India News: August 2005

Hurriyat leaders invited for talks
Wednesday, August 31, 2005 | MP

The Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has invited Hurriyat Chairman and other leaders for talks in New Delhi on Sept 5. Singh has been retaining that he was ready to hold talks with any group that disdained violence. The PMO has been in touch with the Kashmiri leaders for quite some time now. The PM's talks with Hurriyat will take place ahead of his meeting with Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf on September 14 in New York during the UN General Assembly. Hurriyat leaders, after their 15-day visit to Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), had expressed a desire to meet the Prime Minister.

Chidambaram issue rocks Houses
Wednesday, August 31, 2005 | MP

Finance Minister P Chidambaram’s issue over his lawyer wife Nalini taking up an Income Tax Department case rock both Houses of Parliament. Opposition members staged a walkout expressing dissatisfaction over the Finance Minister's statement that he had "no knowledge" of the matter till it was raised in Rajya Sabha. The Rajya Sabha was adjourned twice, while the Lok Sabha had witnessed noisy scenes as the opposition demanded the resignation of the Finance Minister.

India Pak exchange lists of wanted criminals
Tuesday, August 30, 2005 | MP

India and Pakistan exchanged lists of terrorists and criminals wanted in each others country. Indian side is said to have submitted a list of 30 wanted terrorists and criminals which include underworld gangsters Dawood Ibrahim, Chotta Shakeel, terrorist group chief Maulana Masood Azhar and Ulfa head Paresh Barua. Islamabad also presented its list of wanted fugitives in India. The lists were swapped during the two day Home Secretary dialogues between the two countries. Welcoming Pak move to grant consular access to Sarbajit Singh, India said the issue would now be followed at diplomatic level.

NIO files patents for compounds isolated from green mussel
Monday, August 29, 2005 | MP

Compounds isolated from green mussel, a small sea creature promises to treat a variety of diseases like malaria, osteoporosis, TB, AIDS, influenza, hepatitis, herpes etc. The first International acclaim for Indian scientists’ efforts to medically exploit the sea animal came when the researches from the National Institute of Oceoneography(NIO),Panaji tied up with International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology(ICGEB) in Delhi, National Center for Cell Sciences in Pune and IIT, Kanpur . They were granted together a US patent for the process of isolating active chemicals from green mussel and proving its effectiveness against osteoporosis. 14 patents on various compounds isolated from green mussel have been filed so far. The active compound, NIO-3 inhibits the functioning of bone eating osteoclast cells thereby reducing chances of developing osteoporosis.

Singh and Karzai vow to fight terrorism
Monday, August 29, 2005 | MP

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on his 2 day visit to Kabul, offered all support to Afghanistan to tackle terrorism and extremism and announced a fresh $50 million assistance for its reconstruction process. Both the leaders affirmed their commitment to work together to fight terrorism and extremism .The two countries signed three pacts covering areas of education, health care and agricultural research. Singh also announced that India would adopt100 villages in Afghanistan to promote integrated rural development.

No privitastion of public sector banks: FM
Monday, August 29, 2005 | MP

Finance Minister said that the public sector banks would continue as such with the Center being the major share holder. Praising nationalized banks for their role in agriculture sector lending he said that they had lent Rs 1.15 lakh crore to the sector exceeding the target of 10,000 crore. They also had made a mark in educational loan lending. Also nationalised banks had helped the government realize its dream of helping people at the low level by extending loans to women’s self-help groups. “What the Center wants for them now is to grow”, said Mr Chidambaram.

PM’s Kabul visit
Sunday, August 28, 2005 | MP

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, at the invitation of Afghanistan President Karzai will be leaving to Kabul today on a 2 day visit. This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister during the last 29 years. The two countries will review their bilateral ties and situation in the region. PM will also announce a $50-million economic package for Afghanistan during this visit. PM will also hold talks with Afghan leaders on India’s assistance programme to Afghanistan and would also handover renovated Habiba school under India’s assistance programme to Afghan authorities. India’s assistance is focused on building up infrastructure.

Breast cancer more in urban India
Sunday, August 28, 2005 | MP

Breast Cancer is reported to be overtaking cervical cancer and has become the most common cancer affecting women in urban India. However this statistic was not true in rural areas which indicate that life style changes in cities were responsible for the increased incidence of breast cancer. Family history, having the first child at a later age, not breast feeding, earlier onset of menses, later menopause, becoming overweight are all factors that can put women at the risk of developing breast cancer. Women in India are said to delay being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer as they were used to putting the needs of their families first, which could lead to higher risk of developing this cancer.

IT help control risk management
Saturday, August 27, 2005 | MP

According to experts, information technology will play a decisive role in managing risks in the financial sector, including banks. “Intense competition in banking sector in India is drawing banks to offer new products which are bringing in unknown risks with it,” C Krishnan, head, risk management, Tata Consultancy Services said. Risk management process has come a long way since 1980s when the focus was on cost and revenue management to the 90s when the focus shifted to risk control, portfolio management and return on capital. “Financial institutions and banks in their day-to-day operations have to cope-up with various risks including market risk, credit risk and operational risk. Optimum use of its tools will help banks to manage risks more effectively,” he said.

Triangular Series: India collapse to Kiwis
Saturday, August 27, 2005 | MP

India collapsed to a 51 run defeat in their first match against New Zealand in the triangular series in Bulawayo on Friday. The Kiwi paceman Shane Bond ripped the Indian batting, who took 6 wickets conceding just 19 runs. New Zealand who stumbled to 36/5 at one stage scored a respectable 215. In return, India’ s ninth wicket stand of 118 between Pathan and Jai Prakash yadav helped them rally their side from 44/8 to 164.

