Pope tweets for the first time
Vatican City, Jun 29 (AP)
Pope Benedict XVI has tweeted for the first time, announcing the launch of a Vatican news information portal.Benedict's tweet yesterday read: "Dear Friends, I just launched News.va Praised be our Lord Jesus Christ! With my prayers and blessings, Benedictus XVI".
The portal www.news.va for the first time aggregates information from the Vatican's various print, online, radio and television media. It's the latest effort by the Vatican to bring its evangelizing message to a greater, Internet-savvy audience and follows forays into Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Benedict put the site online himself by tapping an iPad, said Thaddeus Jones, project coordinator and an official with the Pontifical Council for Social Communications. Moments later the pope sent the tweet.The 84-year-old pontiff was then shown the portal and its features in greater detail.Jones described him as "interested and impressed," and "clearly enjoying it.""He was clearly in awe at the new technology," said Jones. "It's a lighter moment but also an important one, it marks a new way of communicating."
Pope Benedict XVI has tweeted for the first time, announcing the launch of a Vatican news information portal.Benedict's tweet yesterday read: "Dear Friends, I just launched News.va Praised be our Lord Jesus Christ! With my prayers and blessings, Benedictus XVI".
The portal www.news.va for the first time aggregates information from the Vatican's various print, online, radio and television media. It's the latest effort by the Vatican to bring its evangelizing message to a greater, Internet-savvy audience and follows forays into Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Benedict put the site online himself by tapping an iPad, said Thaddeus Jones, project coordinator and an official with the Pontifical Council for Social Communications. Moments later the pope sent the tweet.The 84-year-old pontiff was then shown the portal and its features in greater detail.Jones described him as "interested and impressed," and "clearly enjoying it.""He was clearly in awe at the new technology," said Jones. "It's a lighter moment but also an important one, it marks a new way of communicating."
India rules out getting involved in Afghan security affairs
Washington, Jun 29 (PTI)
As the Obama Administration begins drawdown of American troops from Afghanistan next month, India has informed the US that it would not be involved in the security affairs of the war-torn country, but would continue with its developmental efforts there.This was conveyed by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in his interaction with the Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the National Security Advisor Tom Donilon yesterday when he discussed with them the situation in India's immediate neighbourhood.
"We do not want to get involved in the security affairs of Afghanistan," Mukherjee said in response to a question at the media round table giving an insight into his talks with Clinton and Donilon.
Mukherjee, who left for India via New York this afternoon after a three-day trip, was leading a high-powered Indian delegation for the second India-US Economic and Financial Partnership. "We discussed the overall situation, shared our perception, our relationship of strategic partnership. We discussed the geopolitical situation, what is happening in our neighborhood, what we could do," he said.
"USA is interested that there should be dialogue between India, Afghanistan and Pakistan. India should also play a pro-active role in Afghanistan. We discussed these issues and the problems as we look at," the Finance Minister said.
President Barack Obama last week ordered withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, with 30,000 soldiers leaving initially, a process that would continue until the Afghans take over the security in 2014.
The US troop withdrawal will see a first group of 10,000 soldiers brought home this year and another 23,000 by the end of September 2012, two months before American voters decide whether to give President Barack Obama a second term.
"I informed NSA and the Secretary of State that we had resumed dialogue process with Pakistan some time back. Actually it began at the margin of SAARC summit at Thimphu. It was advanced further when Prime Minister invited Pakistani Prime Minister Mr Gilani to watch the cricket match at Mohali," Mukherjee said.
Dialogue has taken place at various levels and next month the Pakistani Foreign Minister is scheduled to visit New Delhi for talks, he said. "Therefore the important ingredient of the structured dialogue has started at the different levels of the secretaries," he said.
Referring to the recent visit of the Prime Minister to Afghanistan, he said during the visit the Prime Minister announced an additional USD 500 million for Afghanistan. "We are mainly engaged in Afghanistan on building of capacity in different areas, in particularly in areas of social sectors. We are also helping them in infrastructure sector," the Finance Minister said.
Mukherjee said Clinton would be visiting India in the month of July to carry out the Strategic Dialogue.
As the Obama Administration begins drawdown of American troops from Afghanistan next month, India has informed the US that it would not be involved in the security affairs of the war-torn country, but would continue with its developmental efforts there.This was conveyed by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in his interaction with the Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the National Security Advisor Tom Donilon yesterday when he discussed with them the situation in India's immediate neighbourhood.
"We do not want to get involved in the security affairs of Afghanistan," Mukherjee said in response to a question at the media round table giving an insight into his talks with Clinton and Donilon.
Mukherjee, who left for India via New York this afternoon after a three-day trip, was leading a high-powered Indian delegation for the second India-US Economic and Financial Partnership. "We discussed the overall situation, shared our perception, our relationship of strategic partnership. We discussed the geopolitical situation, what is happening in our neighborhood, what we could do," he said.
"USA is interested that there should be dialogue between India, Afghanistan and Pakistan. India should also play a pro-active role in Afghanistan. We discussed these issues and the problems as we look at," the Finance Minister said.
President Barack Obama last week ordered withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, with 30,000 soldiers leaving initially, a process that would continue until the Afghans take over the security in 2014.
The US troop withdrawal will see a first group of 10,000 soldiers brought home this year and another 23,000 by the end of September 2012, two months before American voters decide whether to give President Barack Obama a second term.
"I informed NSA and the Secretary of State that we had resumed dialogue process with Pakistan some time back. Actually it began at the margin of SAARC summit at Thimphu. It was advanced further when Prime Minister invited Pakistani Prime Minister Mr Gilani to watch the cricket match at Mohali," Mukherjee said.
Dialogue has taken place at various levels and next month the Pakistani Foreign Minister is scheduled to visit New Delhi for talks, he said. "Therefore the important ingredient of the structured dialogue has started at the different levels of the secretaries," he said.
Referring to the recent visit of the Prime Minister to Afghanistan, he said during the visit the Prime Minister announced an additional USD 500 million for Afghanistan. "We are mainly engaged in Afghanistan on building of capacity in different areas, in particularly in areas of social sectors. We are also helping them in infrastructure sector," the Finance Minister said.
Mukherjee said Clinton would be visiting India in the month of July to carry out the Strategic Dialogue.
Nationwide BPL survey begins
Agartala, Jun 29 (PTI)
A nationwide socio-economic and caste census to identify people living below poverty line (BPL) was today flagged off from Shankhola, a remote tribal hamlet in Tripura West district.
Rural Development Secretary B K Sinha said, "Those names would be deleted from the list of BPL beneficiaries who own a vehicle or two-wheelers, pucca houses, land phone, fishing trawler besides government employees having income above Rs 10,000 or holders of Kisan Credit Cards with Rs 50,000 or paying income tax."
This was the first time the BPL census would include urban households and Chandigarh would be the first city where the caste census would begin on July 18, he said. Registrar General of India and Census Commissioner C Chandramauli said, "This programme of enumeration of poor in the country would be completed within forty days from today."
The survey is being jointly conducted by Ministry of Rural Development (RD) and Department of Census after 14 years and the officials hoped that the data collected by this census would also help implementing the Food Security Act and providing subsidies to the poor.
A nationwide socio-economic and caste census to identify people living below poverty line (BPL) was today flagged off from Shankhola, a remote tribal hamlet in Tripura West district.
Rural Development Secretary B K Sinha said, "Those names would be deleted from the list of BPL beneficiaries who own a vehicle or two-wheelers, pucca houses, land phone, fishing trawler besides government employees having income above Rs 10,000 or holders of Kisan Credit Cards with Rs 50,000 or paying income tax."
This was the first time the BPL census would include urban households and Chandigarh would be the first city where the caste census would begin on July 18, he said. Registrar General of India and Census Commissioner C Chandramauli said, "This programme of enumeration of poor in the country would be completed within forty days from today."
The survey is being jointly conducted by Ministry of Rural Development (RD) and Department of Census after 14 years and the officials hoped that the data collected by this census would also help implementing the Food Security Act and providing subsidies to the poor.
Curiosity surrounds Kerala temple’s secret chambers
Thiruvananthapuram, June 29, DHNS:The air of curiosity surrounding the secret chambers of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple here only rose on Wednesday as the committee appointed by the Supreme Court to unravel the mystery came across dark chambers and impregnable doors.The seven member committee partly opened the `A’ and `B’ chambers inside the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple here on Wednesday which have not been opened for centuries.The committee found two doors inside the `B’ chamber where lay about 100 silver pots and many silver nuggets. A third door made of steel could not be opened. When the `A’ chamber was opened, it led to an area which was roughly about eight feet radius and a secret chamber downward which was pitch dark.
Attempts to move into this area were abandoned following doubts about the oxygen availability inside. Plans to open the `F’ chamber and make an inventory were abandoned as there were time restrictions on opening chambers which housed pooja materials. The process of preparing an inventory of articles inside the six chambers in the temple began on Monday on the orders of the Supreme Court.
Treasure trove
Sources said that the `C’ chamber which was opened on Tuesday had a treasure trove of gold items including umbrellas, silver pots, gold pots, gold `varpu’ and golden utensils used for pooja. Idols of Shiva, golden serpent forms, rings and thali were also retrieved.
Though the actual worth of the articles is unclear, it is estimated to be about Rs 450 crore. The `C’ chamber is frequently opened to pick items to be used for festivals and rituals. The chambers are being opened under the supervision of former judges M N Krishnan and C S Rajan, Additional Chief Secretary K Jayakumar, Archives Director J Rejikumar, temple executive officer Harikumar, representatives of the Travancore royal family head Uthradom Thirunal Marthandavarma and first respondent advocate T P Sundararajan.
Amarnath yatra begins, Governor offer puja
Srinagar, Jun 29 (UNI) The annual 46-day-long yatra to holy cave shrine of Baba Amarnathji in south Kashmir Himalayas has begun after the gates were thrown open for devotees when Governor N N Vohra had darshan at 0730 hrs of the self-made ice Shivlingam this morning.Mr Vohra is also the chairman of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB). He was accompanied by several board officials and senior security force personnel.The pilgrimage will culminate on August 13, when the Holy Mace of Lord Shiva will be taken inside the cave.More than 2.5 lakh pilgrims have registered themselves for pilgrimage.A UNI correspondent who was present near the cave shrine witnessed more than 8000 pilgrims waiting since last night to proceed towards the Baba Barfani cave shrine.After the Governor completed puja, pilgrims were allowed to proceed towards the cave shrine.Meanwhile, about 10,000 more pilgrims also left from shortest Baltal route and traditional Pahalgam track this morning.These pilgrims had reached the base camps last evening from Jammu.The authorities have made elaborate security arrangements to ensure safe pilgrimage.
