CONTENTS

1. ThE uNfOldiNg Analyzing FDI in Indias Retail Sector .......................................................................... 3

2. NATiONAl BullETiN The Mullaperiyar Dam Controversy ............................................................................... 12 National News.................................................................................................................... 15 3. iNTERNATiONAl BullETiN Afghanistan Post 2014 ................................................................................................. Year of Disasters ............................................................................................................. Occupy Movement: We are the ones weve been waiting for ................................... International News........................................................................................................... 23 25 27 29

4. BilATERAl BullETiN ASEAN Summit-2011: Deepening Trans-pacific Partnership ........................................ 35 Australia Ends Ban on Uranium Sale to India ............................................................... 38 Bilateral News................................................................................................................... 39 5. ECONOMY@ iP Rupee Depreciation: Meaning, Causes and Outlook ...................................................... 43 Economy News................................................................................................................. 47 6. SCiENCE SPECTRuM Glass Half Full or Half Empty- Analyzing Durban Summit ........................................... 52 Next Stop Mars, on Board Curiosity ........................................................................... 55 Science News.................................................................................................................... 58 7. hEAlTh iSSuES HIV/AIDS: A Battle that can be Won ............................................................................. 8. PERSPECTiVES Are we Becoming a Surveillance State? ......................................................................... 64 69

9. iNSPiRATiONS@iP Stop @ Nothing .............................................................................................................. 72 Michaels Story ................................................................................................................. 74 10. ThiNKERS ARENA An Open Letter to Sharad Pawar: Kindly Acknowledge, Minister. ............................... 11. MOSAiC Folk Dances of India ...................................................................................................... Experts Advice ............................................................................................................... 75 77 80

12. KNOW iT All............................................................................................................... 83 13. QuESTiONS@ iP Current Affairs Questions................................................................................................. 90 CSAT Model Paper........................................................................................................... 95

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Volume 1 Issue 3 December 2011
RNi No.-dElENg/2011/39748 Owner, Printer and Publisher: Atul Kumar Garg Editor: Sonal Vats Senior Advisor : Neelam Nandan Editorial Team : Dr Jayant Rai Dr S.K. Gupta Kuldeep Singh Amit Shankar Raghunath Panigrahi Niraj Kumar Surendra Pandey designing and graphics Ranvir Singh - 09818972982 Place of Publication: A-3/6, 2nd floor, Mianwali Nagar Paschim Vihar, New Delhi-110087 Ph. nos : 09810949873, 9899751545, 9873304730 Email: indiaprepares@gmail.com Printing Press: M/S Rolleract Press Services C-163, Ground Floor, Naraina Industrial Area Phase - I, New Delhi-110028 for Advertisement Enquiry, Contact Atul Garg : 09810949873 or Mail : atulmodernite@gmail.com hElP MAil SERViCE iphelpmail@gmail.com SONAL VATS Editor

EDITORS NOTE
Dear readers, This issue is indeed special. After three months of hard work and toil and appreciation from academics and students alike, we at India Prepares decided to move a step ahead and have added a new section to expand our coverage. Working with a spirited and creative young team, processing and programming your feedback continuously, we have enjoyed every bit of piecing together this magazine. With the FDI clamour rocking the Parliament and the nation once again, our cover story takes an extensive re-look at the foreign direct investment in the retail sector. In our effort to expand our editorial content by offering news and analysis relevant and requisite for your exam preparation, we have added a new section, Health Issues, which examines the HIV/AIDS disease and stigma from global and Indian perspective. Mosaic section would continue to discuss various Indian dance forms and our expert advice will take care of your basic Interview preparation based on the Mains Application Form. We also regret not having able to put up subscription offer this month too. Some legal and administrative hiccups have led to some delay and we promise that the magazine will be up for subscription soon. Enjoy the news and the discourse, both in our magazine and outdoors. As always, we welcome your comments and feedback. You can reach us at iphelpmail@gmail.com or indiaprepares@gmail.com.

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thE uNFolDINg...

ANAlyzINg FDI IN INDIAS REtAIl SEctoR

The recent decision of the cabinet to allow 51 per cent FDI in the multi-brand retail segment (from zero previously) and 100 per cent in single-brand retail (as against the previously allowed limit of 51 per cent) and then later to put it on hold amidst opposition from the opposition parties and some UPA allies led by Trinamool Congress and DMK has put forth the issue of FDI in general and FDI in Retail in particular at the epicenter of national debate once again. The pendulum on FDI retail has been swinging unreliably for years, as successive governments have dithered over this bold, politically chancy move. Some argue that had cabinet not retracted on its bold decision, it would have been the biggest step since the 1991 reforms. However, the issue has once again been pushed into limbo, smacking of utter policy paralysis and political opportunism overriding the economic logic. of major infrastructure instruments like railways but only to make huge gains for themselves and sucking the host country of its resources. But currently the global economy has been witnessing an incessant form of economic growth characterized by the flow of capital from the developed world to the developing countries. During the 1990s, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) became the single largest source of external finance for the developing countries. When faced with an economic crisis during the same period the Indian policy makers opened up the Indian markets and since then India has seen a consistent increase in FDI inflows. benefits are highly dependent on the policies of the host government. Several factors both political and apolitical have led to a greater acceptance of FDI. The envisioned role of FDI has evolved from that of a tool to solve the crisis under the license raj system to that of a modernizing force of the Indian economy. In support of their endeavor the policy makers have often cited the example of the Chinese experience of achieving high growth rate through foreign direct investment.

India opened up its economy and allowed MNEs in the core sectors such as Power and Fuels, Electrical Equipments, Transport, Chemicals, Food Processing, Indian economy has been Metallurgy, Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, showing high growth rates in the post Textiles, and Industrial Machinery as liberalization era. In the last fiscal year, a part of reform process started in the according to the Planning commissions 1990s. Currently FDI is also permissible data, the Indian economy recorded a in the Telecommunications, Banking, growth rate of 8.6% and 8% in the year Insurance, Information technology and before. This is reason enough to call it Single-brand Retail sector. FDI and Indian Economy a high performing economy. All Multi Foreign Direct Investment Policy of Developed economies consider FDI as an National Enterprises (MNEs) have been India engine of market access in developing eyeing the Indian market ever since and less developed countries vis--vis for it has opened up. The policy makers Foreign direct investment policy of the their own technological progress and for have been vigorously pursuing the government of India has been gradually maintaining their economic growth and reforms program as they believe that liberalized over the years. As early as in development. For the Developing nations high growth has been the resultant of the year 1948 and 1956 (two industrial it is: economic liberalization. FDI is seen as policy resolutions), the government policy a source of filling the savings, foreign a dominant determinant to achieve high clearly reflected the need to supplement exchange reserves, revenue, trade rate of economic growth because of the foreign capital and technology for rapid deficit, management and technological ease with which it can bring in scarce economic growth. The core objective of gaps and; capital, trigger technology transfer and the foreign capital policy was that the an instrument of international enhance the efficiency by increasing the control of industrial undertaking should economic integration as it brings a competitiveness of the market. Also FDI remain in the Indian hands. However, the government granted package of assets including capital, as a form of policy instrument to raise technology, managerial skills, capacity capital is usually preferred over other permission in certain cases for allowing forms of external finance because they are establishment of exclusive foreign and access to foreign markets. non-debt creating, non-volatile and their enterprises. Foreign capital was preferred The impact of FDI depends on the returns depend on the performance of the in specific areas to bring in new technology countrys domestic policy and foreign projects financed by the investors. FDI is and establish joint ventures with Indian policy. Initially the Indian policy makers successful in human capital formation, partners. Government also granted were quite apprehensive about the flow increases total factor productivity and tax concessions to foreign enterprises of foreign capital into the economy. efficiency of resource use. Furthermore, and streamlined industrial licensing This can be attributed to the colonial it is described as a source of economic procedures to accord early approvals for past which saw large investments being development, modernization, and foreign collaborations. In the case of made by the colonial rulers in the form employment generation. However such

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100 per cent export of output, foreigners were allowed to establish industrial units. It needs to be noted here that under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) 1974, only up to 40 per cent of the equity holding of the foreign firms were permitted. Foreign investment was permitted under designated industries along with restrictions in terms of local content clauses, export obligations, promotion of R&D and prohibition by law, of the use of foreign brands (Hybrid domestic brands were promoted such as Ford Escort and Hero Honda).