La-Z-Boy enters Indian market
Saturday, August 27, 2005 | MP

US’s leading upholstered furniture company La-Z-boy Incorporated, announced their entry into the Indian market in alliance with Stanley Seating. La-Z-Boy’s focus on comfort and long lasting durability has made the brand the preferred choice for recliners world wide. Stanley Seating is the sole licensee partner for the entire Indian subcontinent. India has been targeted for its lively economy and growing demand for products in terms of quality and value. “We are confident that our recliners will be popular in India as they are across the world”, says Thomas Brown, MD of La-Z-Boy Intl. The company chairs are priced from 25,000 onwards and comes with a 10 year warranty.

FM presents Outcome Budget 2005-06
Friday, August 26, 2005 | MP

The first ever Outcome Budget 2005-06 was presented in the Parliament on Thursday, which seeks to measure the physical goals achieved on the financial expends of various ministries. Finance Minister P Chidambaram tabling the Outcome Budget in the Lok Sabha described the move as the first step towards an outcome oriented budget and shift the focus from mere financial utilization to ensuring intended outcomes. The concept developed in many democracies to make budgets more effective, is a means to develop a linkage between the money spent by the government and the results which follow. FM also stated out that there would be a Performance Budget at the end of every fiscal year indicating if the identified physical targets proposed in the Outcome Budget have actually been achieved.

Possible changes in BJP constitution
Friday, August 26, 2005 | MP

BJP has plans to bring changes into the party constitution that would implement the concept of "collective leadership". At present the party follows the "presidential system" in which the party president has the central power and appoints the entire team of central office-bearers and most of the national executive members. The party president right now has the total rights to appoint or drop any of its party bearers. A change in the party constitution would be discussed during the coming `chintan baithak,' a session to be held between the party's top leaders which is expected to take place before the Chennai meet scheduled from September 16 to 18.

India eye on intercontinental ballistic missile
Thursday, August 25, 2005 | MP

According to the Ministry of Defence, India soon would develop an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a flight range of 9000-12000km. The ICBM would likely be a three stage ballistic missile with solid fuel rockets in the first and second stages and a liquid propellant in the third stage. The missile is to have a 2490-3490kg releasable front section with 2 to 3 warheads of 15-20 kilotons each. Launch weight may be of 270-275 tonnes and an impact error of 2-2.8km. Based on the experience with the medium range ballistic misile Agni, the Defence Ministry is pressing for an ICBM which is likely to be test fired by 2008 and to be added to Indian armed forces deterrence arsenal by 2015.

Khel Ratna for Rathore
Thursday, August 25, 2005 | MP

Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore will get the country’s highest sporting honour, the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna for being the only Indian to win a medal at the Athens Olympics. The Ministry of Sports has officially confirmed the sporting awards, a total of 15 Arjuna awards to be given out on August 29. JJ Sobha and Anil Kumar for athletics, Jyoti Randhawa for golf and Deep Ahlawat for equestrian. Deepak Thakur and Helen Mary from hockey, Anita Chanu from judo and Sundar Singh from kabaddi. Rowing goes for J Krishnan and Deepali Deshpande gets it for shooting, while Sania Mirza gets it for becoming the first Indian woman to win a WTA title. Anuj Kumar gets it for wrestling. The Dronacharya awards for coaching goes to Arvind Savur. Sunita Sharma will get the award for cricket and Cyrus Poncha for squash.

Consensus avoids Women's Reservation Bill
Thursday, August 25, 2005 | MP

Government's attempt to evolve a consensus on the Women's Reservation Bill does not seem to be making any development. The Union Home Minister informed that some members of parliament suggested implementing an older formula. The main opposition BJP said it preferred the Election Commission formula of distributing 33 per cent of the tickets to women. JD(U) said if the Bill was introduced in its original form, it would demand sub-quota for women belonging to these categories. Meanwhile Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalitha backed the government's proposal and also opted for reservation for backward classes among the seats reserved for women. At present there are hardly eight per cent women representatives in the Lok Sabha.

PM to appeal for Sarabjit Singh
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | MP

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has assured that he would talk with Pakistan President Musharaff to seek mercy for Sarabjit Singh whose death sentence has been upheld last week by the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Sarabjit Singh was sentenced to death for allegedly being a RAW agent and his involvement in the bomb blasts in Lahore and Multan in 1990. The issue might be taken when foreign Secretary Shyam Saran meets his Pakistani counterpart next week in Islamabad.

NRI docs in S.Africa charged for kidney scam
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | MP

3 Indian doctors are facing charges in connection with alleged involvement in kidney scam in South Africa. The 3 medical men were allegedly part of a team of 5 leading doctors that performed more than 110 kidney transplants at the St Augustine Hospital, which are reported to be illegal. The charges were framed after local police revealed a group that recruited donors from Brazil who paid a few hundred dollars for their kidneys. These organs were transplanted into mainly Israeli clients who in turn paid more than $100,000 each for the operations. The doctors who face charges include Ariff Haffajee, his boss John Robbs, Mahadev Naidoo, Neil Christopher and Kapil Satyapal. The case has been adjourned to September 16.