50 flights delayed at IGI airport due to server problem
NewDelhi,June 29: Over 50 flights were delayed by around 30 minutes after server of the check-in system at the IGI airport developed some technical problem on Wednesday morning.The problem started around 4 a.m. and the airlines had to check-in manually, airport sources said.Passengers had to stand for hours in long queues at all the airlines counters, they said.In a statement, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) said, “Due to a back-end problem in the system installed for check-in purpose, certain check-in counters went offline at Terminal-3. As a result, passengers on early morning flights were checked-in manually at some counters. No flights were cancelled. However, some flights were delayed by 15-25 minutes.”It said, “Systems were being brought back online by DIAL IT team as well as experts from the vendor of the proprietary system.”
BJP wins Bihar bypoll
PURNIA (BIHAR): Ruling NDA won the bypoll to Purnia assembly constituency where BJP's Kiran Keshri emerged victorious by defeating her nearest LJP-supported Congress rival Ramcharitra Yadav by a margin of 23,665 votes.
Riding on a sympathy wave, Kiran, whose husband and senior party MLA Raj Kishore Keshri was stabbed to death by a teacher Rupam Pathak in full public view at his residence in Purnia on January 4, polled 53,732 votes against Yadav's 30,067 votes.
CPI-M nominee Amit Sarkar, son of slain party MLA Ajit Sarkar, finished third securing 17,113 votes. Rest of the four contestants Satish Sah (Ind) got 1,855 votes, Islamuddin (CPI-ML) got 1554 votes, Om Prakash Bhagat (JMM) bagged 898 votes and Krishna Kumar Jha (Ind) got 508 votes. They have to forfeit their security deposit.The bypoll on June 25 was needed following the killing of Raj Kishore Keshri.With the victory of Kiran Keshri, BJP managed to maintain its tally in the state assembly to 91.Ruling JD(U) has now 114 members in the state assembly, one short of its original tally of 115 following the death of its MLA Jagmato Devi from Daraunda assembly constituency in Bihar.The bypoll brought to light the apparent rift between RJD-LJP combine seven months after the two parties put up a united show in October-November 2010 assembly polls in Bihar.While RJD chief Lalu Prasad lent support to CPI-M nominee Amit Sarkar, LJP decided to back the Congress candidate.
Riding on a sympathy wave, Kiran, whose husband and senior party MLA Raj Kishore Keshri was stabbed to death by a teacher Rupam Pathak in full public view at his residence in Purnia on January 4, polled 53,732 votes against Yadav's 30,067 votes.
CPI-M nominee Amit Sarkar, son of slain party MLA Ajit Sarkar, finished third securing 17,113 votes. Rest of the four contestants Satish Sah (Ind) got 1,855 votes, Islamuddin (CPI-ML) got 1554 votes, Om Prakash Bhagat (JMM) bagged 898 votes and Krishna Kumar Jha (Ind) got 508 votes. They have to forfeit their security deposit.The bypoll on June 25 was needed following the killing of Raj Kishore Keshri.With the victory of Kiran Keshri, BJP managed to maintain its tally in the state assembly to 91.Ruling JD(U) has now 114 members in the state assembly, one short of its original tally of 115 following the death of its MLA Jagmato Devi from Daraunda assembly constituency in Bihar.The bypoll brought to light the apparent rift between RJD-LJP combine seven months after the two parties put up a united show in October-November 2010 assembly polls in Bihar.While RJD chief Lalu Prasad lent support to CPI-M nominee Amit Sarkar, LJP decided to back the Congress candidate.
Survivors of Time - Long before Chennai, there stood a tree
Chennai,June 29:
This fortnightly series will feature landmarks from the city that have transcended eras and still stand tall. We start with the Great Banyan at the Theosophical Society headquarters in Adyar, which is believed to be nearly 450 years old.
From a distance, the giant banyan at the Theosophical Society headquarters in Adyar looks like a surreal miniature of a forest — its age defined by the adult offshoots that rely no longer on the legendary central trunk, which was felled by a gale in 1989.
For a city that seldom pauses to look up at its trees, word about the banyan has travelled famously afar. It is arguably the oldest existing tree in the city, said to be over 450 years old (the city itself came into being 372 years ago). It is known to have accommodated nearly 3,000 people under its shade during the heyday of the society when Annie Besant was at its helm. Even today, many autorickshaw drivers know the Society only as Aalamaram Society (aalamaram is Tamil for banyan).
“Only after Annie Besant became the president (of the Society) did the banyan become the venue for annual international conventions. Towards the late 1970s, the conventions were shifted to the Adyar theatre primarily because the number of delegates attending was increasing, which was disturbing the banyan,” says Harihara Raghavan, general manager of the Society. As of 1950, the tree covered an area of over an acre (over 43,560 sq.ft.) and had a hundred prop root stems.Today, the Society estimates that the tree covers around 65,000 sq.ft.
Located right outside the Blavatsky Bungalow in the Society headquarters, the banyan was discovered in 1908 when Annie Besant, after becoming the president, acquired 200 surrounding acres of woods and other property and developed them into gardens. Since then, the banyan has been witness to several momentous speeches and lectures, such as the 1909 ‘In the Twilight’ speech by Annie Besant. During the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Society, held in 1935 under the banyan, loudspeakers were used for the first time in India. It was also under this tree that personalities such as Mahatma Gandhi, J Krishnamurthi, Maria Montessori and the Dalai Lama spoke.
“There is a saying that the banyan is so big that an entire army can rest under it. A banyan can grow only in areas such as like parks and reserve areas, and the banyan at the Theosophical Society has been able to grow very well. Because it is close to the sea and due to a few other reasons, the central trunk collapsed sometime ago. Nevertheless, it is a monumental tree,” says G. Dattatri, a former chief urban planner of the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority and who is now an advisor with Nizhal, an NGO that works towards conserving trees.
Some others...
Though not as loaded with history unlike the banyan, the baobab tree (Adansonia digitata) at the Government Museum in Egmore is yet another ‘living tree monument’, according to M.N. Pushpa, curator of the botany section of the museum. It is one of the oldest baobab specimens found in the city today.
“When the museum was established in 1851, the tree was already there. So, it is definitely more than 160 years old,” she says. Native to Africa, baobab trees are among some of the longest living trees. “The diameter of this tree is around 30 feet; and the trunk of the tree can be hollowed out to accommodate around 20 people,” says Pushpa. “Since the wood of this tree is soft and porous, it acts as a water reservoir and can store up to 4,500 litres of water.”
Asked if the tree needs looking after, she said, “It is an adult tree. It can take care of itself.”
Astronauts take shelter from space junk
Nasa, June 29: Six space station astronauts took shelter in lifeboats Tuesday when a piece of orbiting junk came dangerously close.
The unidentified object came within 1,100 feet (335 meters) of the space station -- closer than any piece of space junk ever, said NASA’s space operations chief, Bill Gerstenmaier.Mission Control ordered the astronauts into the two Russian Soyuz capsules parked at the space station Tuesday morning. NASA got just 14 hours’ notice of the close approach, not nearly enough time to move the space station out of harm’s way.The call to seek shelter came around 7-30 a.m. EDT (1330 GMT). The time of closest approach was a little after 8 a.m. Mission Control gave the all—clear a few minutes later. The two Americans, three Russians and one Japanese, floated back into the space station and resumed normal work.
Even a small piece of debris can do big damage. The astronauts could have undocked in their two Soyuz capsules and returned to Earth, in case of a serious collision.
Gerstenmaier said NASA managers are working with their Russian counterparts to reduce the amount of time needed to move the space station away from space junk. Right now, a couple of days are needed. Changes in computer software should improve that.NASA does not know how big the object was or where it came from. It could well be a chunk of an old satellite or spent rocket.Space shuttle Atlantis, meanwhile, is on track to blast off to the space station on July 8. It will be the last shuttle flight in NASA history. Atlantis will be filled with a year’s worth of food and other station supplies.
U.S. removes India from human trafficking ‘Watch List’
After a gap of six years, the United States has taken India off the human trafficking ‘Watch List’ for making significant efforts in combating the menace.
In its annual Trafficking in Persons report, the State Department has upgraded India to Tier 2 countries after keeping it on a ‘Watch List’ for six years.
The Watch List is for those countries where the number of victims of severe forms of trafficking is very significant or is significantly increasing and there is a failure to provide evidence of increasing efforts to combat it.
Tier 2 is for those countries whose governments do not fully comply with the minimum standards of the Trafficking Victims Protection Acts (TVPA) but are making significant efforts in this regard.
“The Government of India does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so,” the State Department said in its report justifying its decision to upgrade India’s position.
The report analysed conditions in 184 countries and ranked them in terms of their effectiveness in fighting the human trafficking.
It has identified 23 nations as failing to meet minimum international standards to curb the scourge, which claims mainly women and children as victims. That’s up from 13 in 2010. Another 41 countries were placed on the “watch list” that could lead to sanctions unless their records improve.
“All countries can and must do more,” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said while releasing the report. “More human beings are being exploited today than ever before.”
In its annual Trafficking in Persons report, the State Department has upgraded India to Tier 2 countries after keeping it on a ‘Watch List’ for six years.
The Watch List is for those countries where the number of victims of severe forms of trafficking is very significant or is significantly increasing and there is a failure to provide evidence of increasing efforts to combat it.
Tier 2 is for those countries whose governments do not fully comply with the minimum standards of the Trafficking Victims Protection Acts (TVPA) but are making significant efforts in this regard.
“The Government of India does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so,” the State Department said in its report justifying its decision to upgrade India’s position.
The report analysed conditions in 184 countries and ranked them in terms of their effectiveness in fighting the human trafficking.
It has identified 23 nations as failing to meet minimum international standards to curb the scourge, which claims mainly women and children as victims. That’s up from 13 in 2010. Another 41 countries were placed on the “watch list” that could lead to sanctions unless their records improve.
“All countries can and must do more,” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said while releasing the report. “More human beings are being exploited today than ever before.”
New Zealand PM to hold talks with Manmohan Singh today
who accompanied by his wife Bronagh Key, and a high-level delegtion,
arrived here on Sunday, will hold talks with Prime Minister Manmohan
Singh today.Mr Key's visit revolves round commercial and economic ties with
India, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Vishnu Prakash told
reporters while briefing them about the visit.
New Zealand, 2.5 pc of whose population consist of persons of
Indian origin, has already identified India as its key economic
partner.
There has been regular high-level exchanges between the two
countries in recent years. Dr Singh had a meeting with his New
Zealand counterpart in Hanoi this year on the sidelines of the
East Asia Summit.