The dimensions of the FDI flows into India could be explained in terms of its growth and size, sources and sectoral compositions. The FDI inflows in India were not significant till 1991 due to the regulatory policy framework. It could be observed that there has been a steady build up in the FDI inflows in the post-liberalization period. Actual inflows have increased from US $ 143.6 It needs to be pointed out here that million in 1991 to US $ 37,763 million the restrictions were flouted frequently and in 2010. This has resulted in an annual relaxations were also granted. This process average growth rate close to 6 per cent. culminated into gradual liberalization However, the pace of these FDI inflows of government policy towards foreign has definitely been slower than some capital. It is reflected in continuous of the smaller developing countries increase in the number of approvals like Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and granted. During the period 1961- 1971, Vietnam. In fact, India had registered the number of foreign collaborations a declining trend of FDI inflows and approved was 2475 which were increased the FDI- GDP ratio especially in 1998 to 3041 during the next decade. There and 2003 which could be attributed to was dramatic increase in the foreign many factors, including the US sanctions collaboration approvals during the period Foreign direct investment policy has imposed in the aftermath of the nuclear 1981-1990 (7436 collaborations were undergone frequent changes since 1991 tests, the East Asian meltdown and the approved). This policy enabled building to make it more transparent and attractive perceived Swadeshi image during this of domestic technological capability in to the foreign investors. FDI up to 100 period of India. It is also important to many branches of industry. per cent is allowed under automatic route note that the financial collaboration has It has been widely accepted that for all sectors/activities except: outnumbered the technical collaboration protection of domestic industry for a activities that attract industrial over the years. But since 2006 India has longer period of time resulted into high licensing, proposals where foreign seen a remarkably higher growth of FDI in cost production structure along with investors have an existing joint accordance with the general trends of the poor quality. Foreign direct investment global economy with a slight dip in the venture in same field, policy announced by the government year 2009-2010. This can be attributed of India in July 1991 was regarded as proposals for acquisition of shares in to the recessionary situation in the global an existing Indian company in the economy. In recent years, Indias share a dramatic departure from the earlier financial sector. restrictive and discretionary policy in the global FDI inflows has increased The only sectors/activities where substantially. towards foreign capital. The FDI policy of 1991 proposed to achieve objective FDI is not permitted are agriculture and the Retail sector in India: of efficient and competitive world plantations excluding tea plantations, real class Indian industry. It was seen as a estate business (excluding development of Retailing can be said to be the interface source not only of scarce resource and townships, housing, built up infrastructure between the producer and the individual technology but also of managerial and and construction development projects- consumer buying for personal consumption. marketing skills. The major feature of NRI/OCB investment is allowed for the This excludes direct interface between policy regarding foreign investment up real estate business), retail trade, lottery, the manufacturer and institutional to 51 per cent of equity holding was security services and atomic energy. buyers such as the government and other permitted too. Automatic approvals were Government has simplified procedures, bulk customers. Retailing is the link allowed to foreign investment up to 51 rules and regulations on a regular basis that connects the individual consumer per cent equity in 34 industries as well since 1991 to make Indian economic with the manufacturing and distribution as to foreign technology agreements environment foreign investor friendly. chain. A retailer is involved in the act of in high priority industries. The Foreign Attempts have been made through FDI selling goods to the individual consumer Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) was policy to make India the hub of global at a margin of profit. Government of India, however, put in place the regulatory mechanism to repatriate payments of dividends through Reserve Bank of India so that outflows were balanced through export earnings during stipulated period of time. Further, liberalization measures with regard to foreign investment were taken during 1992-93. The dividend balance conditions were revoked except in the case of consumer goods industries. Non Resident Indian (NRI) and Overseas Corporate Bodies (OCB) were permitted in high priority industries to invest up to 100 per cent equity along with repatriation of capital and income. Apart from expansion of the area for operation of FDI in many new economic activities, the existing companies were also allowed to increase equity participation up to 51 per cent along with disinvestment of equity.

set up to speedily process applications for approvals of the cases which were not covered under the automatic route. Laws were amended to provide foreign firms the equivalent status as the domestic ones.

foreign direct investment and economic activities. trends and Dimensions of FDI inflow in India:

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take a glance
What is foreign investment? Any investment flowing from one country into another is foreign investment. A simple and commonly-used definition says financial investment by which a person or an entity acquires a lasting interest in, and a degree of influence over, the management of a business enterprise in a foreign country is foreign investment. how does the Indian government classify foreign investment? The Indian government differentiates cross-border capital inflows into various categories like foreign direct investment (FDI), foreign institutional investment (FII), non-resident Indian (NRI) and person of Indian origin (PIO) investment. Inflow of investment from other countries is encouraged since it complements domestic investments in capital-scarce economies of developing countries, India opened up to investments from abroad gradually over the past two decades, especially since the landmark economic liberalisation of 1991. Apart from helping in creating additional economic activity and generating employment, foreign investment also facilitates flow of technology into the country and helps the industry to become more competitive. Why does the government differentiate between various forms of foreign investment? FDI is preferred over FII investments since it is considered to be the most beneficial form of foreign investment for the economy as a whole. Direct investment targets a specific enterprise, with the aim of increasing its capacity/productivity or changing its management control. Direct investment to create or augment capacity ensures that the capital inflow translates into additional production. In the case of FII investment that flows into the secondary market, the effect is to increase capital availability in general , rather than availability of capital to a particular enterprise. Translating an FII inflow into additional production depends on production decisions by someone other than the foreign investor - some local investor has to draw upon the additional capital made available via FII inflows to augment production. In the case of FDI that flows in for the purpose of acquiring an existing asset, no addition to production capacity takes place as a direct result of the FDI inflow. Just like in the case of FII inflows, in this case too, addition to production capacity does not result from the action of the foreign investor - the domestic seller has to invest the proceeds of the sale in a manner that augments capacity or productivity for the foreign capital inflow to boost domestic production. There is a widespread notion that FII inflows are hot money - that it comes and goes, creating volatility in the stock market and exchange rates. While this might be true of individual funds, cumulatively, FII inflows have only provided net inflows of capital. FDI tends to be much more stable than FII inflows. Moreover, FDI brings not just capital but also better management and governance practices and, often, technology transfer. The know-how thus transferred along with FDI is often more crucial than the capital per se. No such benefit accrues in the case of FII inflows, although the search by FIIs for credible investment options has tended to improve accounting and governance practices among listed Indian companies. According to the governments definition, FIIs include asset management companies, pension funds, mutual funds, investment trusts as nominee companies, incorporated/institutional portfolio managers or their power of attorney holders, university funds, endowment foundations, charitable trusts and charitable societies. FIIs are required to allocate their investment between equity and debt instruments in the ratio of 70:30. However, it is also possible for an FII to declare itself a 100% debt FII in which case it can make its entire investment in debt instruments. The government allows greater freedom to FDI in various sectors as compared to FII investments. However, there are peculiar cases like airlines where foreign investment, including FII investment, is allowed to the extent of 49%, but FDI from foreign airlines is not allowed. What is the difference between Automatic & Approval routes? Automatic Route: It is there in most of the sectors. In this no permission is required, but has to notify the RBI within 30 days of issue of shares to foreign investors. Approval Routes: Activities which are not covered under the automatic route, prior Government approval for FDI/NRI shall be necessary. Areas/sectors/activities hitherto not open to FDI/NRI investment shall continue to be so unless otherwise decided and notified by Government.

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Which are the Sectors prohibited for FDI Retail Trading (except single brand product retailing) Atomic Energy Lottery Business Gambling and Betting Business of chit fund Nidhi Company Trading in Transferable Development Rights (TDRs). Activity/sector not opened to private sector investment. traditional formats of low-cost retailing, for example, the local kirana shops, owner manned general stores, paan/ beedi shops, convenience stores, hand cart and pavement vendors, etc. There were initial reservations towards opening up of retail sector arising from fear of job losses, procurement from international market, competition and loss of entrepreneurial opportunities. However, the government in a series of moves has opened up the retail sector slowly to Foreign Direct Investment. In 1997, FDI in cash and carry (wholesale) with 100 percent ownership was allowed under the Government approval route. It was brought under the automatic route in 2006. 51 percent investment in a single brand retail outlet was also permitted in 2006. FDI in Multi-Brand retailing is prohibited in India. As per the Press Note 4 of 2006 issued by DIPP (Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion) and consolidated FDI Policy issued in October 2010 which provides for the sector specific guidelines with regard to the conduct of trading activities: (a) FDI up to 100% for cash and carry wholesale trading and export trading are allowed under the automatic route. (b) FDI up to 51 % with prior Government approval (i.e. FIPB) for retail trade of Single Brand products, subject to Press Note 3 (2006 Series)[6]. (c) FDI is not permitted in Multi Brand Retailing in India. Entry options For Foreign Players prior to FDI Policy Although prior to Jan 24, 2006, FDI was not authorized in retailing, most general players had been operating in the country. Some of entrance routes used by them are discussed below:1. Franchise Agreements: It is the

Retail sector is one of the largest industries exceeding US $ 9 trillion and is dominated by developed countries. 47 of the Global Fortune companies and 25 of Asias top 200 companies are retailers. Of the total retail sales in the world, US, Europe and Japan constitute the 80 per cent. Retail trade in Europe employs 15 per cent of workforce. In the US it is 20 per cent, followed by Japan (14%), India (12%), China (8%) and Brazil (6%).