Three injured in grenade attack in J-K
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | AA

Srinagar: A police officer and two labourers were injured when militants lobbed a grenade towards a police party in the outskirts of Srinagar this morning, police said. Militants hurled the grenade towards Station House Officer of Nigeen police station, Sajad Ahmad Parray, who alongwith some security personnel was on patrol at around 10.30 am, injuring him and two labourers, who were working nearby, police said. Parray was on duty as opposition National Conference President Omar Abdullah had passed through the road nearly an hour before the incident, they said.

Board not happy with some players' attitude: BCCI Secy
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | AA

Mumbai: The chaotic departure of the Indian cricket team, with captain Sourav Ganguly himself reaching the squad hotel late last night just a few hours before the departure for Zimbabwe, has upset the Indian Cricket Board, apart from coach Greg Chappell. "The board is not happy with the (casual) attitude of some players. We are seriously thinking on how to set this right," said board secretary S K Nair from Thiruvananthapuram, when contacted by PTI on the issue. According to the board's instructions to the players, they were scheduled to check into the five-star hotel near the Mumbai airport's international terminal before mid-day, but some players arrived much later than that. The waiting media contingent at the hotel witnessed the entry of at least two players - Mohd Kaif and Harbhajan Singh -- at around 8 pm and then that of Ganguly at 9.40 pm before he addressed the media at an officially arranged pre-departure conference at 10 pm. The media conference was originally scheduled by the BCCI at 6 pm, but was postponed by three hours to enable both Chappell and Ganguly to address it jointly. Finally, the two men addressed the media separately with Chappell visibly upset at the developments.

Tight security in Patna after Left's bandh call
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | AA

Patna Security has been beefed up in Bihar as the statewide dawn-to-dusk bandh called by Left parties demanding recall of Governor Buta Singh evoked a mixed response in the early hours today.Patrolling has been intensified, particularly in and around areas housing central and state government undertakings. Security measures have been taken to ensure safety of public property, specially railways, police sources said here.Government schools remained open whereas some private educational institutions remained closed.Medical services, water and electicity supply have been kept out of the purview of the bandh called by CPI, CPI-ML (Liberation), Forward Bloc, RSP and Socialist Unity Centre of India (SUCI).The parties are demanding removal of Buta Singh and his Advisor Arun Pathak, arrest of controversial RJD MP from Siwan Md Shahabuddin and a CBI probe into multi-crore flood relief scam, besides protesting alleged "loot" in execution of food-for-work programme and other welfare schemes.The CPI-M, an ally of RJD, has also called for a bandh on similar issues, though it is not in favour of recall of Singh and Pathak.

India to tackle bottlenecks in Tourism
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | AA

The Ministry of Tourism in India has reiterated that some of the bottlenecks which are a deterrent in attracting foreign tourists to India are lack of tourist infrastructure, restricted air seat capacity, multitude of taxes levied by the Centre/State Governments and limited accommodation at major tourist destinations.

The Minister of State for Tourism, Ms. Renuka Chowdhury stated in Lok Sabha parliamentary session that the ministry has undertaken two studies namely taxes levied by the State/Central Governments in the India Tourism sector and the impact of Civil Aviation Policies on Tourism in India.

GAIL to implement CNG for Beijing transport system
Tuesday, August 23, 2005 | MP

Gas Authority of India Ltd. (GAIL) is to go ahead with the project of converting Beijing’s mass transportation system from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). China wants to convert the entire transport in Beijing to CNG before the 2008 Beijing Olympics. After successfully launching the project in Delhi and Mumbai, GAIL looks forward to bring down Beijing’s vehicular pollution levels drastically through this project. GAIL, which is pursuing equity participation in Beijing Gas Company and Beijing Jianggang Gas for implementation of CNG projects in the city, has to introduce CNG in the Municipality area of Beijing. GAIL has also been offered three cities in mainland China for CNG projects. The projects will be executed by Joint Ventures between GAIL and China Gas Holding Ltd.

Tsunami and Andaman eruptions
Tuesday, August 23, 2005 | MP

Geologists from the Geological Survey of India conducting studies on the impact of the recent Tsunami have found some facts about the Bartang island mud volcanoes located in the dense forests near Jarwa Creek and Rajatgarh villages of Andaman Nicobar Islands. These mud volcanoes at the Andamans are found to have erupted immediately after the December 26 earthquake at Sumatra that generated the deadly Tsunami. Studies indicate that these present eruptions were much more intense and on a much larger scale than the previous eruptions that occurred earlier in 1984 and 2003. The eruption has engulfed the trees that were splashed with mud up to a height of 6 meters and the escaping gas continued to burn for 5 days. Eruptions seem to have triggered by rise in sea level during the high tide putting the pressure on the sub surface chambers. The gas under pressure escapes to erupt as a mud volcano.

Indians champions in Commonwealth boxing meet
Monday, August 22, 2005 | MP

The Indian wrestlers won the Commonwealth boxing championship for the first time securing 9 medals, including 4 gold in the fourth of the event in the Glasgow, Scotland. India who entered the final with 7 of their boxers also claimed 3 silver and 2 bronze medals pushing England to second position and hosts Scotland to third position. India’s Som Bahadur Pun who led the Indian assault was declared the most courageous boxer of the championship. Pun won 19:14 on points beating Herbert Nkabiti in the 64kg final.