The Trade and Commerce Ministers and Speaker of the country
recently visited India, while India's Commerce, and Power Ministers
went to New Zealand.
The bilateral trade has been growing steadily over the years and
the commercial and economic relations of the two countries were now
poised for further growth.
There was great potential for Indian companies in the IT sector
and already companies like the Infosys, TCS among others had their
presence in New Zealand.
There was great cooperation with the country in the field of
dairy farming, earthquake engineering, post harvest technology and
food processing.
New Zealand sees India as large market, particularly in the dairy
and agriculture sector. India is going to be a great market for milk
as birth of a large number of the children in the world was taking
place in India.
Mr Key will tomorrow call on President Pratibha Devisingh Patil
and Vice-President Hamid Ansari besides meeting Leader of the
Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj and UPA Chairperson Sonia
Gandhi. He will also have meetings with External Affairs Minister S M
Krishna.
Some agreements will be signed after talks between the two Prime
Ministers.
Mr Key will also address a business lunch session organised by
the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
The External Affairs Ministry said here that Mr Key's visit
will provide an opportunity for the leaders of the two countries to
exchange views and perspectives on regional, multilateral as well as
bilateral issues of mutual interest.
"The visit is expected to give a further fillip to the two way
trade which has grown from 165 million dollars in 2003-04 to 755
million dollars in 2009-10. A bilateral free trade agreement is
currently under negotiation," it said.
Patient burns to death as ventilator catches fire
Chandigarh, Jun 28 (UNI) A patient died of burns when a ventilator put on him caught fire in PGI here late last night.
Ghinder Singh (52), resident of Doraha in Ludhiana district, was admitted in PGI for liver treatment a month ago. He was shifted to emergency ward and put on ventilator in serious condition last night. Suddenly the ventilator put on him caught fire in which he was charred to death.
Relatives of the victim alleged that negligency on the part of doctors at emergency ward led to this incident.
They demanded action against the negligent staff.However, PGI administration said that Ghinder Singh died during shock therapy treatment where the ventilator caught fire due to short circuit.
Ghinder Singh (52), resident of Doraha in Ludhiana district, was admitted in PGI for liver treatment a month ago. He was shifted to emergency ward and put on ventilator in serious condition last night. Suddenly the ventilator put on him caught fire in which he was charred to death.
Relatives of the victim alleged that negligency on the part of doctors at emergency ward led to this incident.
They demanded action against the negligent staff.However, PGI administration said that Ghinder Singh died during shock therapy treatment where the ventilator caught fire due to short circuit.
Respite for 128 Indians in Bahrain, travel ban lifted
Hyderabad, June 27: After an ordeal of two years, 128 stranded Indians who were working in Bahrain will soon be able to return home as a travel ban on them is about to be lifted. Of the 128 workers, 80 are from Andhra Pradesh, from districts like Adilabad, Karimnagar and Nizamabad.
Two years back, a Bahrain court had fined and imposed a travel ban on 128 workers of the Abdul Naas Company as they had left their jobs without the company’s consent.
Recently, on June 19, Indian Embassy officials had a meeting with the company representatives to solve the problem. The company had assured them that they would withdraw the cases and that the fines would be waived and the workers would be free to return.
Though blacklisted by the Indian government, the construction company had recruited about 2,000 workers from India between 2003 and 2006. Once the Indians were employed, they alleged that they were not provided with proper food and accommodation.
Accusing the company that their salaries were also not being paid as promised, 128 workers had quit without the consent of the company.
The company, in turn, had filed a case in a Bahrain court against the workers. The court had ordered a travel ban and imposed a fine of 497 Dinars (Rs 70,000) on the workers, stipulating that they would be allowed to leave the country only after paying the fines.
Two years back, a Bahrain court had fined and imposed a travel ban on 128 workers of the Abdul Naas Company as they had left their jobs without the company’s consent.
Recently, on June 19, Indian Embassy officials had a meeting with the company representatives to solve the problem. The company had assured them that they would withdraw the cases and that the fines would be waived and the workers would be free to return.
Though blacklisted by the Indian government, the construction company had recruited about 2,000 workers from India between 2003 and 2006. Once the Indians were employed, they alleged that they were not provided with proper food and accommodation.
Accusing the company that their salaries were also not being paid as promised, 128 workers had quit without the consent of the company.
The company, in turn, had filed a case in a Bahrain court against the workers. The court had ordered a travel ban and imposed a fine of 497 Dinars (Rs 70,000) on the workers, stipulating that they would be allowed to leave the country only after paying the fines.
Is Rahul Gandhi ready to be the PM?
New Delhi:The birthday wishes sounded like a family jingle. Rahul Gandhi was now 41 and "mature enough to be prime minister" . Last Sunday, Digvijay Singh dropped a clear hint that the top job could now return to a Gandhi scion.
Seen as a leader working closely with the young Gandhi on his pet Uttar Pradesh project, Digvijay's comments made a case for restoring the 'legacy' to its rightful heir apparent who has served out the ritual of apprenticeship. Some saw it as a dig at the incumbent prime minister; others felt it was just old-fashioned , Congress-style sycophancy.
When Rahul Gandhi was being wished a prime ministerial birthday, the young leader himself was nowhere in sight. Wary of unsolicited wishes and shows of support, he was far away from the scene, perhaps unaware that a storm had broken out over a headline he has firmly discouraged for years.
In more normal times, the "Rahul-for- PM " call would hardly be unexceptional. But the timing is more than a little awry. Two years into what should have been a resurgent second term, the Congress-led UPA is listless. Warding off corruption scams, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh seems besieged.
Ministerial rivalries appear uncontainable. Congress's electoral health in major states is critical and UPA II's contract with the middle class is cracking.
In these trying circumstances, it is not surprisingly that murmurs in Congress are growing louder as the crucial UP assembly elections approach next year and the bigger test of the 2014 national election looms ahead. Things can't go on like this is the refrain, as the party begins to subliminally search for a winner who will deliver the goods at the hustings.
Embarrassed by the suggestion that the PM's job was up for grabs, the Congress leadership swiftly put out a no-vacancy sign. Digvijay Singh scrambled to explain to the prime minister's office that he did not mean what he said. Congress said the PM will complete his full term.
"It is something he will decide, party high command will decide, people of India will decide," said party spokesperson Jayanthi Natarajan.
With Rahul making not the smallest concession to the hosannas heaped on him, the PM debate has died out for now. Digvijay has moved to other issues and wellplaced sources assert that the Manohan-Sonia equation is working fine.
The party does make its point now and again, as it did over the Baba Ramdev episode, but the trust quotient is intact. It is, however, clear that Manmohan Singh is not going to change his measured style and while he is quite unruffled by the 'kaun banega PM' comments, he seems a little withdrawn.
However, the Cabinet reshuffle he has promised after consultations with Sonia will give him an opportunity to send out a business-like message. But the larger question still begs an answer. Whether now or later, is Rahul ready for the job his party sees him destined for? Is the rank and file of the party ready to accept his leadership?"You are never ready enough, but that is not the issue," a party insider points out.
The death of Indira Gandhi left Rajiv Gandhi with no choice. But those who meet Rahul regularly as part of his organizational assignment of reviving youth wings NSUI and Youth Congress dismiss any possibility of a midway takeover. "He has not evinced any interest in two years of UPA II. He is focused on what he is doing," says a Congress leader.
PM Mammohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi likely to reshuffle council of ministers before July 2
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Sunday held another round of consultations on the reshuffle of the council of ministers. This was the second meeting between the two leaders in the past one week on the issue.In the event of Singh and Sonia Gandhi wrapping up their discussions on the Cabinet rejig soon, the exercise could take place before July 2. President is leaving for her annual week-long stay at the Hyderabad's Prashanth Nilayam on July 2.
Sources in the Congress said the forthcoming exercise could be an elaborate one as there have been criticism that the leadership failed to inject any new energy in the last ministerial rejig. Singh himself had promised a "more expansive exercise" after the budget session of Parliament.
There have been calls for getting rid of non-performing ministers and for promoting younger leaders. On its part, the party leadership will like the prime minister to keep in mind the requirements of the organisation, particularly the poll-bound Uttar Pradesh.
Sources said the task is not going to be easy for the prime minister as he will have to take a call on whether to make changes in the top rung. Although it was being speculated that SM Krishna could lose the external affairs portfolio, many in the party feel that larger play that the PMO enjoys in the department could prompt the prime minister to retain him. "Only a change in the top posts can result in a drastic overhaul of the Cabinet. But that can happen only if someone like Krishna gets displaced," said a senior leader.
The party's political calculations for UP could see prominent leaders belonging to the minority and Dalit communities getting coveted posts. Sources did not rule out leaders like Salman Khurshid being given charge of a more weighty department.
The Congress, it appears, is reconciled to the Trinamool Congress heading the railway ministry. Although the Congress was keen to take charge of the department, Mamata Banerjee has said that her nominee will control the department. This could mean Mukul Roy getting elevated in the coming reshuffle.
The telecom department held by the DMK before Raja's resignation will stay with the Congress. The Congress will wait for the developments on Dayanidhi Maran to take a decision on his continuance. There is acknowledgement that the government cannot act against the minister as the investigating agency has not even quizzed him over his involvement in the telecom scandal.
Other allies of the Congress, such as the NCP and the IUML, are asking for bigger and better representation in the government. The IUML has been lobbying for the independent charge of a ministry for its nominee E Ahamed.
Sources in the Congress said the forthcoming exercise could be an elaborate one as there have been criticism that the leadership failed to inject any new energy in the last ministerial rejig. Singh himself had promised a "more expansive exercise" after the budget session of Parliament.
There have been calls for getting rid of non-performing ministers and for promoting younger leaders. On its part, the party leadership will like the prime minister to keep in mind the requirements of the organisation, particularly the poll-bound Uttar Pradesh.
Sources said the task is not going to be easy for the prime minister as he will have to take a call on whether to make changes in the top rung. Although it was being speculated that SM Krishna could lose the external affairs portfolio, many in the party feel that larger play that the PMO enjoys in the department could prompt the prime minister to retain him. "Only a change in the top posts can result in a drastic overhaul of the Cabinet. But that can happen only if someone like Krishna gets displaced," said a senior leader.
The party's political calculations for UP could see prominent leaders belonging to the minority and Dalit communities getting coveted posts. Sources did not rule out leaders like Salman Khurshid being given charge of a more weighty department.
The Congress, it appears, is reconciled to the Trinamool Congress heading the railway ministry. Although the Congress was keen to take charge of the department, Mamata Banerjee has said that her nominee will control the department. This could mean Mukul Roy getting elevated in the coming reshuffle.