A simple glance at the employment numbers is enough to paint a good picture of the relative sizes of these two forms of trade in India organised trade employs roughly 5 lakh people whereas the unorganized retail trade employs The retail industry in India is one of the nearly 3.95 crores. Given the recent fastest growing. Even without FDI driving numbers indicated by other studies, this it, the corporate owned retail sector is is only indicative of the magnitude of expanding at a furious rate. AT Kearney, expansion the retail trade is experiencing, the well-known international management both due to economic expansion as well consultancy, recently identified India as the jobless growth that we have seen as the second most attractive retail in the past decade. It must be noted destination globally from among thirty that even within the organised sector, emergent markets. It has made India the the number of individually-owned retail cause of a good deal of excitement and outlets far outnumber the corporatethe cynosure of many foreign eyes. With a backed institutions. Though these contribution of 14% to the national GDP numbers translate to approximately 8% and employing 7% of the total workforce of the workforce in the country (half the (only agriculture employs more) in the normal share in developed countries) country, the retail industry is definitely there are far more retailers in India than one of the pillars of the Indian economy. other countries in absolute numbers, Trade or retailing is the single largest because of the demographic profile and component of the services sector in the preponderance of youth, Indias terms of contribution to GDP. Its massive workforce is proportionately much larger. share of 14% is double the figure of the That about 8% of Indias population is in next largest broad economic activity in the retail trade says a lot about how vital the sector. The retail industry is divided this business is to the socio-economic into organised and unorganised sectors. equilibrium in India. Organised retailing refers to trading FDI Policy with Regard to Retailing in activities undertaken by licensed retailers, India that is, those who are registered for sales India being a signatory to World Trade tax, income tax, etc. These include the Organisations General Agreement on corporate-backed hypermarkets and retail Trade in Services, which include wholesale chains, and also the privately owned and retailing services, had to open up the large retail businesses. Unorganised retail trade sector to foreign investment. retailing, on the other hand, refers to the

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Now, taking an example of a large departmental grocery chain, prima facie it appears that it would not be able to enter India. These chains would, typically, source products and, thereafter, 2. cash And carry Wholesale trading: (b) Products should be sold under the brand it under their private labels. Since same brand internationally, 100% FDI is allowed in wholesale the regulations require the products to trading which involves building of (c) Single-brand product retail would be branded at the manufacturing stage, only cover products which are branded this model may not work. The regulations a large distribution infrastructure during manufacturing and to assist local manufacturers. The appear to discourage own-label products wholesaler deals only with small (d) Any addition to product categories and appear to be tilted heavily towards retailers and not Consumers. Metro AG to be sold under single-brand the foreign manufacturer brands. of Germany was the first significant would require fresh approval from the There is ambiguity in the global player to enter India through government. interpretation of the term single brand. this route. While the phrase single brand has not The existing policy does not clearly 3. Strategic licensing Agreements: been defined, it implies that foreign codify whether retailing of goods with Some foreign brands give exclusive companies would be allowed to sell goods sub-brands bunched under a major licenses and distribution rights to sold internationally under a single brand, parent brand can be considered as singleIndian companies. Through these viz., Reebok, Nokia, Adidas etc. Retailing brand retailing and, accordingly, eligible rights, Indian companies can either of goods of multiple brands, even if such for 51 per cent FDI. Additionally, the sell it through their own stores, or products were produced by the same question on whether co-branded goods enter into shop-in-shop arrangements manufacturer, would not be allowed. (specifically branded as such at the time or distribute the brands to franchisees. of manufacturing) would qualify as single FDI in Single brand retail implies Mango, the Spanish apparel brand has brand retail trading remains unanswered. that a retail store with foreign investment entered India through this route with can only sell one brand. For example, if FDI in Multi Brand Retail an agreement with Piramyd, Mumbai. Adidas were to obtain permission to retail The government has not defined even SPAR entered into a similar agreement its flagship brand in India, those retail the term Multi Brand. FDI in Multi Brand with Radhakrishna Foodlands Pvt. Ltd outlets could only sell products under the retail implies that a retail store with a 4. Manufacturing and Wholly owned Adidas brand and not the Reebok brand, foreign investment can sell multiple Subsidiaries: The foreign brands for which separate permission is required. brands under one roof. such as Nike, Reebok, Adidas, etc. If granted permission, Adidas could sell In July 2010, Department of Industrial that have wholly-owned subsidiaries products under the Reebok brand in Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of in manufacturing are treated as separate outlets. Commerce circulated a discussion paper Indian companies and are, therefore, But, what is a brand? on allowing FDI in multi-brand retail. The allowed to do retail. These companies Brands could be classified as products paper doesnt suggest any upper limit on have been authorized to sell products to Indian consumers by franchising, and multiple products, or could be FDI in multi-brand retail. If implemented, internal distributors, existent Indian manufacturer brands and own-label it would open the doors for global retail retailers, own outlets, etc. For brands. Assume that a company owns giants to enter and establish their instance, Nike entered through an two leading international brands in the footprints on the retail landscape of India. exclusive licensing agreement with footwear industry say A and R. If the Opening up FDI in multi-brand retail will Sierra Enterprises but now has a corporate were to obtain permission mean that global retailers including Walwholly owned subsidiary, Nike India to retail its brand in India with a local Mart, Carrefour and Tesco can open stores partner, it would need to specify which offering a range of household items and Private Limited. of the brands it would sell. A reading of grocery directly to consumers in the same FDI in Single Brand Retail the government release indicates that A way as the ubiquitous kirana store. The Government has not categorically and R would need separate approvals, Growth of Retail Sector over 1997-2010 (a) Only single brand products would be sold (i.e., retail of goods of multibrand even if produced by the same manufacturer would not be allowed),

easiest route to come into the Indian markets. In franchising and commission agents services, FDI (unless otherwise prohibited) is allowed with the approval of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act. This is a most usual mode for entrance. Apart from quick food bondage identical to Pizza Hut, players such as Lacoste, Mango, Nike and as good as Marks & Spencer, have entered Indian marketplace by this route.

defined the meaning of Single Brand separate legal entities, and may be even anywhere, neither in any of its circulars separate stores in which to operate in nor in any notifications. India. However, it should be noted that In single-brand retail, FDI up to 51 the retailers would be able to sell multiple per cent is allowed, subject to Foreign products under the same brand. Further, Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) it appears that the same joint venture approval and subject to the conditions partners could operate various brands, but under separate legal entities. mentioned in Press Note 3[8] as below:

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India in 1997 allowed foreign direct investment (FDI) in cash and carry wholesale. Then, it required government approval. The approval requirement was relaxed, and automatic permission was granted in 2006. Between 2000 to 2010, Indian retail attracted about $1.8 billion in foreign direct investment, representing a very small 1.5% of total investment flow into India. Single brand retailing attracted 94 proposals between 2006 and 2010, of which 57 were approved and implemented. For a country of 1.2 billion people, this is a very small number. Some claim that one of the primary restraints inhibiting better participation was that India required single brand retailers to limit their ownership in Indian outlets to 51%. China in contrast allows 100% ownership by foreign companies in both single brand and multi-brand retail presence. Indian retail has experienced limited growth, and its spoilage of food harvest is amongst the highest in the world, because of very limited integrated coldchain and other infrastructure. India has only 5386 stand-alone cold storages, having a total capacity of 23.6 million metric tons. However, 80 percent of this storage is used only for potatoes. The remaining infrastructure capacity is less than 1% of the annual farm output of India and grossly inadequate during peak harvest seasons. This leads to about 30% losses in certain perishable agricultural output in India, on average, every year. Indian laws already allow foreign direct investment in cold-chain infrastructure to the extent of 100 percent. There has been no interest in foreign direct investment in cold storage infrastructure build out. Experts claim that cold storage infrastructure will become economically viable only when there is strong and contractually-binding demand from organized retail. The risk of cold storing perishable food, without an assured way to move and sell it, puts the economic viability of expensive cold storage in doubt. In the absence of organized retail competition and with a ban on foreign direct investment in multi-brand retailers, foreign direct investments are unlikely to begin in cold

storage and farm logistics infrastructure. Until 2010, intermediaries and middlemen in India have dominated the value chain. Due to a number of intermediaries involved in the traditional Indian retail chain, norms are flouted and pricing lacks transparency. Small Indian farmers realize only 1/3rd of the total price paid by the final Indian consumer, as against 2/3rd by farmers in nations with a higher share of organized retail. The 60%+ margins for middlemen and traditional retail shops have limited growth and prevented innovation in Indian retail industry. A 2007 report noted that an increasing number of people in India are turning to the services sector for employment due to the relative low compensation offered by the traditional agriculture and manufacturing sectors. The organized retail market is growing at 35 percent annually while growth of unorganized retail sector is pegged at 6 percent. The Retail Business in India is currently at the point of inflection. As of 2008, rapid change with investments to the tune of US $ 25 billion was being planned by several Indian and multinational companies in the next 5 years. It is a huge industry in terms of size and according to India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), it is valued at about US$ 395.96 billion. Organised retail is expected to garner about 16-18 percent of the total retail market (US $ 65-75 billion) in the next 5 years. The enormous growth of the retail industry has created a huge demand for real estate. Property developers are creating retail real estate at an aggressive pace and by 2010, 300 malls were estimated to be operational in the country. growth after 2011 Before 2011, India had prevented innovation and organized competition in its consumer retail industry. Several studies claim that the lack of infrastructure and competitive retail industry is a key cause of Indias persistently high inflation. Furthermore, because of unorganized retail, in a nation where malnutrition

remains a serious problem, food waste is rife. Well over 30% of food staples and perishable goods produced in India spoil because poor infrastructure and small retail outlets prevent hygienic storage and movement of the goods from the farmer to the consumer. One report estimates the 2011 Indian retail market as generating sales of about $470 billion a year, of which a miniscule $27 billion comes from organized retail such as supermarkets, chain stores with centralized operations and shops in malls. The opening of retail industry to free market competition, some claim will enable rapid growth in retail sector of Indian economy. Others believe the growth of Indian retail industry will take time, with organized retail possibly needing a decade to grow to a 25% share. A 25% market share, given the expected growth of Indian retail industry through 2021, is estimated to be over $250 billion a year, a revenue equal to the 2009 revenue share from Japan for the worlds 250 largest retailers. The Economist forecasts that Indian retail will nearly double in economic value, expanding by about $400 billion by 2020. The projected increase alone is equivalent to the current retail market size of France. In 2011, food accounted for 70% of Indian retail, but was under-represented by organized retail. AT Kearney estimates Indias organized retail had a 31% share in clothing and apparel, while the home supplies retail grew between 20% 30% per year. This data corresponds to retail prospects prior to November announcement of the retail reform. India and china There exist structural differences among the two Asian giants. Whereas in India there is democratic government and the focus is on services, in China there is Communist government and the focus is on industry. The Chinese growth story is the success of inviting FDI, whereas in India the growth story is more based on home grown capital. China allowed FDI in retail up to 49 per cent in 1992 and now it stands at 100 per cent. Whereas in India it was allowed