Book & confirm Air Deccan tickets via SMS
Monday, August 22, 2005 | MP

The country’s low-cost airline, Air Deccan is offering its customers the facility to book and confirm tickets via mobile phones. Consumers can not only book air tickets from anywhere in the world, but also pay for them and reschedule their flights through SMSes. The Airline claims to be the first player in India to offer such a service. “We are soft launching this facility in southern India next week and would be nationally available by September this year,” said Air Deccan’s managing director, Captain Gopinath. It is been said that the delay has been due to a lack of secure payment gateways.

RFID technology still away from adoption
Monday, August 22, 2005 | MP

In India currently, there is a lot of interest in exploring the benefits of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in deploying it for anti-counterfeiting and anti-theft solutions. Recently, India allocated 865-867 Mhz radio frequency spectrum for EPC applications. The manufacturing, retail, logistics and FMCG sectors are seen to benefit a lot from the RFID technology. However some of these sectors in India are not yet completely IT-enabled and are in the process of deploying new-age technologies to automate and streamline their processes, supply chain, etc. Most Indian companies have traditionally not been dependent on IT systems to run their businesses. The potential of RFID can be best leveraged only by companies whose businesses are entirely dependent on their IT infrastructure.

I have received no notice from party: Khurana
Sunday, August 21, 2005 | MP

Senior BJP leader Madan Lal Khurana after being suspended from the party said that he has received no show-cause notice so far but stressed that he would chalk out his 'action plan' in a couple of days after consulting some leaders in the party and the Sangh. M.L Khurana was suspended from the party on Saturday on the charge of “gross indiscipline”. Khurana has turned a rebel after allegedly being denied nomination to the Rajya Sabha from Gujarat. He had earlier joined Advani critics to demand his resignation. The suspension coincided with Advani’s visit to Gujarat.

India needs more donated eyes
Saturday, August 20, 2005 | MP

The country is said to be facing a huge shortage of donated eyes for treatment of corneal blindness. The country needs around one lakh donated eyes every year, of which only 25,000 eyes are collected by the 109 eye banks across the country. Out of this only 70% are of good quality. India has an estimated 3 million people suffering from corneal problems of which 26% are children. But due to the shortage of donated eyes, only 10,000 corneal transplants are being done every year. Health ministry officials say that popular campaigns like “I Pledge my Eye” has failed as only less than 1% of those who committed to donate their eye actually donated them finally. Realising the shortage of donated eyes the country is facing, the ministry is organizing a national fortnight programme on eye donation from Aug 25-Sept 8.

Tough challenges ahead for IT sector
Friday, August 19, 2005 | MP

IT industry in the country has been warned by the Nasscom president Kiran Karnik, about probable competition from up coming countries in this emerging industy. India’s growth rate in the IT sector has been stable for the past one decade at 30-32 percent but there is no place for contentment, Karnik observed. Talking to the media persons on Thursday, Karnik said that the cities and States in India are now competing among themselves to host BPO centres. However there are other countries who can offer such services and they could even overrun us in future. This includes the ones like China, the countries in East Europe, Vietnam, South Africa and the Philippines.

Yoga may help reduce weight in middle ages
Friday, August 19, 2005 | MP

It appears that yoga practitioners are able to minimize the 1 pound a year of gained weight that most people carry on between the ages of 45-55. Practicing yoga for 4 or more years, for at least 30 minutes once a week was linked with a 3.1 pound lower weight gain among people who had a normal weight at age 45. A study revealed that those who practiced yoga who were overweight at 45 lost an average of 5 pounds as opposed to an average gain of 13 pounds in overweight non practitioners. Though yoga by itself may not meet minimum requirements for daily exercise, it does improve exercise capacity and makes one feel connected to their bodies, which may reduce food intake and increase sensitivity to being too full.

First batch of human brain stem cells formed
Thursday, August 18, 2005 | MP

In another medical breakthrough, scientists have formed the first batch of brain stem cells from human stem cells. Earlier a team of scientists had turned embryonic mouse stem cells into brain stem cells. This made them repeat the experiment successfully on human embryonic stem cells. This advance is significant with its importance in fighting against diseases like the Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. By a process called differentiation, stem cells can alter into any type of cell in the body. Though it is still unknown how they change, scientists believe that certain chemical and environmental signals activate it. Brain stem cells have been grown before by scientists but the results have been impure. Through genetic modification, scientists will also be able to imitate brain diseases using the technique. With this, the technology also bring in hopes of growing cells to replace damaged parts of the brain.

Payment of Wages Bill passed
Thursday, August 18, 2005 | MP

Payment of Wages (Amendment) Bill, 2004 that was passed in Rajya Sabha in December 2004 was adopted by Lok Sabha on Wednesday. The passage of the bill would guard the salary and wages of workers and timely payment besides ensuring that employers do not make illicit deductions. The Bill would increase the wage upper limit of Rs 1,600 a month to Rs. 6,500. The Bill also seeks to strengthen penal provisions. The Government also guaranteed that it would soon come up with new measures in advantage of workers in the unorganised sector.

VSNL cuts international bandwidth prices
Wednesday, August 17, 2005 | MP

VSNL on Monday announces a slash in tariff for the international bandwidth by up to 45 per cent. This shift will bring great relief to immense bandwidth users like BPOs, call centres and IT companies. The latest cut in tariffs, being sixth in the last four years, marks an enormous 84 per cent reduction in four years. With this prices of half circuit international private lines (IPLC) have come down from Rs 40 Lakh in 2001 to Rs 11 Lakh for E1 (2Mbps), from Rs 725 Lakh to Rs 114 Lakh for DS3 (45 Mbps) and from Rs 21 crore to Rs. 3.30 crore for STM-1 (155Mbps). These prices are for restorable capacities between India and the US on the Tata Indicom cable.