The telecom department held by the DMK before Raja's resignation will stay with the Congress. The Congress will wait for the developments on Dayanidhi Maran to take a decision on his continuance. There is acknowledgement that the government cannot act against the minister as the investigating agency has not even quizzed him over his involvement in the telecom scandal.
Other allies of the Congress, such as the NCP and the IUML, are asking for bigger and better representation in the government. The IUML has been lobbying for the independent charge of a ministry for its nominee E Ahamed.
US clocks to gain 20 min on grid?
WASHINGTON: A yearlong experiment with the nation's electric grid could mess up traffic lights, security systems and some computers — and make plug-in clocks and appliances like programmable coffeemakers run up to 20 minutes fast.
"A lot of people are going to have things break and they're not going to know why," said Demetrios Matsakis , head of the time service department at the US Naval Observatory, one of two official timekeeping agencies in the federal government.
Since 1930, electric clocks have kept time based on the rate of the electrical current that powers them. If the current slips off its usual rate, clocks run a little fast or slow. Power companies now take steps to correct it and keep the frequency of the current — and the time — as precise as possible.
The group that oversees the US power grid is proposing an experiment that would allow more frequency variation than it does now without corrections, according to a company presentation obtained by The Associated Press.
Officials say they want to try this to make the power supply more reliable, save money and reduce what may be needless efforts. The test is tentatively set to start in mid-July , but that could change. Tweaking the power grid's frequency is expensive and takes a lot of effort, said Joe McClelland, head of electric reliability for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
"A lot of people are going to have things break and they're not going to know why," said Demetrios Matsakis , head of the time service department at the US Naval Observatory, one of two official timekeeping agencies in the federal government.
Since 1930, electric clocks have kept time based on the rate of the electrical current that powers them. If the current slips off its usual rate, clocks run a little fast or slow. Power companies now take steps to correct it and keep the frequency of the current — and the time — as precise as possible.
The group that oversees the US power grid is proposing an experiment that would allow more frequency variation than it does now without corrections, according to a company presentation obtained by The Associated Press.
Officials say they want to try this to make the power supply more reliable, save money and reduce what may be needless efforts. The test is tentatively set to start in mid-July , but that could change. Tweaking the power grid's frequency is expensive and takes a lot of effort, said Joe McClelland, head of electric reliability for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
US, Canada NRIs plan film on Ghadar Party
BARNALA: Coinciding with the centenary of Ghadar Party, some American Punjabis are out to showcase the lives of Ghadarites, including legendary martyr Kartar Singh Sarabha, in a celluloid form. Ghadar Party was formed away from India in USA in 1913 with a motive to get India out of imperial forces' clutches and many Ghadarites had later moved to India.
Now, towards its centenary year, a Punjabi film "Ankheele soorme-Gadri babe" (self-respecting brave- Gadarites) is being planned as a befitting tribute to the brave soldiers of India's freedom struggle. The film is to be completed before 2013.
"The film will shed light on the lives and struggles of Ghadarites, how they formed the party away from their motherland and how they contributed to India's freedom struggle", said California-based Punjabi activist Sukhdev Singh, who is the brain behind the project. The film, to be directed by well-known director Ravinder Ravi, will highlight the rare aspects of the lives of Ghadarites, said Sukhdev, who is also commissioner of libraries of Contra Costa county in California.
The film would mainly focus on the lives of Kartar Singh Sarabha, Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna, Lala Hardyal, Harnam Singh Tundilat, Baba Gurditt Singh and of course Bhagat Singh, apart from other Ghadarites, Sukhdev said.
The film would be shot at historical Yugantar Ashram of San Fransisco, then headquarters of Ghadar movement, Stockton gurdwara, Sacramento and Yuba city of California. NRI Punjabis, specially about 200 families of Ghadarites' descendants, presently residing in USA and Canada, are being approached to play an active role in this project, Sukhdev told TOI.
Sukhdev, who runs 7-11 stores in California, is presently visiting India to study the life sketches of Ghadarites, specially Sarabha. Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha Memorial Trust, USA, Bhagat Gurditta Ji International Charitable Organisation, California and Sarabha village-based foundation will sponsor the film, to be made at a cost of about Rs 10 crore, he said.
Sukhdev, who heads Bhai Gurditta Organization and Dr Jaswant Singh Dhillon, head of US-based Sarabha Trust, have chalked out various programmes in US and Canada for funding and exhaustive research is on to put different elements of the historical film in place.
8 Indian-origin persons among 40 young global telecom leaders
NEW DELHI: As many as eight Indian-origin persons, including those working with Tatas and Bharti group, have been named among 40 young leaders of the global telecom industry.Indians featured in the '40 under 40' list by Global Telecoms Business (GTB), a telecommunications magazine, include Srinivasa Addepalli of Tata Communications, Pankaj Agrawal (Aircel), Ajay Chitkara (Bharti Airtel), Gauri Raizada (Tata Teleservices) and Rene Meza (Airtel Kenya), Mukesh Bavisi (Exponential-e), Udit Mehrotra (Shyam Networks) and Upendra Poranki (Nokia Siemens Networks).The last year's list had only one Indian -- Srinivasa Addepalli.On Srinivasa Addepalli, GTB said that he "embodies the spirit of adventure that Tata Communications represents. Addepalli has played a pivotal role in this journey as the cocreator and enabler of the company's unique strategy."Regarding Agrawal GTB said that he played a key role in transforming Aircel from a regional operator to a pan-Indian operator, while Ajay Chitkara has been the "catalyst to build a business from scratch to a USD 450 million operation today."Chitkara is one of the youngest CEOs at Bharti Airtel and in the Indian telecom industry.The magazine said that Rene Meza has done an "outstanding job" in the development of telecommunications in east Africa.he coveted list also include Batelco's Enas Al Fardan, France Telecom Orange's Christophe Alter, BT Global Services' Sian Baldwin, Julien Ducarroz of Orange, Alcatel-Lucent's Heather Kirksey, Mikhail Gerchuk of MTS, Vodafone's Bryan Littlefair.For the study, respondents were asked who they thought are the global telecom industry's "young leaders of today and the leaders of tomorrow".o prepare the list, only those born on or after July 1, 1971, were considered.
US ready to address Indian concerns over visa fee hike
WASHINGTON: The US is ready to address Indian government's concerns on a host of trade and business issues, including the H-1B visa fee hike and social security equalisation, a top official here has said, ahead of the bilateral economic dialogue next week.
"Purpose of this (India-US economic) dialogue and discussion would be to make sure that we know the full set of concerns and if there are measures that we need to take on that side, we would work on them as well," under secretary of treasury for international affairs Lael Brainard said.
In her interaction with a group of Indian reporters ahead of next week's India-US economic dialogue, Brainard said her understanding is that in the area of H-1B visas, the country is the biggest -- 50 per cent more than any other nation - beneficiary of this.
The concern of India with regard to the visa fee, she argued, has not altered this figure in any way.
"But this is an area, where we would continue to look at because this is important to you," she said when asked about India's concerns in this regard.
"On social security equalisation, at the moment it is not clear how far we are going to proceed because the systems of the two countries are very different. But we certainly in principle are going to engage in discussions and would continue to do so to see whether there is more potential there," she said.
"I think, in general to the extent to the areas where there are two-way reforms that can be made we are obviously going to be very interested in hearing about them and figure out ways to proceed.
For instance, it could be quite beneficial to reinvigorate conversations, starting at a technical level, looking at the potential to concluding a bilateral investment treaty which has two-way obligations, Brainard said.
A day earlier Corporate America urged policymakers to enter a bilateral investment treaty with India, which they argued is the next key step - after the civil nuclear deal - to strengthen and deepen trade and business ties between the two largest democracies of the world.
"The priority is to deliver on a US-India Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) that incentivises greater two-way foreign direct investment," said Ron Somers, president of US India Business Council (USIBC) in his address to the 36th anniversary leadership summit of the organisation which is the apex body of Indian and American corporate world here.
"USIBC calls upon both governments to re-energise BIT discussions, by re-engaging in technical discussions, as soon as possible," said Somers in the presence of top officials and corporate leaders from both the countries.
Earlier this week, Union commerce and industry minister Anand Sharma and US trade representatives Ron Kirk agreed to fast track technical negotiations for an early conclusion of a bilateral investment agreement.
"We agreed to re-invigorate the trade policy forum (TPF) and make it more robust and effective in resolving bilateral commercial issues, while maintaining the political leadership of the process," Sharma said.
"The two sides also agreed to fast track the technical negotiations for an early conclusion of the India-US bilateral investment agreement," Sharma said, adding that would be two rounds of negotiations before the next meeting of the ministerial-level TPF is expected to be held in October 2011 in India.
Indian-American creates world's largest tricolour
CHICAGO: Exuding unflinching patriotism, an Indian-American here has created the world's largest Indian flag, weighing 250 kg, as a symbol of peace and harmony in the country.The tricolour, which stretches 153 by 102 feet, was created by entertainment businessman Monty Saiyed and has found place in Limca Book of Records in April this year.His creation will feature at the two-day Vibrant India event to be held here on July 16 and 17 with performances from Bollywood actors and singers.
"The flag is a message of peace and unity. This is an occasion of unity where everybody should stand together and support the cause of the flag and take the honour of it," Saiyed, 35, said.It took 15 days for seven Porbandar tailors, recruited by Saiyed, to sew this cotton flag.After the Vibrant India event, the flag will be flown back to Navsari in Gujarat and could be used in other events in different Indian states."Next year, the flag will be used for the same purpose of peace and unity in different states in India," Saiyed said.Saiyed, who is living in the US since the age of seven, said his great grandfather first came to India 1100 years ago from Medina in Saudi Arabia, when King Siddhraj Jaysingh was the ruler settled in Navsari. His family members also run a foundation called "Gandhi Peace Mission" in Gujarat for the last 7-8 years.
Indian-American student, mom get deportation reprieve
HOUSTON: An Indian American pre-medical student and her mother facing deportation to India for staying in the US illegally have received a last-minute reprieve and were allowed to stay back temporarily to appeal the order.
Mandeep Chahal, who just finished her second year at the University of California-Davis, and her mother Jagdish Kaur, a homemaker, received a temporary stay on deportation by the Department of Homeland Security on June 21.
Chahal, 20, entered the US with her mother in 1997, but did not find out she was undocumented until she was 15.
Jagdish Kaur filed for political asylum in 1998, but following a six-year backlog, failed to show up at a hearing in 2003 and was denied asylum.
A judge then ordered Kaur to be deported. She was picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in 2010, while on her way to a doctor's appointment, and held in detention.