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up to 51 per cent in single-brand retail No global Reach: The Micro, Small in 2006. & Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector has also suffered due to lack The FDI inflows in China during the of branding and lack of avenues to period 2000-2010 crossed the US $ 300 reach out to the vast world markets. billion. Compared to China, India received While India has continued to provide just US $ 134.6 billion during the period emphasis on the development of MSME August 1991- April 2010. sector, the share of unorganised sector In terms of FDI Confidence Index in overall manufacturing has declined also China is ahead of India. Indias from 34.5% in 1999-2000 to 30.3% in Confidence index stands at 1.64 compared 2007-08. This has largely been due to to Chinas 1.93. In China the percentage the inability of this sector to access of organized retail is around 20 per cent latest technology and improve its compared to Indias meager 2 per cent. marketing interface. limitations of the Present Set up Arguments in favour of adoption of FDI Infrastructure: There has been a lack of investment in the logistics of the retail chains, leading to an inefficient market mechanism. Though India is the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables (about 180 million MT), it has a very limited integrated cold-chain infrastructure. The chain is highly fragmented and hence, perishable horticultural commodities find it difficult to link to distant markets, including overseas markets, round the year. Storage infrastructure is necessary for carrying over the agricultural produce from production periods to the rest of the year and to prevent distress sales. Lack of adequate storage facilities cause heavy losses to farmers in terms of wastage in quality and quantity of produce in general. Intermediaries dominate the value chain: Intermediaries often flout mandi norms and their pricing lacks transparency. Wholesale regulated markets, governed by State APMC Acts, have developed a monopolistic and non-transparent character. in Indias Retail sector: The main driver for adoption of Retail in India seems to be the recognition that the Indian economy faces serious supply-side constraints, particularly in the food-related retail chains. The government would like to improve backend infrastructure, and ultimately reduce post-harvest losses and other wastage. There is also a general concern, highlighted by the persistence of food inflation, that intermediaries obtain a disproportionate share of value in this chain and farmers receive only 15% of the end consumer price. Now the farmers will be able to get a better price for their products. With easy credit availability through foreign direct investment the situation of farm suicides in India will improve.

to tax the unorganised retail sector. The revenue collected by the government can be used for infrastructure development. Also India has had several retailers with deep pockets and access to skills. That they have not been able to swamp the domestic small retailer says something about consumer behaviour and small retails resilience. The argument that the advent of FDI and supermarkets will displace a large number of kirana shops is similar to the argument used during the era of industrial licensing, which was meant to protect small-scale industries. But eventually the inefficiencies and quality standards of the protected smallscale companies became apparent even to socialist politicians and licensing was abolished. Even a modest chain of 200 supermarkets, to be set up all over India in selected towns and cities in the next three years, will require an investment of about Rs 2,000 crore (Rs 20 billion), at the rate of Rs 10 crore (Rs 100 million) per supermarket to cover the infrastructure and working capital. Each supermarket may take 2 or 3 years before it becomes profitable. There is a risk that a few of them may even fail. No Indian entrepreneur will be willing and able to commit this level of investment and undertake the risks involved. That is where the international experience and skills that may come with FDI would provide the confidence and capital. Apart from this, by allowing FDI in retail trade, India will become more integrated with regional and global economies in terms of quality standards and consumer expectations. Supermarkets could source several consumer goods from India for wider international markets. India certainly has an advantage of being able to produce several categories of consumer goods, viz. fruits and vegetables, beverages, textiles and garments, gems and jewellery, and leather goods. The advent of FDI in retail sector is bound to pull up the quality standards and cost competitiveness of Indian producers in all these segments. That will benefit not only the Indian consumer but also open the door for Indian products to

With foreign capital flowing into the economy the current inflationary situation will be tamed. One key point is that we must differentiate between the interests of consumers, who constitute our population of nearly 115 crore, from the interests of retailers, who may number near five crore. The larger supermarkets, Improper Public Distribution System which tend to become regional and (PDS): There is a big question national chains, can negotiate prices mark on the efficacy of the public more aggressively with manufacturers of procurement and PDS set-up. Also consumer goods and pass on the benefit the bill on food subsidies has been to consumers. steadily rising. In spite of such heavy Undoubtedly, lower prices subsidies, overall food based inflation has been a matter of great concern. psychologically propel buyers to spend The absence of a farm-to-fork retail more than they otherwise would. The supply system has led to the ultimate resulting growth in private consumption customers paying a premium for creates jobs. The tax collection of the shortages and a charge for wastages. government will improve as it is impossible

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enter the wider global markets. The Indian Council of Research in International Economic Relations (ICRIER), a premier economic think tank of the country, which was appointed to look into the impact of big capital in the retail sector, has projected the worth of Indian retail sector to reach $496 billion by 2011-12 and ICRIER has also come to the conclusion that investment of big money (large corporates and FDI) in the retail sector would, in the long run not harm interests of small, traditional, retailers. Arguments against adoption of FDI in Indias Retail sector: FDI driven modern retailing is labour displacing to the extent that it can only expand by destroying the traditional retail sector. Till the time we get into a position to create jobs on a large scale in manufacturing, it would make eminent sense that any policy that results in the elimination of jobs in the unorganized retail sector should be kept on hold. Studies suggest that about 5 crore jobs will be lost and only 20 lakhs new jobs will be created.

materials will completely disintegrate the already established supply chain. In time, the neighboring traditional outlets are also likely to fold and perish, given the predatory pricing power that a foreign player is able to exert. As Nick Robbins wrote in the context of the East India Company, By controlling both ends of the chain, the company could buy cheap and sell dear It is true that it is in the consumers best interest to obtain his/her goods and services at the lowest possible price. But this is a privilege for the individual consumer and it cannot, in any circumstance, override the responsibility of any society to provide economic security for its population. Clearly collective well-being must take precedence over individual benefits. The primary task of the government in India is still to provide livelihoods and not create so called efficiencies of scale by creating redundancies. Steps Recommended 1. The retail sector in India is severely constrained by limited availability of bank finance. The Government and RBI need to evolve suitable lending policies that will enable retailers in the organized and unorganized sectors to expand and improve efficiencies. Policies that encourage unorganized sector retailers to migrate to the organised sector by investing in space and equipment should be encouraged. 2. A National Commission must be established to study the problems of the retail sector and to evolve policies that will enable it to cope with FDI as and when it comes. 3. The proposed National Commission should evolve a clear set of conditionalities on giant foreign retailers on the procurement of farm produce, domestically manufactured merchandise and imported goods. These conditionalities must be aimed at encouraging the purchase of goods in the domestic market, state the minimum space, size and specify details like, construction and storage standards, the ratio of floor space to

parking space etc. Giant shopping centres must not add to our existing urban snarl. 4. Entry of foreign players must be gradual and with social safeguards so that the effects of the labour dislocation can be analyzed & policy fine-tuned. Initially allow them to set up supermarkets only in metros. Make the costs of entry high along with specific norms and regulations so that the retailer cannot immediately indulge in predatory pricing. 5. In order to address the dislocation issue, it becomes imperative to develop and improve the manufacturing sector in India. There has been a substantial fall in employment by the manufacturing sector, to the extent of 4.06 lakhs over the period 1998 to 2001, while its contribution to the GDP has grown at an average rate of only 3.7%. If this sector is given due attention, and allowed to take wings, then it could be a source of great compensation to the displaced workforce from the retail industry. 6. The government must actively encourage setting up of co-operative stores to procure and stock their consumer goods and commodities from small producers. This will address the dual problem of limited promotion and marketing ability, as well as market penetration for the retailer. The government can also facilitate the setting up of warehousing units and cold chains, thereby lowering the capital costs for the small retailers. 7. According to IndiaInfoline.com, agro products and food processing sector in India is responsible for $69.4 billion out of the total $180 billion retail sector (these are 2001 figures). This is more than just a sizeable portion of the pie and what makes it even more significant is the fact that in this segment, returns are likely to be much higher for any retailer. Prices for perishable goods like vegetables, fruits, etc. are not fixed (as opposed to, say branded textiles) and therefore, this is where economies of scale are likely to kick in and benefit the

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With their incredibly high capital, FDI driven retailing units such as Wal-Mart will be able to sustain losses for many years till its immediate competition is wiped out. This is a normal predatory strategy used by large players to drive out small and dispersed competition. This entails job losses of the millions. Even the organised retail sector may face serious problems and may eventually be wiped out. The FDI driven retail units will typically sell everything, from vegetables to the latest electronic gadgets, at extremely low prices that will most likely undercut those in nearby local stores selling similar goods. They would be more likely to source their raw materials from abroad, and procure goods like vegetables and fruits directly from farmers at preordained quantities and specifications. This means a foreign company will buy big from India and abroad and be able to sell low severely undercutting the small retailers. Once a monopoly situation is created this will then turn into buying low and selling high. Such re-orientation of sourcing of

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consumer in the form of lower prices. But due attention must be given to the producer too. Often the producer loses out, for example, when the goods are procured at Rs.2 and ultimately sold to the consumer at about Rs.15 as in the case of tomatoes now. The Government itself can tap into the opportunities of this segment, rather than letting it be lost to foreign players. And by doing so, it can more directly ensure the welfare of producers and the interest of the consumers. 8. Set up an Agricultural Perishable Produce Commission (APPC), to ensure that procurement prices for perishable commodities are fair to farmers and that they are not distorted with relation to market prices. Recommendations for the Food Retail Sector With 3.6 million shops retailing food and employing 4% of total workforce and contributing 10.9% to GDP, the foodretailing segment presents a focused opportunity to the Government to catalyze growth & employment. 1. Provision of training in handling, storing, transporting, grading, sorting, maintaining hygiene standards, upkeep of refrigeration equipment, packing, etc. 2. Creation of infrastructure for retailing at mandis, community welfare centers, government and private colonies with a thrust on easier logistics and hygiene will enable greater employment and higher hygiene consciousness, and faster turnaround of transport and higher rollover of produce.