Eight-nation Hockey: Germany pushes India out
Wednesday, August 17, 2005 | MP

India were pushed out of the medal rounds by world champions Germany with a 2-1 win in a vital league match of the eight- nation Rabo Trophy Tournament in Amstelveen on Tuesday. India’s Kanwalpreet Singh scored a goal in the 41st minute. Germany scored through Mitthius Witthaus and Meinert. With this 2nd successive defeat, India is out of the medal race and would now play for the classification matches for the 5-8 places in this prestigious championship.

CBSE goes net-savvy
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 | MP

From November, 2005 any school aiming for a CBSE affiliation will need to know how to be a technology-friendly institution first. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) wants schools to turn net-savvy so as to keep pace with its own change in style of working. Now on, any school wanting a CBSE affiliation could do so only by applying to the CBSE via “online”.

Technology on the rise
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 | MP

With the modern technology evolving so rapidly, many new technology devices are in the rise. Podcasting is a new technology, which is a way to package audio content the way MP3s package music. It allows listeners to listen to programmes on their cellphone Podcast devices at their leisure, unlike radio, which runs on a fixed schedule. Likewise, ‘smart dusts’ are minute electro-mechanical devices that have sensor, wireless communication capabilities and power supply built into them. Also called ‘motes’, these micro devices when dispersed into a room, can monitor conversation and video and control the room temperature.

Genetic decoding of rice completed
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 | MP

The genetic code of rice plant has been decoded by an international team of scientists from various countries, including India. This achievement is more significant as these findings could improve the conditions of the poor; with millions of hungry people across the world dependent on rice the most. Also the completion of the rice genome is expected to speed conventional breeding programmes, allowing researchers to produce rice strains that can sustain drought and disease and that grow in colder weathers and at higher altitudes. Rice is the first crop plant whose entire genetic sequence, or genome, has been decoded and held in computer data banks around the world.

PM focuses on terrorism on I-Day
Tuesday, August 16, 2005 | MP

Addressing the nation on Independence Day, in a 50-minute speech that dwelt on a series of issues, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh mainly focused on the subject of terrorism cautioning terrorist groups of a “hard response” if they carry on with violence. Dr. Singh also told Pakistan to dismantle the entire infrastructure of terrorism rather than just making “half hearted” approach towards it. Referring especially on J&K, he urged for a united effort from all the groups in J&K to curb the extremism. PM also promised full assistance to the flood hit states of Maharastra, Gujarat and Karnataka. He also talked about the government’s priority on infrastructure development programme, maintaining 7 percent economic growth this year.

NASA to train Indian astronaut
Friday, August 12, 2005 | MP

The India-US Joint Working Group on Civilian Space Cooperation plans to work out details for training an Indian astronaut at NASA for a possible space mission abroad in one of the US-manned space shuttle fleet. The proposal was made during Prime Minister’s recent visit to the US. Suitable candidate for the training program will have to undergo vigorous basic and advanced training sessions which could run up to 2 years which consists of training on aircraft safety, basic knowledge of the shuttle system, including payloads and advanced training ranging from guidance, navigation and control systems to payload development and retrieval systems. The Joint Working Group on Civilian Space Cooperation was formed as a follow up to Indo-US cooperation held in India last year and is scheduled to meet in September to discuss on the details.

IA extends Monsoon Offer till Sept 5
Friday, August 12, 2005 | MP

Following its demand from the public, Indian Airlines has extended its Mansoon Super Saver scheme till September 5, 2005. Under this scheme IA offered unrestricted domestic travel at economic prices. The ticket consisting of 12 coupons was available for an all-inclusive price of Rs 48,500 in economy class and Rs 72,500 in executive class. The Mansoon scheme was valid against a single coupon between two city pairs where there was no change of aircraft and flight number with the exception of few sectors.

PM makes apology
Friday, August 12, 2005 | MP

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh apologized for the anti- Sikh riots in 1984 and said that his government was committed to further probe into charges against all the people involved as reported by the Nanavati Commission. “I apologise not only to the Sikh community, but to the whole nation because what took place in 1984 is the negation of the concept of nationhood enshrined in our Constitution,” PM said. Home Minister Shivaraj Patil announced two committees to pay compensation to the victims of the riots within 2 months.

Jagdish Tytler resigns
Thursday, August 11, 2005 | MP

In the wake of Nanavati Commission report on anti Sikh riots, Union Minister for NRI Affairs Jagdish Tytler resigned on Wednesday night. The resignation was accepted by President A P J Kalam with immediate effect on the recommendation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. In the Lok Sabha the Opposition sponsored motion on the anti-Sikh riots was defeated and the PM made a ‘solemn promise’ that the government will reopen and reconsider specific cases mentioned in the probe report.

10 Million Jobs by 2009: NASSCOM
Wednesday, August 10, 2005 | MP

Nasscom says that by 2009, 10 million jobs would be available to Indians in the services sector. According to India Inc, the 21th century would belong to the service sector. For this the government needs to ease up a number of service sectors. Also India has to influence this powerful diplomatic tool internationally to get talented Indians into markets abroad, easing visa limitations and, as in merchandise, securing market share for India’s brains, and eventually investment into India. The premier league of countries in the services sector has joined forces to put this knowledge industry on the international trade map.