Kaur was released shortly afterwards for medical reasons, but both she and Chahal wore ankle monitors for a while so that ICE could track their movements.
Over the weekend, friends and advocates launched a last-minute social media campaign to halt Mountain View resident Mandeep Chahal's deportation, which was scheduled for Wednesday.
Chahal, studying neurology, physiology and behaviour at UC Davis, has lived in the Bay area since she was 6 years old.
The campaign resulted in more than 3,000 faxes being sent to members of Congress and the Obama administration.
"If anyone we know is going to be sent out of the United States, the last person it should be is Mandeep Chahal," said best friend Julia Duperrault, who has known Chahal since they were middle school classmates in Los Altos.
"I want to thank everyone who has embraced our story and spoken out on behalf of my mother and me. My family will be at home tonight, together, because of you," said Chahal in a statement on her Facebook page.
This morning, my mother and I were taken into custody at the ICE office in San Francisco.
We were there less than two hours before ICE decided to grant us a temporary stay and release us.
Mandeep Chahal, who just finished her second year at the University of California-Davis, and her mother Jagdish Kaur, a homemaker, received a temporary stay on deportation by the Department of Homeland Security on June 21.
Chahal, 20, entered the US with her mother in 1997, but did not find out she was undocumented until she was 15.
Jagdish Kaur filed for political asylum in 1998, but following a six-year backlog, failed to show up at a hearing in 2003 and was denied asylum.
A judge then ordered Kaur to be deported. She was picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in 2010, while on her way to a doctor's appointment, and held in detention.
Kaur was released shortly afterwards for medical reasons, but both she and Chahal wore ankle monitors for a while so that ICE could track their movements.
Over the weekend, friends and advocates launched a last-minute social media campaign to halt Mountain View resident Mandeep Chahal's deportation, which was scheduled for Wednesday.
Chahal, studying neurology, physiology and behaviour at UC Davis, has lived in the Bay area since she was 6 years old.
The campaign resulted in more than 3,000 faxes being sent to members of Congress and the Obama administration.
"If anyone we know is going to be sent out of the United States, the last person it should be is Mandeep Chahal," said best friend Julia Duperrault, who has known Chahal since they were middle school classmates in Los Altos.
"I want to thank everyone who has embraced our story and spoken out on behalf of my mother and me. My family will be at home tonight, together, because of you," said Chahal in a statement on her Facebook page.
This morning, my mother and I were taken into custody at the ICE office in San Francisco.
We were there less than two hours before ICE decided to grant us a temporary stay and release us.
Compromise clause soon in dowry cases?
NEW DELHI: Offences under Section 498A of the IPC, relating to harassment for dowry and cruelty to a woman in her matrimonial home, may become less stringent on husbands and in-laws. After getting a number of complaints about its misuse, the Law Commission is set to recommend making the offence compoundable.
This means the husband and in-laws of a complainant will have the choice of compromising and getting the case off their back, provided the woman agrees to it.
Until such a compromise takes place, the offenders will probably stay in jail unless they are granted them bail by court.
After conducting nationwide consultations, the overwhelming response received by the Law Commission, headed by Justice P V Reddy, was that Section 498A be amended to make the offence compoundable. In criminal law, it means avoiding prosecution as a result of an amicable settlement between the parties.
At the same time, the commission feels the offence should remain non-bailable. Though courts have been allowing compounding of 498A cases, such instances have been few and far between because the judiciary has, in general, taken a strong stand against harassment of women in their matrimonial homes. However, in many cases the courts, especially the Supreme Court, have opined that false cases have been foisted by women angry with their in-laws and in such cases, many relatives of the husband, unconnected to the alleged crime, have been dragged in.
The Law Commission, after examining the recent judgments of the Supreme Court and the earlier recommendations of the Malimath committee, concluded, "If the wife is prepared to condone the ill-treatment and harassment meted out to her either by reason of change of attitude or repentance on the part of the husband or reparation for the injury caused to her, the law should not stand in the way of terminating the criminal proceedings."
In the course of the study, the commission found that there were as many as 1,33,759 cases under 498A pending in trial courts with 3,60,482 accused. Among them, 49,403 were in judicial custody and 2,19,358 were granted bail. In the last three years, 15,818 cases were compounded and 16,038 convicted.
China making border row an emotive issue?
BEIJING: For the first time in Sino-Indian discourse, a Chinese foreign ministry advisor has acknowledged the existence of "emotional" content to the border row. This is highly significant because negotiators have long considered technical issues like the mapping of boundary line as the main obstacle to the resolution of the dispute.
"If sentiments are hurt, it will not help in settling this issue," said Ma Zhengang, member, Policy Advisory Group of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, here on Friday. The statement poses fresh challenge for Indian negotiators as this is a rare instance of the Chinese establishment throwing up an emotive issue. Xu referred to what he considers an important sentence in the joint statement signed by prime ministers of the two countries in 2005. It says both sides should make meaningful adjustment based on Line of Actual Control.
"We have mapped out the general direction of the settlement of border issue," Xu said. He made no mention of another sentence in the joint statement which says there will be no changes in populated areas along the border, which would refer to the densely populated Tawang area in Arunachal Pradesh. Although Tawang is claimed by China, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Premier Wen Jiabao agreed in 2005 that it would be impossible to alter the national allegiance of populated areas on the border.
" Beijing appears to be distancing itself from this aspect of the Singh-Wen agreement. This is clear from Xu's statement that underscores the aspect of meaningful adjustment while keeping quiet about the issue concerning populated areas," a source said.Another expert, Qu Xing, who heads state-run China Institute of International Studies, called for a new perspective in the three-cornered relationship involving China, Pakistan and India. He also indicated that a powerful section in the Chinese establishment is trying to re-evaluate the border issue in a different light.Chinese experts said New Delhi must not worry about Beijing's relationship with Pakistan and other countries in South Asia because these are not meant to target India. "Both India and China must create an enabling environment for the settlement of the issue and try to avoid spreading negative factors having negative impact," Ma said. "There have been many negative arguments voiced on the border issue in recent times," he said.
Tsunami warning cancelled after quake near Alaska
A tsunami warning has been cancelled for Alaska's coast after a 7.2-magnitude earthquake hit in the Pacific Ocean, 1,600 kilometres west of Anchorage, at a depth of about 62km, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said.
The quake on the Fox Islands stuck at 6:09pm local time. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
The West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Centre (WCATWC) issued a statement at 8:19pm local time (2:19pm AEST) saying the tsunami danger no longer existed along the US west coast states, Alaska, and British Columbia.
However, a tsunami wave measuring six-centimetres tall was recorded at Nikolski, a tiny Aleut village on the island of Umnak, and a 10-centimetre wave was observed at Adak, a spokeswoman for the WCATWC said.
The warning, which extended for roughly 1,300 kilometres - from Unimak Pass north-east of Dutch Harbour, westward to Amchitka Pass west of Adak Island - was cancelled after a little more than an hour.
The coast of the Alaska peninsula and the Alaska mainland were never considered to be threatened.The WCATWC had warned coastal residents to move to higher ground and away from harbours and inlets, including those sheltered directly from the sea.
"Earthquakes of this size magnitude are known to generate tsunamis," the centre said.Quakes of 7 to 8 magnitudes and higher are relatively common in the Aleutians, but are generally of little consequence because the island chain is so remote and sparsely populated."This is a very seismically active area," USGS geophysicist Randy Baldwin said.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) said there was no tsunami threat for Australia.
IIFA celebrations to feature music workshop by Indian trio
The workshop is an open invitation to students from across North America, professionals and industry stalwarts to participate in a remarkable dialogue: Music Bringing Cinema Alive. Established to explore how music underpins cinema, crosses over cultural lines, and helps bring movies to life, the workshop is the ideal platform for Indian and international musicians and industry influencers to interact and share ideas about the art of sound and rhythm. The workshop will explore influencing factors for music in Indian Cinema.
Leading composer and director Vishal Bhardwaj, legendary musical trio and film composers Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, and the renowned composer Salim Merchant will lead an interactive session dwelling into the impact of music in films.
The workshop will open with a brief history of Hindi Film music- its origins, uniqueness and integral role in films. What is expected to be one of the most anticipated moments of the Videocon d2H IIFA Weekend is, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy will invite audience members to make recommendations in composing a song. They will then compose one during the workshop, and invite lucky audience members on stage to jam with them.This will be followed by Vishal Bhardwaj speaking on how music is infused into films, and how the composer must look at various elements before ever putting a note on paper.
Satish C Mehta appointed as new Indian ambassador to Kuwait
India has appointed Satish C Mehta as its new ambassador to Kuwait, an official press release issued by Government of India said on Thursday.
Mehta is currently serving as joint secretary at ministry of external affairs in New Delhi, added the release.Satish C Mehta is expected to take up his new assignment shortly, Mehta will succeed Ajay Malhotra who assumed his current posting in Kuwait in 2009.During his career, Mehta has held several important portfolios like Joint Secretary (North) and Joint Secretary ( Nepal and Bhutan) in India's ministry of external affairs.
India's super rich club 12th largest in the world
NEW DELHI: Number of high net worth individuals (HNWI) is growing in India. HNWI population of the country grew by 20.8% to 1.53 lakh in 2010 compared to 1.26 lakh in 2009, according to the 15th annual World Wealth Report, released by Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management and Capgemini. Now, India's HNWI population is the world's 12th largest, replacing Spain which dropped to the 14th position.
And the growth of Indian millionaires is fuelled by robust economic and equity-market performance, the report added. "With a GDP growth rate of 9.1% in 2010 and an increase in market capitalization by 24.9%, India offers a great opportunity and continues to remain an important market for wealth management providers worldwide," said Atul Singh, MD and head, Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management , India.
Indian millionaires also showed growing interest in investments like luxury collectibles (luxury cars, boats and jets), as also in sports, the survey found.
The world's HNWI population expanded and wealth accumulation in 2010 surpassed 2007 pre-crisis levels in nearly every region. Population of HNWIs increased by 8.3% to 10.9 million in 2010 and financial wealth of HNWIs grew 9.7% to reach $42.7 trillion compared to 17.1% and 18.9% respectively in 2009.
Asia-Pacific region has surpassed Europe in terms of HNWI population. It expanded by 9.7% to 3.3 million, while Europe grew 6.3% to 3.1 million, said the report. Wealth of HNWIs in Asia Pacific rose 12.1% to $10.8 trillion, exceeding Europe's 7.2% growth to $10.2 trillion.
And the growth of Indian millionaires is fuelled by robust economic and equity-market performance, the report added. "With a GDP growth rate of 9.1% in 2010 and an increase in market capitalization by 24.9%, India offers a great opportunity and continues to remain an important market for wealth management providers worldwide," said Atul Singh, MD and head, Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management , India.