India is growth resultant and not growth stimulant. The positive impact of FDI 5. Several successful models of has been felt in the high technology integrating very long food supply sectors like telecommunication and IT. chains in dairy, vegetables, fish and The success story of the telecom sector is fruits have been evolved in India. a real confidence booster in this regard. These one off interventions can be It is clearly visible that the MNEs are replicated in all states, segments more interested in exploiting the Indian and areas. Cross integrations of markets rather than investing in capital these unique foods supply chains will goods. provide new products in new markets The retail sector is one of the fastest increasing consumer choice, economic growing sectors of India. It also employs activity and employment. a huge proportion of the population. 6. Government intervention in food Hence any measure regarding this sector such as approval of FDI in the Indian retail segment is necessitated by: retail sector will have a gigantic impact a) The lack of any other body at remote/ on Indian economy. FDI in the Indian grassroots level. retail sector will work wonders in terms b) Need to provide market for casual and of controlling inflation, creating new distant self-employed growers and jobs and increasing the efficiency and gatherers. productivity of the Indian economy. c) Maintain regulatory standards in But many believe that it may lead to wide scale unemployment, drainage hygiene. of capital from the Indian economy d) Seek markets in India and abroad and social inequity. Hence FDI in the (provide charter aircrafts, freeze retail sector should be accompanied by frying, vacuuming, dehydrating, stringent policy measures on the part packing facilities for small producers of the government so that the majority at nodal points). can benefit from the positive spillover e) Provide scope and opportunity for effects. Government should encourage productive self-employment (if Govt FDI in the manufacturing sector along cant provide employment). with the retail sector to compensate for At a subsequent stage, these interventions the resultant loss of jobs. Government can be integrated into the supply chains should also build social infrastructure of the foreign retailers in India and to enhance the human capital formation abroad, creating synergy between national so that the positive effects of FDI are priorities, market realities, globalization, greatly felt. and private-public cooperation. REFERENcES conclusion Freedom to Sell, Business India (December 11, 2011) FDI in Indias Retail Sector by Mohan Guruswamy, Kamal Sharma and et.al FDI in India: An analysis on the impact of FDI in India in Indias Retail Sector by Subhajit Ray, IITKharagpur. Economic Times and Business Line articles. FDI in India in Retail Sector: An Analysis, by Pulkit Agarwal and Esha Tyagi, www.legalIndia.in

nutritional status and increase caloric availability.

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The growth rate of the Indian economy has been very high in the post 3. Quality regulation, certification & reforms era. This has made India a magnet price administration bodies can be for investment by foreign multinational created at district and lower levels for enterprises. The relationship between upgrading the technical and human FDI and other macro economic variables interface in the rural to urban supply like growth rate, export, employment and productivity has been found to vary. It chain. 4. Credit availability for retail traders has been found that to gain a positive must be encouraged with a view to impact of technology spillovers via enhancing employment and higher FDI, the host country should achieve a utilization of fixed assets. This basic minimum human capital threshold. would lead to less wastage (India Studies exist both in support and against has currently the highest wastage in the FDI in the Indian economy. It is self the world) of perishables, enhance conclusive that the growth of FDI in

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NATIoNAl BullETIN...

ThE MullAPERIyAR DAM CoNTRovERSy

What was meant to be an ingenious solution devised by a British engineer, back in the late 19th century, to route the waters of the Periyar river to the rainshadow regions of the Western Ghats, has morphed into a singular problem of recent times: the Mullaperiyar dam controversy. Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been grappling with the unusual scenario ever since borders were redrawn with the reorganisation of states the dam is in Kerala, while its ownership and the water flowing out of the reservoir go to Tamil Nadu. Unusually for riparian disagreements in the country, the dispute is not over the right to water; it is over the safety of the dam. Kerala insists the 115-year-old dam is in disrepair and wants a new one built; Tamil Nadu argues the existing dam has been reinforced and wants the water level raised from 136 ft to 142 ft, to howls of protest in Kerala. the waters of the Mullaperiyar and its catchment, for diversion to the then British territory (now Tamil Nadu) for 999 years, for an annual rent of Rs.40, 000. After Independence, the leaders of the two States agreed informally on the continued use of the Mullaperiyar waters by Tamil Nadu. After 1959, Tamil Nadu began to use it for power generation also, without any formal agreement. This deed was, in any case, revalidated by a 1970 inter-State agreement. But it is now considered in Kerala as a blunder committed by its leaders, the two States signed a formal agreement to renew almost in toto the 1886 lease agreement, which had by then become invalid. Kerala signed the agreement without assessing the possible use it might have in future for the Periyar waters. Thus Tamil Nadu was once again given the legal rights over all waters from the Mullaperiyar for its exclusive use. From the mid-1980s, despite having 44 minor rivers, Kerala began to face extended spells of acute water and power shortages. Kerala had constructed the Idukki hydroelectric project 50 km downstream from the Periyar dam but did not have enough water to utilise its full capacity. Except on rare occasions when there was heavy rainfall in the catchment areas, no water flowed down to Kerala from the Mullaperiyar. Tamil Nadu was virtually utilising all the waters from the Mullaperiyar, and Kerala was forced to make a reassessment of its own ageold belief about the relative abundance of its water resources. The problem acquired a new dimension in 1979, when leaks were detected in the Periyar dam and that caused concern in Kerala about the safety of the dam. Since then, the question about the safety of the dam has become a dominant factor in the discord over Mullaperiyar. Kerala found it a convenient tool to outwit Tamil Nadu, which was until then in a position to claim all the waters from the Mullaperiyar.

The ongoing Furore:

After the 1979 Morvi Dam failure which killed up to 25,000 people, safety concerns of the aging Mullaperiyar dam and alleged leaks and cracks in the structure were raised by Kerala Government. A State agency, Centre for Earth Science Studies (CESS), Thiruvananthapuram, had reported that the structure would not withstand an earthquake above magnitude 6 on the Richter scale. The dam was also inspected by the Chairman, CWC (Central Water Commission) which recommended the lowering of the reservoir water level to 136 ft (from 142.40 ft at that time), until measures to strengthen the dam were completed in three stages. The team also recommended that the water level be raised in stages to the full reservoir level of 152 ft. On the orders of the CWC, the Tamil Nadu government lowered the storage level from 142.2 feet to 136 feet, conducted safety repairs and strengthened the dam. But giving one reason or the other, Kerala did not allow the reservoir level to be raised beyond 136 ft. Tamil Nadu, on the other hand, has been claiming since 1998 that it has carried out all the important measures suggested by the CWC team to strengthen the dam. A number of technical committees were appointed by the two States subsequently, but these only helped shore up the respective arguments. Based on studies conducted by its own technical experts (the latest one was in December 1999), Kerala argued that the strengthening measures done by Tamil Nadu had only made the dam safe at the current reservoir level of 136 ft and that on no account should the level be raised any further. Kerala cited a recent appraisal, which warned that a major flood could lead to a breach in the dam and expose, three districts of Kerala to deluge and holocaust. At the talks in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala demanded that Tamil Nadu install instruments at the dam for a regular,

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Chronology of Controversy:
Tamil Nadus entitlement is based on an 1886 lease deed. Kerala says the deed was imposed by the British rulers on their vassal state of Travancore, which became a part of the State when it was formed in 1956. According to 1886 lease agreement, in addition to the 8,000 acres of land used for the construction of the masonry dam across the river and the irrigation works (mainly, a tunnel through the watershed) for its transbasin diversion, this agreement had given the British the rights over all

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Fact-file
The Mullaperiyar Dam is a gravity dam made with limestone and surkhi (a mixture of crushed brick, sugar and quicklime) on the Periyar River. Gravity dams use their weight and the force of gravity to support the reservoir and remain stable. Earlier known as the Periyar dam as it was basically meant to dam the Periyar river, the present name Mullaperiyar is derived from a portmanteau (word formed by blending two or more distinct words) of Mullayar River and Periyar River, at the confluence of which the dam is located. The dam is located 881 m above mean sea level on the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats in Thekkady, Idukki District of Kerala, South India. It consists of a main dam, spillway on its left and an auxiliary dam to the right. It was constructed between 1887 and 1895 by the British Government to divert water eastwards to Madras Presidency area (the present-day Tamil Nadu). The Periyar National Park in Thekkady is located around the dams reservoir. The Periyar river which flows westward into the Arabian Sea was diverted eastward to flow towards the Bay of Bengal to provide water to the arid rain shadow region of Madurai in Madras Presidency which was in dire need of a greater supply than the small Vaigai River could give. The dam created the Periyar Thekkady reservoir, from which water was diverted eastwards to via a tunnel to augment the small flow of the Vaigai River. The Vaigai was dammed by the Vaigai Dam to provide a source for irrigating large tracts around Madurai. Initially the dam waters were used only for the irrigation but later on, the Periyar Power Station in the lower Periyar, Tamil Nadu was built to generate hydro-electricity from the diverted waters. Currently, the water from the Periyar (Thekkadi) Lake created by the dam, is diverted through the water shed cutting and a subterranean tunnel to Forebay Dam near Kumili (Errachipalam) in Tamil Nadu. From Forebay dam, hydel pipe lines carry the water to the Periyar Power Station in Lower Periyar, Tamil Nadu. This is used for power generation (175 MW capacity) in the Periyar Power Station. The Lower Periyar Power Sation was constructed in 1956. From the Periyar Power Station, the water is let out into Vairavanar river and then to Suruliyar and from Suruliyar to Vaigai Dam.