India to enhance trade with Canada
Wednesday, August 10, 2005 | MP

India plans to boost trade and industrial ties with Canada and to double its exports to over two billion dollars by the end of the decade. Indian companies would be encouraged to have tie-ups with top Canadian multinational companies, which have giant chain stores across the country, said, Satish Mehta Consul General of India. The first priority would be to market India in Canada and strengthen trade relations between the two countries. India has the best possible environment for Canadian investors in infrastructure, biotechnology, animal husbandry, environment and food processing, etc. India would project its excellence in various fields like handicrafts, jewellery, software and other up coming areas in the Canadian market through exhibitions and conferences, the diplomat said.

Sri Lanka beat India to win Indian Oil Cup
Wednesday, August 10, 2005 | MP

Sri Lanka won the tri-series Indian Oil Cup on Tuesday beating India by 18 runs. Indian batsmen threw away a good chance of victory in the final by leaving too much to be done by the lower order. Sri Lanka electing to bat first took 281/9. India in return could score only 263/9. Sri Lankan batsman Mahela Jayawardene won both the Man of the Match and the Man of the Series awards.

Nanavati’s riots report tabled in Parliament
Tuesday, August 9, 2005 | MP

The report of the G T Nanavati Commission on 1984 anti-Sikh riots along with the Action Taken Report (ATR) was tabled in the Parliament on Monday by Home Minister Shivraj Patil. The report indicts Congress leaders, DD Sastri, Sajjan Kumar and Union Minister Jagdish Tytler. Justice Nanavati maintained that local Congress leaders were in some way "involved" in the riots and further probe was needed in this regard. The report also alleges of complete failure of the police administration, stating so many people would not have died in three days if police had taken action. NDA said it will ask the President to intervene against anti-Sikh rioters and Jaswant Singh demanded a debate on Nanavati report in Rajya Sabha. Dissatisfied Sikh bodies have demanded Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s resignation.

India qualify for the tri-series final
Monday, August 8, 2005 | MP

India beat West Indies by 7 runs, thereby qualifying for the tri-series final. Yuvraj top-scored with 110 from 114 balls, rescuing India from 51-3 with a fourth-wicket stand of 165 with Kaif. India who won the toss elected to bat first and took 262/4. West Indies fought hard till the end but agonisingly ended at 255/9 in 50 overs handing the Indians a nerve-wracking 7 run victory. India will take on Srilanka in the finals at Colombo on Tuesday.

Tests for avian flu developed
Monday, August 8, 2005 | MP

The High Security Animal Disease Laboratory in Bhopal has come with a range of chemicals required for a modern molecular biology test to detect the avian flu virus. With this India has readied its first set of diagnostics against the deadly avian flu to protect the nation against the attack of the virus which experts apprehend may enter the country through migratory birds. This sophisticated test (RT-PCR) can detect even the minute traces of all sub- types of the dreaded agent from a sample. This dreaded disease flu has been reported to spread over to human beings as well.

Politics not be treated as dirty game: Speaker
Sunday, August 7, 2005 | MP

Referring to the incident in which Mamata Banerjee threw a bunch of papers at the deputy speaker in Lok Sabha on Thursday, Speaker Somanath Chatterjee expressed concern that too few leaders and parties had spoken up against the Trinamool Congress leader’s violation of modesty in the House. Politics should not be treated as a “dirty game”. “The time has come when it has to be realized by all sections of people that unless the quality of membership is lifted we cannot have better government”, Mr. Chatterjee said.

ODEPC recruitments for UAE
Saturday, August 6, 2005 | AA

The Overseas Development and Employment Promotion Consultants (ODEPC) Ltd. recruits personnel for the posts of Mechanical Engineer and HSE (Health Safety and Environment) Officer to Das island and Zirku island in UAE. The candidates should possess a UAE driving license. Those applying for the post of mechanical engineer should have degree in mechanical engineering/ degree in automobile engineering,experience in oil/ gas field and experience in the maintenance of crane,fork- lift bulldozer and heavy and light vehicles. A salary of 8000 dirhams and other allowances are offered. For the post of HSE officer,the candidates should have high educational qualifications in the field and proficiency in the execution of health and safety works in the oil/gas field. They should also have sound knowledge of rules and regulations in HSE management and ability to run an institution employing over 500 persons. A salary of 5000 dirhams and other allowances are offered. Interested candidates can send their bio-data,copies of proof for educational qualifications and experience and a passport size photograph in the address: The Managing Director,ODEPC Ltd.,Ambalathumukku,Vanchiyoor P. O.,Thiruvananthapuram- 695 035 before 5th August 2005.

Indian Mission's attestation necessary for Kuwait bound workers
Saturday, August 6, 2005 | AA

The Minister of State for Overseas Indian Affairs,Mr. Jagdish Tytler informed the Lok Sabha that Indian workers going to Kuwait and Jordan are required to submit employment documents duly attested by the Indian Mission concerned. Also on the passports of such workers specific endorsement 'NOT FOR EMPLOYMENT IN IRAQ'is made.

'Look West'policy to boost co- operation with Gulf countries
Saturday, August 6, 2005 | AA

The Prime Minister,Dr. Manmohan Singh,has authorised the Union Commerce and External Affairs Ministries to begin negotiations with the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) to conclude a India-GCC Free Trade Agreement. He has also approved negotiations with individual member countries of GCC including United Arab Emirates,Kuwait,Qatar,Oman,Bahrain and Saudi Arabia for a comprehensive economic co-operation agreement covering services sector and investment. Chairing a meeting of the Trade and Economic Relations Committee,Dr. Singh said,"the Gulf region,like South-East and South Asia,is part of our natural economic hinterland. We must pursue closer economic relations with all our neighbours in our wider Asian neighbourhood. India has successfully pursued a 'Look East'policy to come closer to the countries of South-East Asia. We must,similarly,come closer to our western neighbours in the Gulf."