Indian millionaires also showed growing interest in investments like luxury collectibles (luxury cars, boats and jets), as also in sports, the survey found.
The world's HNWI population expanded and wealth accumulation in 2010 surpassed 2007 pre-crisis levels in nearly every region. Population of HNWIs increased by 8.3% to 10.9 million in 2010 and financial wealth of HNWIs grew 9.7% to reach $42.7 trillion compared to 17.1% and 18.9% respectively in 2009.
Asia-Pacific region has surpassed Europe in terms of HNWI population. It expanded by 9.7% to 3.3 million, while Europe grew 6.3% to 3.1 million, said the report. Wealth of HNWIs in Asia Pacific rose 12.1% to $10.8 trillion, exceeding Europe's 7.2% growth to $10.2 trillion.
A cop who stuck on in Puttaparthi for 4 decades
HYDERABAD: A classic example of the say that the Sathya Sai Baba Trust has in the police postings in Anantapur district is B Narsimhulu , who was DSP of Puttaparthi till last Wednesday. He joined the police force in the late 60s, and continued to stay on in the temple town for the last four decades barring brief stints in other places.Narasimhulu was sub-inspector when violence rocked Prasanthi Nilayam in 1993. Four young boys were gunned down by the cops inside the baba's abode and it is not clear to this date as to what triggered the violence and why were the boys killed. "Narasimhulu rose from the rank of sub-inspector to circle inspector to DSP while serving at Puttaparthi. Whenever he was transferred out of Puttaparthi, higher officials in Hyderabad used to get phone calls from Prasanthi Nilayam with clear instructions to send Narasimhulu back to the temple town," said a police officer.According to the sources, in one instance, when Narasimhulu was posted out and Venkata Reddy brought in, powerful trust members immediately got Venkata Reddy posted to Puttaparthi airport and brought back Narasimhulu.
This time around, his luck appears to have run out as the state on Wednesday gave Penugonda DSP Kolar Krishna additional charge of Puttaparthi and did not give Narasimhulu any posting.During the recent hospitalisation of Sai Baba before his eventual death on April 24 this year, Anantapur SP Shanawaz Kasim was chided by the trust members for setting up various check-points into the temple town. "A furious Kasim complained to DGP K Aravinda Rao after which key police personnel in Penugonda and Puttaparthi divisions were transferred. Interestingly, one of the three arrested in the Rs 35 lakh cash seizure case, Harishnanda Shetty, is linked to the police indirectly: his father is a retired special director of the Intelligence Bureau. The clout enjoyed by the trust may be waning, but has not disappeared completely, said the sources. "Before the incident in which three persons were caught transporting Rs 35.5 lakh cash from Puttaparthi to Bangalore, there were many such seizures but after telephone calls from senior AP police officials in Hyderabad and Karnataka police officials in Bangalore, both the persons detained and the cash were allowed to go," said the police sources.
Anantapur DIG Charu Sinha visits Prasanthi Nilayam twice a week and is a well-known person in the temple town.An ardent follower of the baba's preachings, Charu Sinha has been maintaining cordial relations with all the trust members and personally monitored the situation in Puttaparthi when the baba was hospitalised in April.
This time around, his luck appears to have run out as the state on Wednesday gave Penugonda DSP Kolar Krishna additional charge of Puttaparthi and did not give Narasimhulu any posting.During the recent hospitalisation of Sai Baba before his eventual death on April 24 this year, Anantapur SP Shanawaz Kasim was chided by the trust members for setting up various check-points into the temple town. "A furious Kasim complained to DGP K Aravinda Rao after which key police personnel in Penugonda and Puttaparthi divisions were transferred. Interestingly, one of the three arrested in the Rs 35 lakh cash seizure case, Harishnanda Shetty, is linked to the police indirectly: his father is a retired special director of the Intelligence Bureau. The clout enjoyed by the trust may be waning, but has not disappeared completely, said the sources. "Before the incident in which three persons were caught transporting Rs 35.5 lakh cash from Puttaparthi to Bangalore, there were many such seizures but after telephone calls from senior AP police officials in Hyderabad and Karnataka police officials in Bangalore, both the persons detained and the cash were allowed to go," said the police sources.
Anantapur DIG Charu Sinha visits Prasanthi Nilayam twice a week and is a well-known person in the temple town.An ardent follower of the baba's preachings, Charu Sinha has been maintaining cordial relations with all the trust members and personally monitored the situation in Puttaparthi when the baba was hospitalised in April.
South Mumbai bungalow sold for record Rs 350 crore
MUMBAI: A suburban developer has paid a record price of Rs 350 crore for a Nepean Sea bungalow property. Runwal Group, which has projects largely in the eastern suburbs, bought Nepean Grange , the two-storey bungalow constructed in 1918, from the Kapadia family. The transaction was finally concluded a few days ago after months of negotiations, TOI has learnt. Property sources said this could probably be the highest price paid for a bungalow in the city. The 2,048 sq m land also has an outhouse, servants' quarters and a car park.
The half-acre property, which falls under the coastal regulation zone II, was on the block for two years and the developer had to deal with nine joint owners of the Kapadia family. The owners settled the deal for Rs 270 crore. However, the bungalow also housed a tenant, the Lilani family, who demanded Rs 80 crore from Runwals to vacate the property.
The new owners of Nepean Grange will compensate the tenant who currently occupies about 4,800 sq ft of the 28,000 sq ft bungalow. The bungalow is located close to the Kilachand House, which too is on the block.
The Runwals will demolish Nepean Grange and build a high-end residential tower on the land. The Piramals, ABG Shipyard and Orbit Group were some of the other contenders for this property.
Last year, an old bungalow property called Villa Nirmala in the residential enclave of Carmichael Road in south Mumbai was bought for around Rs 300 crore by Peninsula Landpart of the Ashok Piramal Group and developer Khemchand Kothari. The transaction involved a payment of Rs 240 crore, plus 15,000 sq ft of space for the occupants of the bungalow once it was redeveloped . The structure, which occupies about half an acre and has a garden at the back, will make way for a high-rise .
Bungalows with heritage value have been falling to developers like nine pins over the past decade. Some of the most beautiful ones are located on Nepean Sea Road and Altamount /Carmichael Roads in south Mumbai.
In 2004, the Cama family of Mumbai Samachar sold its sprawling bungalow, Cosy Corner, behind Elizabeth Nursing Home (off Nepean Sea Road) for Rs 108 crore to the Satellite Group. The two-storeyed Cama bungalow, constructed in the 1920s, had close to a dozen rooms and a porch that overlooks lush, spacious gardens. Heritage buffs and city historians were dismayed when the developer demolished it and build a luxury residential tower.
Similarly, dozens of old, colonial-style bungalows were razed to make way for towers. Properties on Nepean Sea Road that were more than a century old have been demolished after they were bought over by private developers.
Nepean House, which was once located behind Nepean Terrace, went under the hammer years ago and the FSI from this plot was used to build the Ashiana apartment block. Kshitij, a skyscraper on Napean Sea Road, came up a few decades ago on a bungalow property owned by Cowasjee Jehangir. Similarly , the Maharaja of Baroda's palace gave way to the residential building Jal Darshan.
In the 1930s and 1940s, Carmichael Road saw a plethora of stately homes dotting its lush hill slopes. Old-timers recalled that many of these houses were built for about Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh. Among the oldest is the sprawling municipal commissioner's bungalow, which came up in the 1920s, and the official residence of the Port Trust chairman , built in 1918.
The plot on which Mumbai's first skyscraper, Usha Kiran, came up, once housed a princely-looking bungalow belonging to a Marwari family, called the Khandelwals. Among the other properties that were rebuilt, modified or expanded in the past were the Dahanukar bungalow, the Birla family house and Ghia Mansion.
Canada unveils 'Kanishka Project' to honour Air India victims
OTTAWA: To mark the 26th anniversary of the Air India bombing on Friday, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper unveiled a new memorial to the 329 victims and announced a project after the ill-fated plane Kanishka to fight terrorism.
To be called the Kanishka Project, it will form the crux of Canada's new strategy to fight terrorism.The Kanishka (flight 182 from Montreal to Delhi) was blown off near Ireland June 23, 1985, killing all 329 people on board. Within an hour that day, another bomb meant for another Air India flight went off at Tokyo's Narita airport, killing two baggage handlers. Both the bombs were planted by Khalistani extremists to avenge the India army action at the Golden Temple in 1984.
Since the Canadian Prime Minister had announced June 23 as 'National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism' in 2006 soon after taking office, Harper said Canada marks "the seventh annual National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism by launching the Kanishka Project and unveiling the fourth and final memorial for the victims of the Air India Flight 182 atrocity, which occurred 26 years ago today."Unveiling the memorial at Lachine on the Island of Montreal, the prime minister said, "On this day, we pause to remember those who have lost their lives due to acts of terrorism, both here in Canada and around the world.
"On June 23, 1985, Canadians experienced the worst terrorist attack in our history when a bomb on Air India Flight 182 killed all 329 passengers and crew members aboard, most of them Canadian."Public safety minister Vic Toews and many families of the Kanishka victims joined the prime minister in paying respects to those who perished in the biggest aviation tragedy till 9/11 happened.
Through the Kanishka Project, funding will be provided for a range of initiatives, including conferences, publications and major research projects, to build the knowledge base to effectively counter terrorism, the prime minister said.
"The memory of the victims and the pain of their families strengthen our resolve to fight criminals and terrorists at home and abroad," he said.
Canadian opposition leader Jack Layton also joined in paying respects to the Kanishka victims.Layton said, "The families of the 331 innocent victims have endured pain that is beyond words. Through more than two decades of stonewalling by the government, the families of the victims of one of the worst acts of terrorism in our country's history have shown tremendous strength, courage and patience.
"I urge all Canadians to take a moment today to reflect on one of Canada's most horrendous acts of violence, and join the families in support and solidarity, as they continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones."
With Friday's unveiling of a new memorial, Canada now has four memorials - in Ottawa, Lachine, Toronto and Vancouver - to the Kanishka tragedy.
Respects to the victims were also paid in Toronto and Vancouver.
To be called the Kanishka Project, it will form the crux of Canada's new strategy to fight terrorism.The Kanishka (flight 182 from Montreal to Delhi) was blown off near Ireland June 23, 1985, killing all 329 people on board. Within an hour that day, another bomb meant for another Air India flight went off at Tokyo's Narita airport, killing two baggage handlers. Both the bombs were planted by Khalistani extremists to avenge the India army action at the Golden Temple in 1984.