joint technical verification of the dams parameters and performance, to monitor its safety at the 136 ft reservoir level and to see that when the reservoir level should be reduced further. Tamil Nadu, on the other hand, argued that the two States should jointly approach a body like the CWC and seek a verdict on the safety of the dam. However, each rejected the others demands. The reason for Tamil Nadus rejection of Keralas suggestion is obvious. Kerala argued that a verdict by a third party without a proper joint verification of the dam parameters over a period of time could not be accepted. After the issue was deadlocked in courts, tribunals and committees over the years, Kerala changed track recently to suggest constructing a new structure with the expense completely borne by it and promising to deliver the same amount of water to Tamil Nadu. Safety for Kerala and water for Tamil Nadu, goes the slogan. But this has not found favour across the border as Tamil Nadu argues the new structure is further downstream, making it impossible to send the water to the Vaigai basin. Also, ownership, operation and upkeep is a matter Tamil Nadu would not give up at any cost, something Kerala is unlikely to comply with as it did in 1970.

long battle of writs in the Supreme Court. The court will soon resume hearing on the petitions filed by Janata Party leader Subramanian Swamy and the Tamil Nadu government, seeking the transfer of all cases regarding the dispute in the Madras and Kerala High Courts to the apex court for speedy disposal. Last year, the court had asked the two States to arrive at some consensus during a long period of adjournment. Significantly, the petitions filed seeking the transfer of all cases related to the dispute to the Supreme Court provided an opportunity for the Central government to intervene in the dispute, as the Supreme Court asked it to negotiate and seek a consensus solution. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has advised the Union Water Resources Ministry to arrange an early meeting between officials of Tamil Nadu and Kerala to sort out outstanding issues concerning the Mullaperiyar dam dispute and allay genuine concerns. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh wrote to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa saying nothing should be said or done to create undue alarm and hoped Mullaperiyar Dam issue would be sorted out amicably through dialogue. On the other hand Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam members in the Lok Sabha raked up the issue of a film, DAM 999 and demanded a ban on its release. The National Human Rights

Commission (NHRC), in its full Commission meeting, will hear the petition filed by some of the Kerala MPs seeking its humanitarian intervention to save the people of Idukki and adjoining districts that are likely to be affected if the Mullaperiyar dam bursts as apprehended. People of the area were not leading a normal and peaceful life and some of them had even started looking for relocation. Even students were reluctant to go to school. Recently the officials and a Minister said that 22 mild tremors had occurred in parts of Idukki and adjacent Kottayam districts and two minor cracks were believed to have been caused to the dam by the latest tremor, and Kerala wants to decommission the old dam and build a new dam. Tamil Nadu maintained that the reported tremors were negligible and, in any event below 3.5 on the Richter scale. There are no cracks in the dam as alleged, and the fear psychosis created is absolutely baseless. The false propaganda of 22 tremors in the past four months resulting in the dam becoming unsafe is being made without any basis as there were only four tremors in the recent past. The committee, with B.K. Mittal as chairman visited the dam on October 10 and 11. Its interim report, prepared with a note of dissent from Keralas representative, will soon be submitted

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The Present Situation (A Chain of Events):

The focus has now shifted to a potentially

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Indias Federal Water Institutions

The relevant provisions of the Indian Constitution are Entry 17 in the State List, Entry 56 in the Union List, and Article 262. The first provision makes water a state subject, but qualified by Entry 56 in the Union List, which states: Regulation and development of inter-state rivers and river valleys to the extent to which such regulation and development under the control of the Union is declared by parliament by law to be expedient in the public interest. Article 262 explicitly grants parliament the right to legislate over the matters in Entry 56, and also gives it primacy over the Supreme Court. But the parliament has not made much use of Entry 56. Various River Authorities have been proposed, but not legislated or established as bodies vested with powers of management. Instead, river boards with only advisory powers have been created. Hence, the state governments dominate the allocation of river waters. Since rivers cross state boundaries, disputes are inevitable. The Inter-State Water Disputes Act of 1956 was legislated to deal with conflicts, and included provisions for the establishment of tribunals to adjudicate where direct negotiations have failed. However, states have sometimes refused to accept the decisions of tribunals. Therefore, arbitration is not binding. Significantly, the courts have also been ignored on occasion. Finally, the centre has sometimes intervened directly as well, but in the most intractable cases, such as the sharing of the Ravi-Beas waters among Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Punjab, central intervention, too, has been unsuccessful. In summary, an unambiguous institutional mechanism for settling inter-state water disputes does not exist.

before the Supreme Court, when it resumes hearing on the petitions. Although the detailed contents of the interim report are not known, a senior Kerala government official said that the committee seemed to favour Tamil Nadu demand to raise the reservoir level. He said the report sought to support Tamil Nadus stand by suggesting, among other things, that tests be conducted to determine the strength of the masonry-and-earth baby dam (situated to the left of the main dam along which the river was diverted during the construction of the main dam) by a team of experts from the Central Soil and Material Research Station (CSMRS), that Kerala allow further repairs in the baby dam and that a decision on the raising of the storage level of the reservoir be taken subsequently, based on the CSMRS teams assessment. On 18 February 2010, the Supreme Court decided to constitute a five-member empowered committee to study all the issues of Mullaiperiyar Dam. The fivemember Empowered Committee, headed by the former Chief Justice of India A.S. Anand, at its meeting in December 2011, examined the reports it has received from various agencies it constituted to go into the safety of the Mullaperiyar dam in Kerala. In the parliament the Mullaperiyar Dam issue sparked a row between members belonging to Tamil Nadu and Kerala in both Houses of Parliament and the two sides were so unrelenting that the Lok Sabha had to be adjourned for a day. Apprehending danger to the

Mullaperiyar dam if the present water level of 136 ft. was maintained, a public interest litigation petition was filed in the Supreme Court recently for a direction to the Tamil Nadu government to drain water completely to the extent possible and decommission the dam to protect the right to life of 5 million people guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.

which appears to contain provisions that contravene existing enactments, should continue to be legally binding.

Conclusion
Common sense dictates the gathering of more and more solid, indisputable facts on the safety of the structure, the capacity of water it can hold, the seismicretrofit it has and if need of a new dam is indeed required. However, what has been washed down the river is every semblance of rationality. Politicians on both sides have taken a maximalist stance and turned the issue, which concerns the safety and livelihood of the people in the two neighbouring states, into a hysterical rallying cry for mobilisations and pointscoring. This is no longer about building opinion or stacking up arguments, but an unabashed public rhetoric that takes many colours from curtailing the right to freedom of expression to painting apocalyptic scenarios to calling for water wars. If politicians are merely enacting the role expected of them, what is noteworthy is the role of the media on both sides. Objectivity has given way to parochialism, and the other is absolutely wrong. The dispute has reached where it has now because of media activism. If the argument is it will hasten resolution, so will it political violence. A rational and sustainable settlement to this complex and sensitive issue is required. The political leadership of the two states should take cognisance of that and lower tempers.

The Reality Check

It may seem strange that the two States are fighting over the raising of the reservoir level when, especially after 1961, there were only a few occasions when the water in the reservoir touched the full reservoir level (FRL). In fact, according to Kerala Forest department officials based at the Periyar Tiger Reserve, in the past several years, the reservoir level reached 136 ft only two or three times and water never flows to the Kerala side. One factor, on which both sides agree, is that the flow into the reservoir has dwindled. The agreement was executed at a time when there was only negligible utilisation of river waters for irrigation, power, industrial and other purposes and when the water availability situation on this (Kerala) side of the Western Ghats was completely different. There is considerable concern among large sections of people in Kerala about perceived gross inequities in this agreement. It is an open question whether an agreement between an erstwhile princely state and the British government, which was palpably inequitable, and which binds down future generations without any concern for changing circumstances, and

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Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012

NATIONAL NEWS...
LEGAL ISSUES Special Courts Mooted to Try Cases of Damage to Public Property
The Supreme Court has indicated that it may ask the Central government to set up special courts to try cases of damage done to public property in agitations. A Bench of Justices G.S. Singhvi and S.J. Mukhopadhaya expressed displeasure at the Centre for not coming out with suggestions to prevent damage to public property and said special courts would be directed to dispose of these cases within three months. Justice Singhvi told counsel for the Centre that the court would also monitor the prosecution of those calling rail and road blockade as part of the measures to prevent losses running into crores of rupees. The Centre must devise a mechanism for ensuring better coordination among the police and other security agencies to deal with agitators who damaged railway property and government buses, the court said. Initially, the court took up the case of attack on Dalits at Mirchpur in Haryana and later enlarged the scope of the petition, taking up the issue of damage to public property in rail and road roko agitations staged by a section of the people in Haryana. the continued detention impermissible and illegal. In the instant case, Ummu Sabeena, Saliyal Beevi, Salukal Beevi and M. Parimala were detained under the COFEPOSA on February 26 and their writ petitions questioning the detention were rejected by the Kerala High Court on September 30. The present appeals are directed against this judgment. The main contention of the appellants was that they made representations to the Centre on March 30 to reconsider the preventive detention order and though they were rejected on April 8 by the Kerala government, the Centre took time till June 6 to reject the same. This delay was not properly explained, they argued.