Qatar Airways announces special fares
Saturday, August 6, 2005 | AA

Special business class promotional fares and baggage allowances have been announced by the Qatar Airways. This would benefit travellers from India to around 63 destinations. This would be beneficial for travellers who purchase return tickets in the India- Doha- India sector. The passengers will have the privilege to get five star facilities of business class at Rs. 3,300 for one way and Rs. 6,600 for return to their economy class. A baggage allowance of 30kg is also offered.

Kalam asks scientists to design & develop LCA
Saturday, August 6, 2005 | MP

While addressing the scientists at Research Centre Imarat (RCI), the President, A P J Adbul Kalam urged the scientists to design and develop Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) which could compete with European, American and Russian aircrafts. Kalam also described the hurdles that scientists faced to produce LCA and told that LCA should be introduced into service squadron for operational purpose. "Though we were denied the technology, our scientists took it as a challenge and developed LCA and on February 10 this year, three LCA 'Tejas' flew as part of Aero India 2005 after logging 187 flight hours," he said. "We still have to work towards flying our aircraft with European, American and Russian fighters in Paris and other air shows in different part of the world," the President added.

UN hopes jolted again
Saturday, August 6, 2005 | MP

India's hopes of getting into the UN Security Council via the G4 route are jolted again with the African Union’s decision not to pursue a joint resolution on expanding the UN Security Council. Meanwhile China and the US are reported to have agreed to work together to oppose the move for UNSC membership by G-4 countries comprising India, Brazil, Germany and Japan. India and other G-4 countries have said they will continue negotiations for a consensus on the issue. Nirupam Sen, India's top diplomat at the UN, took the most pragmatic view, saying "... politically, without AU, the reform is simply not conceivable."

Sania Mirza in top-50 world rankings
Friday, August 5, 2005 | MP

Sania Mirza enters into the top-50 world rankings with a 6-2, 6-1 win over the world number 8 Nadia Petrova of Russia in San Diego. Though she lost to Japan’s Akiko Morigamai in the third round of San Diego Classic (2-6, 6-4, 4-6) on Friday, the 18 year old pushed her ranking up to 47th on the WTA tour. She becomes the first Indian since Ramesh Krishnan to break into the top-50 in the world rankings.

SC upholds death sentence for Afzal
Friday, August 5, 2005 | MP

A division bench in the Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the death penalty for Mohammad Afzal, the key accused in the 2001 Parliament attack case. However the death sentence for his associate Shaukat Hussain Guru is converted to 10 years imprisonment as the court said he was not part of the criminal conspiracy in the attack. Terming the attack on the Parliament as a severe crime, the courts said that all evidence point to Afzal who actively participated in the execution of the criminal plot and hence the collective ethics of humanity will be satisfied only if death penalty is awarded to Afzal.

Ganguly in the 10,000 club
Thursday, August 4, 2005 | MP

On his return to the Indian team with 51 from 110 balls against Srilanka on Wednesday, the former captain became the third batsman in the history to score over 10,000 runs in limited overs internationals. Sachin Tendulkar and Inzamam-ul-Haq are the other batsmen who are in this elite group. However India lost to Srilanka for 4 wickets, in the tri-series clash in Dambulla on Wednesday.

Kingfisher to begin Goa service
Thursday, August 4, 2005 | MP

Kingfisher Airlines (KA) is to start its route between the popular tourist destination, Goa and Mumbai twice a day from August 11. With the introduction of its Goa service the airline would be covering 65% of the corporate travel routes. The carrier will also increase the frequency of flights between Delhi and Mumbai from the present 3 flights a day to 5 from Aug 15. Besides the current Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Bangalore and Mumbai-Bangalore sectors, KA also plans to add more routes by the end of the year, which may include Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkatta, Ahmedbad, Lucknow etc.

UGC releases list of fake universities
Wednesday, August 3, 2005 | MP

With the growing number of fake universities across the country, the University Grants Commission (UGC) expressed concern and recently released a list of 20 such varsities in the country. Stating that these universities were functioning in contravention of the provisions of the UGC Act 1956, the commission urged students not to enroll for any course offered by such institutions. Out of the 20 fake varsities identified, 9 are in the Uttar Pradesh, which include Mahila Gram Vidhyapith, Prayag, Allahaad, Varanaseya Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya, Varanasi and Indian Education Council of UP, Lucknow. Also listed DDB Sanskrit University, Putur, Trichi in Tamilnadu , Handwriting University, Bangalore, Badaganvi Sarkar World open University Education Society, Belgaum in Karnataka, and St’Johns University, Kishanttam, Kerala.

