1. Spain 2. Germany 3. Colombia 4. Argentina 5. Netherlands 6. Italy 7. Portugal 8. Croatia 9. Brazil 10. Belgium

hours

Sahara Stadium to host first ODI

utes. This was Paes best outing at Wimbledon mens doubles since 2008, when he reached the semifinals as well. The experienced Indian won the title way back in 1999 with Mahesh Bhupathi. Mirza, Indias only female representative, also lost in the mixed battle. Eighth seeded Canadian-French pair

Daniel Nestor and Kristina Mladenovic upset second seeds Horia Tecau of Romania and Mirza 7-6(5), 7-6(5) in one hour and 46 minutes. Mirza equalled her best performance here in mixed doubles. Her previous best was the last eight stage in 2011.
IANS

India ready to hold some of Bangladeshs World T20 matches

Mumbai The Subrata Roy Sahara Stadium will host its first One-Day International (ODI) when Australia tour India for one Twenty20 and seven ODIs during October-November. All the ODIs will be day-and-night matches starting at 2.30 p.m., said a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) statement. The following are the ODI fixtures: Pune (Oct 13), Jaipur (Oct 16), Mohali (Oct 19), Ranchi (Oct 23), Cuttack (Oct 26), Nagpur (Oct 30), Bangalore (Nov 2). The lone T20I will be played ahead of the ODI series Oct 10 at Rajkot, beginning at 7 p.m. The Sahara Stadium hosted the first T20I in December last year when India beat England by five wickets. Australia last visited India for a seven-match ODI series in OctoberNovember 2009, when they won 4-2 while their last bilateral ODI series in India was a three-match series in October 2010, of which two were washed out and India won the only game in Visakhapatnam.
IANS

Buenos Aires to host 2018 Youth Olympics

I would like to congratulate Buenos Aires and their bid team for their dedication to and enthusiasm for the youth project. I have no doubt they will build on the successes of Singapore 2010 and Nanjing 2014 to provide a platform on which the best young athletes from around the world can compete and learn about the Olympic values. The announcement was the

Kolkata The Indian cricket board has given a guarantee that it would host some games of the ICC World Twenty20 championship if organisers Bangladesh fail to ready two of the four proposed venues by the August deadline set by the International Cricket Council. We are ready to hold some of the games. We have given a guarantee that we will have some stand-by venues to help Bangladesh in such a situation, Board of Control for Cricket in Indias interim chief Jagmohan Dalmiya told media persons Thursday, a day after returning home after attending the ICC annual conference in London. Dissatisfied over the pace of work

at the two proposed staging centres - Coxs Bazar and Sylhet, the ICCs International Development (IDI) board has decided to carry out another inspection of the venues in August after which it would take the final call on the issue. ICC rules mandate that venues for its tournaments should be ready six months ahead of the competition. The tournament is slated to be played between March 16 and April 6 next year. Calling it a difficult situation, Dalmiya said: We will be definitely be there to help them if they inform us six months in advance. With India slated to host the World T20 in 2016, the second World Test Championship in 2021 and

the World Cup in 2023, Dalmiya said: We have got the major share of the cake. We will play a major role in the global events from 2016-2023. The credit goes to the BCCI. India scored a major victory in the recent ICC annual conference with the apex governing body of the game maintaining status quo on the Decision Review System, but Dalmiya contended that the BCCI had not bulldozed anybody. Our major point was DRS is not 100 percent foolproof, and so there is little reason to discuss it. The ICC decided to maintain status quo - that is it will be in force in only bilateral series when both teams agree.

Lausanne (Switzerland) The third Youth Olympics will be hosted by Buenos Aires in 2018, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge announced Thursday following a vote by the IOC members at an Extraordinary IOC Session here. Buenos Aires (Argentina) was elected ahead of Glasgow (Great Britain) and Medelln (Colombia). Prior to the vote, the candidate cities each had 15 minutes to give a presentation to the session, followed by questions. We had three excellent candidates from which to choose a host city today, each with the capability of staging memorable Youth Olympic Games in 2018, said IOC President Rogge.

culmination of a bidding process launched in September 2011, which originally included six cities - the three other cities were Guadalajara (Mexico), Poznan (Poland) and Rotterdam (Netherlands). After a thorough review of the candidature files and other relevant documentation submitted by five of the cities (Poznan withdrew from the bidding process), the IOC Working Group, led by Claudia Bokel, presented a report to the IOC Executive Board (EB). Based on this report, the EB announced Buenos Aires, Glasgow and Medelln as shortlisted candidates at a meeting in Lausanne in February 2013. The second Youth Olympics will be held in Nanjing, China Aug 16-28, IANS 2014.