Public sentiments no basis to deny bail: Supreme Court

Declaring that the right to bail cannot be denied merely because of the communitys sentiments against the accused, the Supreme Court has granted bail to five corporate executives, accused in the 2G spectrum case. Writing the judgment, Justice Dattu said: When undertrial prisoners are detained in jail custody for an indefinite period, Article 21 of the Constitution (right to life and liberty) is violated. The Bench said that in the present case the statement of the witnesses runs to several hundred pages and the documents on which reliance is placed by the prosecution are voluminous. The trial may take considerable time and it looks to us that the appellants, who are in jail, [would] have to remain in jail longer than the period of detention had they been convicted. The Bench said: No doubt, the offence alleged against the appellants is a serious one in terms of huge loss to the state exchequer. However, that by itself should not deter us from enlarging the appellants on bail when there is no serious contention of the CBI that the accused, if released on bail, would interfere with the trial or tamper with evidence. The Bench said the appellants should not directly or indirectly make any inducement, threat or promise to any person acquainted with the facts of the case so as to dissuade him from disclosing them to the court or any other authority. It granted the CBI liberty to seek modification/recall of this order if, for any reason, the appellants violated any of the conditions.

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Supine Delay over Representations will Render Detention Illegal: Court

Holding that procedural safeguards for protection of personal liberty must be strictly followed, the Supreme Court has quashed the preventive detention of four persons under the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act. A Bench of Justices A.K. Ganguly and J.S. Khehar, held that in preventive detention cases, representations from the detenus must be disposed of expeditiously and every days delay must be properly explained and accounted for. Writing the judgment, Justice Ganguly said: The history of personal liberty, as is well known, is a history of insistence on procedural safeguards. He said: The Constitution Bench in a judgment has laid emphasis on the expression as soon as may be in Article 22 (5) and held that the expression sufficiently makes it clear the concern of the framers of the Constitution that the representation should be very expeditiously considered and disposed of with a sense of urgency and without any avoidable delay.

Supreme Court Pulls up State Government for The Bench said: Considering this provision, the Constitution Mindless Land Acquisition
The Supreme Court has pulled up the State governments for their callous approach to acquisition of land from farmers and for issuing notifications in violation of the procedure under the Land Acquisition Act. Decrying mindless acquisitions, a Bench of

Bench held that there should not be any supine indifference, slackness or callous attitude in considering the representation. Any unexplained delay in the disposal of representation would be a breach of the constitutional imperative and it would render

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Justices G.S. Singhvi and S.J. Mukhopadhaya said the consequent notifications were nullified by courts on the ground of violation of the mandatory procedure and rules of natural justice. It was difficult to appreciate why the state and its instrumentalities resort to massive acquisition and that too without complying with the mandate of the statute, the Bench lamented. As noted by the National Commission on Farmers (NCF), the acquisition of agricultural land in the name of planned development or industrial growth would seriously affect the availability of food in future. After Independence, the administrative apparatus of the state did not make enough investment in rural areas and those who have been doing agriculture have not been educated and empowered to adopt alternative sources of livelihood. In its fifth and final report, the NCF headed by M.S. Swaminathan observed that prime land must be conserved for agriculture and should not be diverted for non-agricultural purposes, or else food availability would suffer in the country, where 60 per cent of the population still depended on agriculture and people living Below the Poverty Line were finding it difficult to survive. Unfortunately, these words of wisdom appear to have become irrelevant to the state apparatus, which has used the Land Acquisition Act in the last two decades for massive acquisition of agricultural land in different parts of the country.

of Justices P B Majumdar and Mridula Bhatkar observed that the court cannot strike down the amendment (which increased the reservation) as the state legislature was well within its powers to pass it. If the state legislature, in its wisdom, finds it necessary to increase the number of the reserved seats for women in order to encourage them, this court cannot strike down the amendment, the court said. Petitioner Kapoorchand Durgaprasad Gupta, president of Kandivali Hawkers Union, had contended that the decision left very few seats in the general quota. As per the amended Maharashtra Municipal Corporations and Municipal Councilors Act of 2011, the number of reservations for women was increased from 33 per cent to 50 per cent. Petition said that this was unconstitutional. It was argued that the government had not applied its mind and increased womens quota uniformly across the state, when it could have increased seats for women as per local social situation. But the court rejected this contention saying that there was no material to back the claim that women in urban areas might be more advanced than the rural women.

Judgment obtained by fraud a nullity, rules Supreme Court

A judgment obtained by fraud on court, without disclosing material facts relevant for adjudication, will become a nullity. Giving this ruling, the Supreme Court set aside a Calcutta High Court judgment quashing an FIR against nine persons, including five officers of the Central Coalfields Ltd., for breach of contractual obligations and causing a wrongful loss of Rs. 90 lakh to the CCL. Once it was established that the order was obtained by playing fraud, it would be vitiated and it was to be treated asnon estby every court, superior or inferior, held a Bench of Justices P. Sathasivam and J. Chelameswar. Citing earlier decisions, the Bench said: From these judgments it is clear that such an examination is permissible. Such a principle is required to be applied with greater emphasis in the realm of public law jurisdiction as the mischief resulting from such fraud has a larger dimension affecting the larger public interest.

16 only the current but future generations will be ruined and this
is one of the reasons why the farmers who are deprived of their holdings commit suicide. Therefore, the Bench said, it is wholly unjust, arbitrary and unreasonable to deprive such persons of their houses by way of land acquisition in the name of development of infrastructure or industrialization. Therefore, before acquiring private land, the state and/or its agencies/instrumentalities should, as far as possible, use land belonging to the state for the specified public purpose. If the acquisition of private land becomes absolutely necessary, then the authorities must strictly comply with the statutory provisions and the rules of natural justice. In the instant case, Raghbir Singh Sehrawat was aggrieved over the acquisition of his cultivable land in Haryana in 2006. His writ petition against acquisition was dismissed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Allowing the appeal against this judgment and setting aside the acquisition as illegal, the Bench directed the State government to pay him Rs. 2.50 lakh towards costs.

The Bench said: If the land of such persons is acquired not

Ban on SPOs will apply only to Chhattisgarh: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has ruled that its earlier order banning Special Police Officers (SPOs) like those under the Salwa Judum would only apply to Chhattisgarh. A bench of justices Altamas Kabir and S.S. Nijjar said its July 5, 2011 judgement restraining the Union government from funding SPOs was confined only to Chhattisgarh and not other parts of the country. The bench passed the order on an application by the Centre seeking clarification on the courts earlier order. Solicitor General Rohinton Nariman and counsel Siddharth Dave, appearing for the Centre, pleaded that if the July 5, 2011 order was to be implemented in toto, it would pose severe difficulty for the government in undertaking anti-insurgency

HC Upholds Maharashtra Act on Reservation for Women

The Bombay High Court has dismissed a petition challenging the constitutional validity of Maharashtra governments decision to increase number of seats reserved from the women in the civic bodies from 33 pc to 50 pc from April 2011. The division bench

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operations in the Northeast and other parts of the country. The Supreme Court, in its earlier order, had come down heavily on the practice of deploying vigilante groups in the fight against Maoists. The bench had asked the Centre and Chhattisgarh government to desist from arming tribals in the name of SPOs, saying it was unconstitutional. The court had criticised the governments for supporting and funding creation of SPOs under various titles like Koya Commandos and Salwa Judum whose numbers had gone up from 3,000 to 6,500 within a year. State laws mandated SPOs to help people during natural or man-made disasters and to assist administration in carrying out relief work, the apex court had in its July 5, 2011 ruling said, adding that the case of Chhattisgarh SPOs, however, violated Constitutional boundaries. The bench, which was critical of providing the young SPOs with firearms, had directed the Chhattisgarh government to disarm them forthwith by recalling all firearms issued to them.

The court said the provision is currently under criticism from certain quarters for showing a strong gender bias. It makes the position of a married woman almost as a property of her husband. But in terms of the law as it stands, it is evident from a plain reading of the section that only a man can be proceeded against and punished for the offence of adultery, it said. Indeed, the section provides expressly that the wife cannot be punished even as an abettor. Thus, the mere fact that the appellant is a woman makes her completely immune to the charge of adultery and she cannot be proceeded against for that offence, the court said.