Arrest me, I am available: Anil Ambani
Wednesday, August 3, 2005 | AA

Mumbai, Aug 2 (PTI) Facing severe flak from several quarters over delay in restoration of power in some areas, Reliance Energy Ltd Chairman Anil Ambani today denied any negligence on the part of the company and said he was willing to court arrest if the authorities wanted that.Asked about reports that the government could arrest some REL officials over delay in restoration of power supply, Ambani said: "Arrest me, I am available here."I am not getting into a blame game. Taking action under the law is a privilege of the government and authorities. Putting a group of 100 people behind bars would not give power to my 45,000 consumers," he said, adding, let the law take its own course."There is no negligence, no lapse. Challenges may be underestimated by the system," Ambani told a press conference convened here to brief about the power situation.Regretting inconvenience caused to consumers, he said the disaster was unpredictable, intensity was not understood and complexity of trying to come back to normal was underestimated.REL is under severe criticism from the government and the consumers in its certain supply areas, which are sans power since a week after heavy downpour disrupted normal life.Ambani also announced a Rs 100 crore disaster management plan to cope with unprecedented natural calamities in future.The company would restore power to the 21,000 residential consumers within 12 hours, provided there was no downpour.It would replace about 90 transformers in the hard-hit areas and about 50 transformers were being sourced from Delhi and rest from within Maharashtra. PTI

Remittances are an economic force in South Asia
Wednesday, August 3, 2005 | AA

Washington, Aug 3 (PTI) Remittances from international migrants to their home countries, including India, are now the largest source of external finance for developing countries after foreign direct investment (FDI), the World Bank has said A study by the bank found that in some cases, remittances were even larger than official development aid. In 2004, remittances to developing countries exceeded $126 billion -- up nearly 48.7 per cent from 2001. Actual amounts were probably much larger because they often flow through informal channels such as hawala, eluding official data collection.India received 17.4 billion dollars during 2004, Mexico 14.6 billion, Philippines 7.9 billion, China 4.6 billion, Pakistan 4 billion, Morocco 3.6 billion and Bangladesh 3.2 billion. The U.S. Was the largest source of workers' remittances ($34.1 billion) followed by Saudi Arabia ($14.9 billion). They were followed by Germany ($9.9 billion), Switzerland 9.2 billion and France 4.7 billion.The impact of remittances varies, the bank said. In Jalandhar District in Punjab, remittances received in the 1970s were put to produce use and contributed to the Green Revolution in the State by enabling families to purchase tractors and machinery to increase agricultural production.Conversely, in Mirpur in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the sustained inflow of remittances mainly spurred a housing construction boom."Most houses remain locked-up by their overseas owners while agricultural production continues to waste away. The only way out for most young people is to migrate," the bank said. PTI

US issues worldwide travel warning to Americans
Wednesday, August 3, 2005 | AA

Washington, Aug 3 (PTI) The US State Department has issued an updated worldwide caution on terrorism, warning Americans about the threat of extremist violence against US citizens and interests abroad.The warning yesterday did not list countries but cited "current information" as indicating that al-Qaeda and affiliated terrorist groups are planning attacks against US interests in "multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East." "US citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security," the statement said.The department's official caution supersedes an alert issued in March which said attacks against private and official targets could come in the form of assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings or bombings.The targets, the Department said, could include places where Americans met or visited, such as residential areas, hotels and restaurants, as well as places of worship, schools, clubs, business offices and public areas.It also noted that "demonstrations and rioting" could occur with little or no warning.The Department cited as cause for concern the spillover from the US intervention in Iraq in and outside the Middle East, as well as other recent terrorist attacks in Europe."Ongoing events in Iraq have resulted in demonstrations and associated violence in several countries; such events are likely to continue for the foreseeable future," it said. PTI

Truncal fat more in Indian newborns
Tuesday, August 2, 2005 | MP

In a research conducted by Indian and UK scientists on newborns in south India, it was found that while Indian babies were generally smaller and thinner compared with white Caucasian babies, they had generally more fat around the trunks of their bodies. Though the fat may have survival advantages for small babies at birth this could continue into adult life and lead to insulin resistance. People of Indian origin have an adult body phenotype of relatively low body mass index but increased truncal and abdominal body fat. The study is significant with rising occurrence of diabetes throughout the world and a key to pinpoint Asian susceptibility to obesity and diabetes.

Indian IT told to enhance R&D spend
Tuesday, August 2, 2005 | MP

Based on a survey done by the Center for Advanced Study of India in the US, the Indian IT industry need to use up more on research and development to ramp up innovation and strengthen intellectual competencies to ensure continued global leadership position. The study paper highlights the problems affecting the IT growth and says that companies’ low budgetary share for R&D was a major cause for concern. “Well educated young Indian professionals who assert they can take on the world and win, also express frustration about not yet standing at the technology frontier and falling behind in hardware design and production”, it said.

IISc to start research unit on earth sciences
Monday, August 1, 2005 | MP

In an attempt to bring advances in disciplines to earth science, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is integrating its Centre for Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and civil engineering departments to a single research programme- earth system science (ESS). The IISc already has groups on various subjects on solid earth, its atmosphere, the oceans and their inter relationships and related areas. The department of science and technology even has an ESS division that runs coordinated programmes on deep continental studies, Indian climate research and related areas.

Rain,landslides creates chaos across the nation
Monday, August 1, 2005 | MP

Heavy rains, flash floods and landslides continue to wreak havoc in many areas of the country, killing hundreds, rendering thousands stranded and damaging vast tracts of land. While Maharastra claiming the highest number of causalities with the official death toll over 900, lakhs of people were displaced in Orissa as the rivers in Jaipur district flooded entire villages. Southwest monsoon was vigorous in Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, UP, Goa, Kutch, Konkan Coast and Kerala. Several houses were damaged with fresh landslides in Idukki, Kerala. Situations are likely to become even worse with heavy rainfalls forecasted in the coming days too.

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