24 Quick tips to avoid dating disasters

Getting ready for a date? Experts suggest avoid certain things like talking about ex-partners, excess alcohol intake and physical intimacy. We are sharing quick tips to avoid dating disasters:

CHANDIGARH SUNDAY 07 July 2013

Reality shows set cash registers ringing for dance institutes

New Delhi Dance institutes across India are laughing all the way to the bank thanks to parents new-found fascination for TV reality shows. There is a big boom in the industry for the past two years. It is amazing to see how the mindset of parents has changed towards dance. They no more frown if their child wants to join a dance class, Atul Jindal, one of the founders of Delhi-based Big Dance Centre, told. A qualified dancer from a New York institute, the 29-year-old was initially disappointed with the lukewarm response when he decided to make dance his bread and butter. It was extremely difficult for them (students) or us to convince parents that dance isnt a waste of time. Today, the tables have turned, he said, adding the response now is overwhelming enough to keep the staff busy from morning till evening. In the not ,too, distant past, dance was confined to the big, bad Bollywood - every parents nightmare. The only possible job profile one could think of was that of a choreographer. Hence, the taboo of dance continued. Till a flurry of dance reality shows changed the equation. Indias pioneering dance reality show, Boogie Woogie, which went on air in 1995, laid the foundation for others like Dance India Dance, Just Dance, Indias Got Talent, Dancing Queen, Dance Premier League,Chak Dhoom Dhoom, Jhalak Dikhla Jaa and Nachle Ve that set the stage for the big leap. Even cities like Meerut in Uttar Pradesh are not left untouched. The mentality towards dance is changing thanks to the reality shows, said Yasmani Shakya, a choreographer who teaches at the Imagine Dance Academy. Earlier people didnt know about different dance forms. They just knew Bollywood. But the push these shows have given to dance is maniamong the community if their child is on a dance show. Be it a small town or a big city, glamour sells and everyone wants to be associated with it, said Shambu Kumar who founded his Music, Arts and Dance Academy in 2008. From 15 students per class to 50 in a class, the enrolments are growing. But theres a flip side. When you see small children on these shows pouting and making vulgar gestures, you just wonder what their parents are thinking. There has to be an age limit. Isnt it cruel? Where is the innocence left? Shambu Kumar asked. Many like Amit Jain balance their passion and studies. These platforms do come with temporary fame but no life-time guarantee. Anyone can be a dancer after a few classes, but not everyone is born to dance, said Jain who is in his second year of college and is taking dance classes. In an attempt to treat dance as a serious profession, Jindal started a three-month professional dance course, Professional Dance Study Programme, in 2009. We really want people to take it (dance) seriously. Dance is not about just knowing a few steps of a particular dance. Its about mastering the technicalities, he said. In our course, we also speak about injury prevention and exercises for strengthening muscles. There are also yoga sessions and diet-sessions. It is important to listen to your body and understand it, Jindal added. From nine students to 120 students now, Jindals institute charges Rs. 20,000 for the course. Arent western influences corrupting Indian classical dance forms? It is a cycle, I believe. Just like the 70s and 80s have come back in Bollywood and fashion, we too will be going back to our roots, Jindal said. After all, this is where we belong, he added.

Conversation Theres nothing worse than an awkward silence on a date, so indulge in healthy conversation and talk about various subjects to keep the conversation flowing. If youve met via online, browse his profile to know more about his interests. Avoid conversations about your ex-partners and weather.

Alcohol Intake Avoid alcohol before going on a date. But if you choose to drink, then make sure you dont take more than two shots as it always works well. Theres nothing more unattractive than a woman slurring her words and crying about how her ex-partner, that too when she is out on a date.

Dress Comfortably Look your best. Go for stylish yet comfortable dresses. But dont wear something that could provide a wardrobe malfunction moment. Apart from outfit, wear matching accessories and comfortable shoes. Avoid heels if you are not used to wearing it.

fold, said Shakya, adding people have moved on from the Salsa and the Tango and are now adding hiphop, ballet and other forms to their repertoire. Lured by the idea of fame and money, seeing their children on television, and meeting celebrities, is driving many parents blind. This herd mentality, at times, can be dangerous. The middle-class aspirations for glamour can be dangerous. The taboo associated with dance is no more there, but not everyone can be a choreographer. You can pursue a passion as long as it feeds you, Lourd Vijay, founder of Lourd Vijays Dance Studio in Bangalore, told. If you are good, reality shows are an excellent platform. But competition has become extremely stiff. So one has to use ones imagination, be observant and learn something every day to be successful, he added. Shambhu Kumar from Patna felt similarly. It is a matter of pride for parents

No Sex If you ever want to see him again, then dont get intimate with your partner on your first date. If the date went well, then let him know by giving a gentle peck on cheek and wait for him to call you for a second date.

Time and Place Decide and go to a place that both of you are familiar with. So that you dont have trouble finding it later. Make sure that the time suits both of you. Also, confirm it in the morning so that you know exactly when youre meeting.

One Bedroom Super Area 734.36 Sqft

(Approx.)

Two Bedroom Super Area 1237.52 Sqft

(Approx.)

ThreeBedroom Super Area 1550 Sqft

(Approx.)

FLATS AT SUNNY HEIGHTS AND NRI RETREATS

Bajwa Developers Limited

For more details please contact

Corporate Office: SCO 17-18,Desu Majra, Sunny Enclave, Kharar, Sector 125, Mohali,140 301 (Punjab) Phone: 0160-5009525-26,9914328235,9914328327,9914328827 Chandigarh Office: SCO 6 & 7, 2nd Floor,8 C Phone: 0172-2713222,9914328235 Email: js_bajwadevelopers@yahoo.com

Printer, Owner and Publisher: Manu Sharma, Editor: Manu Sharma, RNI Reg. No.: PUNMUL/2012/45041 Postal Reg. No. PB/JL-047/2013-15. Published at Central Town, Jalandhar Printed at: Tej Mohan Nagar Jalandhar