Since the Canadian Prime Minister had announced June 23 as 'National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism' in 2006 soon after taking office, Harper said Canada marks "the seventh annual National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism by launching the Kanishka Project and unveiling the fourth and final memorial for the victims of the Air India Flight 182 atrocity, which occurred 26 years ago today."Unveiling the memorial at Lachine on the Island of Montreal, the prime minister said, "On this day, we pause to remember those who have lost their lives due to acts of terrorism, both here in Canada and around the world.
"On June 23, 1985, Canadians experienced the worst terrorist attack in our history when a bomb on Air India Flight 182 killed all 329 passengers and crew members aboard, most of them Canadian."Public safety minister Vic Toews and many families of the Kanishka victims joined the prime minister in paying respects to those who perished in the biggest aviation tragedy till 9/11 happened.
Through the Kanishka Project, funding will be provided for a range of initiatives, including conferences, publications and major research projects, to build the knowledge base to effectively counter terrorism, the prime minister said.
"The memory of the victims and the pain of their families strengthen our resolve to fight criminals and terrorists at home and abroad," he said.
Canadian opposition leader Jack Layton also joined in paying respects to the Kanishka victims.Layton said, "The families of the 331 innocent victims have endured pain that is beyond words. Through more than two decades of stonewalling by the government, the families of the victims of one of the worst acts of terrorism in our country's history have shown tremendous strength, courage and patience.
"I urge all Canadians to take a moment today to reflect on one of Canada's most horrendous acts of violence, and join the families in support and solidarity, as they continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones."
With Friday's unveiling of a new memorial, Canada now has four memorials - in Ottawa, Lachine, Toronto and Vancouver - to the Kanishka tragedy.
Respects to the victims were also paid in Toronto and Vancouver.
Freed after 10 months, Indian crew of MV Suez reach Delhi
KARACHI/NEW DELHI: Six Indian sailors, who were among the 22-member crew of an Egyptian cargo vessel held captive by Somali pirates for nearly 10 months, reached Delhi on Friday.The crew of the MV Suez, including 11 Egyptians, four Pakistanis and a Sri Lankan, received an emotional welcome when Pakistani naval ship PNS Zulfiqar carrying them docked at Karachi harbour on Thursday.
Suhail Izaz Khan, counsellor from the Indian high commission in Islamabad, received the Indian sailors in Karachi.
Sindh province governor Ishrat-ul-Ibad and other senior officials were present at the Karachi port to receive the freed sailors.
The Egyptian-owned ship was hijacked by Somali pirates in August last year. The pirates released the ship and the crew after a $2.1 million ransom was paid to them by a Pakistani organisation, the Ansar Burney Trust, named after the known human rights activist and former minister.
Sarim Burney, an official with the trust and brother of Ansar Burney, told a Pakistani TV channel that no government was involved in the negotiation with pirates to secure the release of hijacked crew and the merchant vessel.
Burney said that the ransom money was raised through private donations from Pakistanis and paid through a shipping company.
A ceremony was organised at the Sindh governor house late Thursday evening to welcome the freed sailors.The governor told a news conference that the gesture to secure the release of captivated sailors was "the message of love".
"I hope India will reciprocate with love. Indian sailors have been also released," he said on the day India and Pakistani foreign secretaries began two-day talks in Islamabad focusing on peace and confidence-building measures.
Back home in India, family members of the released sailors burst into joyful tears as they watched TV to see the news reports of their release.
"I am very happy to hear the news," Madhu Sharma, wife of sailor NK Sharma, told Times Now news channel.
She said the last few months were full of uncertainties for her and her family. "I am happy now. I last spoke to my husband when he was getting on to the Pakistani ship," she said.
Shamsher Singh, whose son Satnam Singh is among the released sailors, said he had lost all hopes during the past 10 months. "After I spoke to Ansar Burney in April, my hope was rekindled. I hope to see my son alive now."
At the Karachi port, emotional scenes were witnessed as the relatives of the sailors met their dear ones for the first time in months after they were freed by pirates last week. Pakistani sailors were greeted with rose petals.
Laila Wasi, the daughter of MV Suez's captain, burst into tears as she met her father for the first time since he and 21 other crewmembers of the vessel were captured.
Laila told reporters that the promise made by the Sindh governor to bring her father back home was fulfilled, The News reported.
Captain Wasi thanked the governor and the media for their support. He also thanked the naval ships PNS Zulfiqar and PNS Babar for bringing them back home.
The Pakistan Navy launched the Operation Umeed-e-Nau (New Hope) to rescue the crew. The release of captivated sailors was mired in controversy, with India and Pakistani navies accusing each other of getting into risky and dangerous manoeuvres when the freed vessel was being escorted.
Pakistan alleged that Indian warship INS Godavari brushed with its frigate PNS Babar.India denied the allegations and said it was the Pakistani warship that came close to INS Godavari. The Indian Navy released some photographs to substantiate its claims.
Suhail Izaz Khan, counsellor from the Indian high commission in Islamabad, received the Indian sailors in Karachi.
Sindh province governor Ishrat-ul-Ibad and other senior officials were present at the Karachi port to receive the freed sailors.
The Egyptian-owned ship was hijacked by Somali pirates in August last year. The pirates released the ship and the crew after a $2.1 million ransom was paid to them by a Pakistani organisation, the Ansar Burney Trust, named after the known human rights activist and former minister.
Sarim Burney, an official with the trust and brother of Ansar Burney, told a Pakistani TV channel that no government was involved in the negotiation with pirates to secure the release of hijacked crew and the merchant vessel.
Burney said that the ransom money was raised through private donations from Pakistanis and paid through a shipping company.
A ceremony was organised at the Sindh governor house late Thursday evening to welcome the freed sailors.The governor told a news conference that the gesture to secure the release of captivated sailors was "the message of love".
"I hope India will reciprocate with love. Indian sailors have been also released," he said on the day India and Pakistani foreign secretaries began two-day talks in Islamabad focusing on peace and confidence-building measures.
Back home in India, family members of the released sailors burst into joyful tears as they watched TV to see the news reports of their release.
"I am very happy to hear the news," Madhu Sharma, wife of sailor NK Sharma, told Times Now news channel.
She said the last few months were full of uncertainties for her and her family. "I am happy now. I last spoke to my husband when he was getting on to the Pakistani ship," she said.
Shamsher Singh, whose son Satnam Singh is among the released sailors, said he had lost all hopes during the past 10 months. "After I spoke to Ansar Burney in April, my hope was rekindled. I hope to see my son alive now."
At the Karachi port, emotional scenes were witnessed as the relatives of the sailors met their dear ones for the first time in months after they were freed by pirates last week. Pakistani sailors were greeted with rose petals.
Laila Wasi, the daughter of MV Suez's captain, burst into tears as she met her father for the first time since he and 21 other crewmembers of the vessel were captured.
Laila told reporters that the promise made by the Sindh governor to bring her father back home was fulfilled, The News reported.
Captain Wasi thanked the governor and the media for their support. He also thanked the naval ships PNS Zulfiqar and PNS Babar for bringing them back home.
The Pakistan Navy launched the Operation Umeed-e-Nau (New Hope) to rescue the crew. The release of captivated sailors was mired in controversy, with India and Pakistani navies accusing each other of getting into risky and dangerous manoeuvres when the freed vessel was being escorted.
Pakistan alleged that Indian warship INS Godavari brushed with its frigate PNS Babar.India denied the allegations and said it was the Pakistani warship that came close to INS Godavari. The Indian Navy released some photographs to substantiate its claims.
Andhra Infrastructure GMR, Azim Premji, Vivek Oberoi among 4 Indians in Forbes' 'Heroes of Philanthropy'
SINGAPORE: Forbes Asia on Thursday announced its 'Heroes of Philanthropy' list for the fourth year running, with four Indians among the top 48 philanthropists.
Giving poor children access to education is a top priority for Indian philanthropists, said Forbes.
Billionaire Shiv Nadar of HCL Technologies takes the brightest children from the poorest villages of rural India and sends them to boarding school, noted Forbes.
Another tycoon, India's biggest philanthropist Azim Premji of Wipro, transferred nearly USD 2 billion of his wealth last December to an irrevocable trust that focuses on education and children's health and nutrition.
Infrastructure-based GMR Group founder Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao, 61, pledged USD 340 million in March, his 12.5 per cent personal stake in the business and one-eighth of his family's share, through an irrevocable endowment to the GMR Varalakshmi Foundation.
It works primarily to educate and train poor youths in 20 locations in India and two in Nepal.
Rao started his philanthropy early in career, when he ran a small business and built a school in his village.
Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi leverages on his star power to give back through his foundation.
The 34-year old has donated USD 3 million to date and helped raise USD 25 million to support education, health and disaster relief.
The list shines the spotlight on some of the Asia-Pacific's high-profile and interesting givers to society.
Four philanthropists were picked from each of the 12 markets in the region, making it a total of 48 being celebrated this year, Forbes said.
From helping victims of natural disasters to providing scholarships to the poor, wealthy tycoons and modest donors continued to dig deep into their pockets in the past year to fund projects worthwhile to them.
"Some are big tycoons, even billionaires, who have a large vision of how best to help society and have donated millions of dollars to back up that vision. Others are little-known citizens who are extremely generous with their limited funds.
"Our goal is not to rank the biggest givers by dollar amounts or percentage of assets, those figures would be impossible to collect. Instead, the aim is to call attention to a mix of notable people and causes throughout the region and to encourage more giving," explained Forbes Asia Senior Editor John Koppisch.
15 years later, Dada still Lord of Lord's
KOLKATA: Fifteen years is a long time in the life of a sportsperson, but for Sourav Ganguly, memories of Lord's are still fresh in his mind. It was on June 22, 1996, that Sourav became the first Indian cricketer to hit a century on Test debut at the 'Mecca' of cricket. He remains the only one to do so.
"It's been a long time, but those are very happy memories," says Sourav, reminicising about the English summer that heralded the dawn of a new era in Indian cricket.
Chasing England's first-innings tally of 344, Sourav, who came in to bat at 25 for one, stood firm at one end even as India lost the wickets of Nayan Mongia (24), Sachin Tendulkar (31), Mohammad Azharuddin (16) and Ajay Jadeja (10) before he found an able ally in another debutant, Rahul Dravid.
The duo shared a 94-run partnership for the sixth wicket to help India gain a first innings lead of 85. Sourav, who was unbeaten on 26 on Day 2 (June 21), went on to make a flawless 131, but Dravid was unlucky to miss his century by just five runs.
"It was easily the best moment of my career. A century on debut at Lord's ... it doesn't get bigger than this," Sourav told TOI. "Looking back, I feel it was destiny at work," he adds.
To say that he was under pressure would be an understatement. Included as the fifth pacer, who could also bat, Sourav was under no illusion that it was going to be a make-or-break series for him. Not picked for the first two ODIs, Sourav made a splendid 46 on a seaming Old Trafford wicket in the final match. Yet, he was ignored for the first Test at Edgbaston that India went on to lose by eight wickets.
A twist of fate paved the way for Sourav's Test debut. His room partner on the tour, Navjot Singh Sidhu, had staged a walk-out from the team after a row with skipper Azharuddin. "I knew after the Derbyshire game that I would get my chance and was determined to grab it," says Sourav. Sourav admits to being a tad nervous when handed over the India cap on June 20, but with Azhar choosing to field first after winning the toss, there was time for the two Indian debutants to settle down.
"Look, it was a dream come true for me to pull on the India cap. My first day in Test cricket was a fruitful one as I picked up two wickets ( Nasser Hussain and Graeme Hick). It gave me added confidence," says Sourav, who later batted as if he was born to play Test cricket.
For most Pakistanis, India is threat No. 1
WASHINGTON: Most Pakistanis see India as a bigger threat than the Taliban and the al-Qaida and disapprove of the US military operation that killed Osama bin Laden, according to a new poll. When asked which is the biggest threat to their country, India, the Taliban, or al-Qaida , a majority of Pakistanis (57%) say India, the poll noted.
Although al-Qaida leader bin Laden has not been well-liked in recent years, a majority of Pakistanis describe his death as a bad thing. Only 14% say it is a good thing, according to a poll released on Tuesday by the Pew Research Centre.
Moreover, many Pakistanis believe the US raid on bin Laden's hideout will have a negative impact on the already strained relations between the US and their country . The poll also indicates that concerns among Pakistanis about an extremist takeover and support for using military force against extremist groups are slipping, but the groups themselves remain widely unpopular.
Just 12% of Pakistanis have a positive view of al-Qaida , down from 18% in 2010. Only 12% give Taliban a favourable rating with both Pakistan based Tehrik-i-Taliban and the Afghan Taliban getting similarly low levels of support.
There is somewhat more support for Pakistan based Lashkar-e-Taiba group held responsible for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Currently, 27% have a positive opinion of the terror outfit. Results of two surveys conducted in Pakistan by Pew's Global Attitudes Project also show that Pakistani views of traditional rival India have grown increasingly negative in recent years.
Although al-Qaida leader bin Laden has not been well-liked in recent years, a majority of Pakistanis describe his death as a bad thing. Only 14% say it is a good thing, according to a poll released on Tuesday by the Pew Research Centre.
Moreover, many Pakistanis believe the US raid on bin Laden's hideout will have a negative impact on the already strained relations between the US and their country . The poll also indicates that concerns among Pakistanis about an extremist takeover and support for using military force against extremist groups are slipping, but the groups themselves remain widely unpopular.
Just 12% of Pakistanis have a positive view of al-Qaida , down from 18% in 2010. Only 12% give Taliban a favourable rating with both Pakistan based Tehrik-i-Taliban and the Afghan Taliban getting similarly low levels of support.
There is somewhat more support for Pakistan based Lashkar-e-Taiba group held responsible for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Currently, 27% have a positive opinion of the terror outfit. Results of two surveys conducted in Pakistan by Pew's Global Attitudes Project also show that Pakistani views of traditional rival India have grown increasingly negative in recent years.
Airliner to run jets on used cooking oil
THE HAGUE: Dutch airline KLM announced on Wednesday that it will use a biofuel generated from used cooking oil to power more than 200 commercial flights between Paris and Amsterdam starting in September. "There will be 50% traditional kerosene and 50% biofuel extracted from used cooking oil," KLM spokesman Gedi Schrijver told AFP, adding that KLM is the first airline to use this type of fuel in commercial flights.The company said in a statement that using the fuel involved no technical changes to its aircraft. "All biofuels used by KLM also have to meet precisely the same technical specifications as traditional kerosene and must not require any adjustments to aircraft engines or infrastructure," the statement said. Made by US company Dynamic Fuels, the bio-kerosene is produced primarily from vegetable cooking oil that comes from restaurants . In its statement, KLM noted that "the costs of biofuels need to come down substantially and permanently," before the company could contemplate using "100% sustainable energy." But, KLM said, using the hybrid fuel in 200 flights is "another important step in aviation sustainability ."
200 agents for criminal investigation in I-T dept
NEW DELHI: Amid pressure to crack down on black money, the government is set to hire 200 special agents to probe cases taken up by the newly-set up Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) under the Income Tax department.
These agents, who are proposed to be brought on deputation from armed forces, paramilitary and also include police personnel, will be security experts with investigating experience, technical experts and legal experts.
Officials said the idea was to ensure that the newly-created agency had manpower to pursue cases from inception to conclusion -- from surveillance, leading to arrest to conclusion of trial.The notification for setting up DCI was issued on May 30.
The agency has been tasked with seeking and collecting information about individuals, companies and transactions suspected to be involved in criminal activities – either within the borders of the country or international – that pose a threat to national security and are punishable under direct tax laws.
Besides, the help of special agents would be required to track the use and source of funds.DCI has been vested with powers to enter into special agreements with central and state government agencies, as also with international agencies as part of the drive to crack down on tax-related cases that have a criminal element.
The agency is being given powers to hire special prosecutors, develop witness protection programmes and coordinate with other agencies.
A notification is to be issued to equip DCI with search, seizure and survey powers as well as the authority to issue summons.
Sources said the agency will be headed by a chief commissioner rank officer who will report to the member (investigation) in the Central Board of Direct Taxes. In addition, eight directors of income tax dedicated for criminal investigation will be posted in the four metros and another four in Chandigarh, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Lucknow.
These agents, who are proposed to be brought on deputation from armed forces, paramilitary and also include police personnel, will be security experts with investigating experience, technical experts and legal experts.
Officials said the idea was to ensure that the newly-created agency had manpower to pursue cases from inception to conclusion -- from surveillance, leading to arrest to conclusion of trial.The notification for setting up DCI was issued on May 30.
The agency has been tasked with seeking and collecting information about individuals, companies and transactions suspected to be involved in criminal activities – either within the borders of the country or international – that pose a threat to national security and are punishable under direct tax laws.
Besides, the help of special agents would be required to track the use and source of funds.DCI has been vested with powers to enter into special agreements with central and state government agencies, as also with international agencies as part of the drive to crack down on tax-related cases that have a criminal element.
The agency is being given powers to hire special prosecutors, develop witness protection programmes and coordinate with other agencies.
A notification is to be issued to equip DCI with search, seizure and survey powers as well as the authority to issue summons.
Sources said the agency will be headed by a chief commissioner rank officer who will report to the member (investigation) in the Central Board of Direct Taxes. In addition, eight directors of income tax dedicated for criminal investigation will be posted in the four metros and another four in Chandigarh, Jaipur, Ahmedabad and Lucknow.
Residential rentals show upward trend
BANGALORE: Residential housing and apartment rentals in the city have increased by 5%-10% over the past 6-12 months. After a lull during the peak of the recession, the city is now abuzz with increased economic activity and job creation that are fuelling demand for rented properties.
Feroze Abdullah, CEO, Feroze Estate and Properties, said growing job opportunities here are causing residential rents to rise.Though the city's IT sector has been the main driver for economic activity, related industries that support it have also seen growth. The city is also home to manufacturing giants like Bosch, Toyota and government establishments like BEML which are all in growth and hiring mode. Karnataka receives the second highest flow of foreign investments in the country, a large chunk of which comes into Bangalore.
Abdullah added that though rentals have increased since the recession, they have not breached levels seen before the recession. Farook Mahmood, who owns Silverline Realty, said apartment rentals especially in peripheral areas have been less affected because of substantial supply.
A good two-bedroom apartment in Indiranagar now has a monthly rental of Rs 20000 - Rs 25,000, while a three-bedroom apartment is Rs 40000 - Rs 50,000. Independent houses in HSR Layout cost up to Rs 45000 - Rs 60,000 monthly.
Gerald Suresh, who runs real estate consulting firm Ground Realities, said certain parts of the city such as North Bangalore have seen a sharper rise in rentals due to proximity to the airport. Some areas like Sarjapur Road, Koramangala and Yelahanka have also seen a significant hike in rents due to low supply of residences."The low availability of residential spaces adds to increase in rates in South Bangalore," says Dennis Anand, who runs Value Multiplier property consultants.
The city is also now home to a huge migrant population who have come here for education and jobs. Moreover, with Bangalore emerging as the Silicon Valley of the East, the influx of foreign nationals and NRIs has also propped up rentals in premium areas like Lavelle Road and Koramangala.
Some analysts say the inflationary conditions are also contributing to a rise in rentals. With the rise in the average cost of living with higher prices of household goods and other utilities, landlords are now seeking a further hike in rentals.
Feroze Abdullah, CEO, Feroze Estate and Properties, said growing job opportunities here are causing residential rents to rise.Though the city's IT sector has been the main driver for economic activity, related industries that support it have also seen growth. The city is also home to manufacturing giants like Bosch, Toyota and government establishments like BEML which are all in growth and hiring mode. Karnataka receives the second highest flow of foreign investments in the country, a large chunk of which comes into Bangalore.
Abdullah added that though rentals have increased since the recession, they have not breached levels seen before the recession. Farook Mahmood, who owns Silverline Realty, said apartment rentals especially in peripheral areas have been less affected because of substantial supply.
A good two-bedroom apartment in Indiranagar now has a monthly rental of Rs 20000 - Rs 25,000, while a three-bedroom apartment is Rs 40000 - Rs 50,000. Independent houses in HSR Layout cost up to Rs 45000 - Rs 60,000 monthly.
Gerald Suresh, who runs real estate consulting firm Ground Realities, said certain parts of the city such as North Bangalore have seen a sharper rise in rentals due to proximity to the airport. Some areas like Sarjapur Road, Koramangala and Yelahanka have also seen a significant hike in rents due to low supply of residences."The low availability of residential spaces adds to increase in rates in South Bangalore," says Dennis Anand, who runs Value Multiplier property consultants.
The city is also now home to a huge migrant population who have come here for education and jobs. Moreover, with Bangalore emerging as the Silicon Valley of the East, the influx of foreign nationals and NRIs has also propped up rentals in premium areas like Lavelle Road and Koramangala.
Some analysts say the inflationary conditions are also contributing to a rise in rentals. With the rise in the average cost of living with higher prices of household goods and other utilities, landlords are now seeking a further hike in rentals.
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