Stay on HC Order Bringing Goa Governor under RTI Act

The Supreme Court has stayed the orders of the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court which held that the Governor of Goa was a public authority and would come within the ambit of the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The High Court had held that the Governor enjoyed no immunity from the RTI Act and that the Public Information Officer at the Raj Bhavan was duty-bound to furnish information sought under the Act. The High Court also asked the Raj Bhavan to make public the Governors report to the Centre on the political situation in the State during JulyAugust 2007. A three-judge Bench of Justices Dalveer Bhandari, T.S. Thakur and Dipak Misra stayed the orders on an appeal filed by the State of Goa against the High Court orders dated November 14. Pointing out that important questions of law had been raised in this appeal, the Bench said it would examine them and directed the matter to be listed after six weeks. In the appeal, Goa said the High Court had erred in not considering that Governor is not a public authority for the purposes of the RTI Act. The High Court had not considered that in our constitutional democracy, it is the consolidated will of the people, as the Constitution which is the sovereign, and the high constitutional offices of the President and the Governor of State, manifest the sovereign, through whom and under whose name, the authority vests. The High Court had failed to consider that under Article 361 of the Constitution immunity was granted to the Governor and he was not answerable to any court or authority in exercise and performance of his power. Further it must be noted that Governor was not subordinate to any other entity under the Constitution, and not an authority, but rather the manifestation of the State itself. Any information which is received by the Governor is deemed to be available with the corresponding department/ministry of the State government, since the Governor is the appointing authority of the State Information Commissioner and as he is also vested with the power to recommend for removal, the Governors office could not be made subservient by bringing it under the ambit of RTI Act.

Employees cant be forced to work for new management: SC

If there is change of ownership of a company, the existing employees cannot be forced to work under a different management without their consent and in that event, those workmen are entitled to retirement/retrenchment compensation under the Industrial Disputes Act, the Supreme Court has held. Giving this ruling, a Bench of Justices P. Sathasivam and J. Chelameswar accepted the contention of the appellants workmen of Philips India Ltd. - that in the present case when the company informed the workmen about the transfer of ownership of its Consumer Electronics Factory at Salt Lake City, Kolkata, to Kitchen Appliances India Ltd., the said move was not acceptable to them as they refused to give their consent.

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Woman cant be Punished for Adultery: SC

The Supreme Court has said a woman in an illicit relationship cannot be punished for adultery despite being an abettor in the crime though the husband is liable for punishment. A bench of justices Altamas Kabir and R M Lodha quashed the case of adultery registered against Kalyani by another woman Sailaja who alleged that her husband was in an illicit relationship with the former. Though Kalyani had challenged the registration of case against her by police under sections 497 (adultery) and 341 (wrongful restraint), the Andhra Pradesh High Court dismissed her plea, following which she appealed in the apex court. Interpreting Section 497, the apex court said, Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who is and whom he knows or has reason to believe to be the wife of another man, without the consent or connivance of that man, such sexual intercourse not amounting to the offence of rape, is guilty of the offence of adultery, and shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or with both. In such case the wife shall not be punishable as an abettor.

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BILLS Revised Draft of Food Bill Gives Primacy to Cash Transfers, Coupons
The governments new move to give primacy to schemes like cash transfers and issuance of food coupons to identified Public Distribution System beneficiaries in lieu of food grain entitlements in the revised draft of the National Food Security Bill, 2011, has drawn flacks from civil society. The scheme was introduced under Schedule II in the initial draft of the Bill that was posted on the Food Ministrys website for public comments. It has now been inserted into the main body of the revised draft, as a whole new chapter (VII) linked to reforms in the public distribution system, giving a clear indication that the government is moving towards it. Activists termed it as ridiculous and said in a country that was high on gender inequality, where the rural banking system was in shambles and direct cash transfers in old-age, widow and disabled pension schemes had not been streamlined, this would adversely impact food procurement and minimum support price to farmers if beneficiaries were to buy supplies from the open market. The reforms chapter also calls for leveraging aadhaar for unique identification, with biometric information of entitled beneficiaries for proper targeting of benefits under the proposed Act linked to progressive reforms in the Targeted Public Distribution System. The Bill, that calls for food grain entitlements at subsidized rates to up to 75 per cent of identified rural households and 50 per cent of urban families, lays much stress on cost sharing between the Centre and the States. It provides that not less than 46 per cent of rural and 28 per cent of urban households shall be designated as priority households. The survey to identify the beneficiaries is underway by the Ministry of Rural Development. The financial implication of providing subsidized food grains under law is estimated at nearly Rs. one lakh crore, which would be approximately Rs. 30,000 crore higher than the current food subsidy of around Rs. 70,000 crore. In addition, the revised draft provides for an expenditure of about Rs. 12,000 crore towards maternity benefit of Rs. 1000 per month for six months to pregnant and lactating mothers, whose number was estimated at around 2.25 crore in 2010 under the Integrated Child Development Scheme. The cost of providing free (or at affordable price of estimated Rs. 10 per meal) is estimated to be around Rs. 9000 crore to five per cent of the priority population. Besides this, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation has projected an expenditure of over Rs. 1,00,000 crore towards incremental production of 20 to 25 million tonnes of foodgrains. The Centre and States shall have to put in place an internal grievance redress mechanism including call centres, help lines,

nodal officers and so on before a complaint is taken to the District Grievance Redress Officer or higher level. The revised draft has been approved by Pranab Mukherjee as chairman of the Empowered Group of Ministers. It has now been circulated to related departments and will be put to the Union Cabinet for approval.

Rs. 1-crore fine proposed for charging capitation fee

In a bid to prevent educational institutions from demanding capitation fee for admission, the government wants to double the proposed penalty to Rs. 1 crore. The Union Cabinet has approved amendments to the Prohibition of Unfair Practices in Technical Educational Institutions, Medical Educational Institutions and Universities Bill, 2010, as per the recommendations made by the Parliament Standing Committee on Human Resource Development earlier this year. To start with, the name of the Bill has been changed to Higher Educational Institutions Bill, 2011. The object is to curtail the element of profiteering in some institutions, which are at present beyond the scope of any such regulation, said a statement from the Human Resource Development Ministry. It expressed the hope that the Bill would protect students from harassment and extortion. The Bill, first introduced in the Lok Sabha in March 2010, originally included penal provisions of Rs. 50 lakh. Capitation fee refers to the collection of payment by educational bodies not advertised in the prospectus of the institution, usually in exchange for admission to the institution. For example donations. Another feature that gives the Bill more teeth is a grievance redress mechanism to safeguard students from unfair practices. To ensure better quality teaching, educational institutions have been explicitly prohibited from hiring unqualified teachers. They will have to be careful what they advertise in their glossy prospectuses, as any failure to live up to their promises will also be considered an offence under the new version of the Bill. Given that the education industry seems to be generating newer ways of hoodwinking students with every new class, the amended Bill has a provision to include any new type of unfair practice that emerges even after the law has been passed, apart from the specific instances named in the Bill.

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New Nuclear Liability Rules Give Some Relief to Nuclear Suppliers

The government has finalized rules for the implementation of the countrys new nuclear liability that aim to meet the concern of American nuclear suppliers wary of being exposed to unlimited liability in the event of a Fukushima-type accident involving any of their reactors. American officials had opposed two provisions of the Indian Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act that stemmed from the legislatures refusal to indemnify foreign suppliers

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from accidents caused by faulty equipment. Section 46, which allows ordinary citizens to file tort claims for damages, is seen by the U.S. nuclear industry as exposing its companies to unlimited liability in the event of an accident. The new rules do not affect this Section, thus leaving the primary American complaint unaddressed. Washingtons second objection is to Section 17(b), which grants Indian operators a right of recourse against nuclear suppliers if an accident results from the supply of equipment or material with patent or latent defects or substandard services. The new rules do not directly affect 17(b) but open a door for its dilution by giving suppliers the option to piggy-back on 17(a) which penalises a supplier if he had accepted liability in a written contract and thereby limit their exposure in the event of faulty equipment to accidents which occur in the first five years of the reactors operation. The rules do this by specifying that the provision for the right of recourse under 17(a) shall be for the duration of initial licence issued under the Atomic Energy (Radiation protection) Rules of 2004, or the product liability period, whichever is longer. The 2004 rules state in Section 9 that every licence runs for a period of five

Bill Giving ST Status to New Communities of Manipur Introduced in Lok Sabha

A Bill seeking to give Scheduled Tribe status to Inpui, Rongmei, Liangmai, Zeme, Thangal and Mate communities of Manipur and substitute Galong with Galo - the right name of the tribe - in the list of Arunachal Pradesh has been introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Bill to amend the original the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950 was introduced by the Minister of Tribal Affairs V. Kishore Chandra Deo. At present there are 33 communities appearing in the list of the Schedule Tribe in Manipur and the amendment will meet a long standing demand for considering grant of ST status to these communities. In the Arunachal Pradesh list, Galong community was mentioned. The State government has been recommending for long that the name Galo be substituted in place of Galong. Another bill to bifurcate the joint cadre of IAS, IPS and Forest Service for the states of Tripura and Manipur was also introduced in the Lok Sabha. The North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Amendment Bill, 2011, was introduced to amend the original Act of 1971. One the new law comes into force, Tripura and Manipur will have a separate cadre of the IAS, a separate cadre of IPS and a separate cadre of Indian Forest Service. Presently there is a joint cadre of these services for the two States.

STATE NEWS U.P. House Votes for Spliting of the State

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati moved a resolution in the Legislative Assembly for splitting the State into Purvanchal, Bundelkhand, Avadh Pradesh and Pashchim Pradesh and it was passed by voice vote amid opposition from members of Samajwadi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party. However, the resolution was supported by the Rashtriya Lok Dal.

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EC Declares 53 UP Seats as Expenditure Sensitive

The Election Commission has declared 53 assembly seats as expenditure sensitive and prone to high illegal funding and corrupt practices in poll bound Uttar Pradesh. Some of the seats identified as expenditure sensitive include Lucknow, Mathura, Agra, Gautam Budh Nagar, Mainpuri, Bareilly, Rai Bareilly, Chitrakoot, Gonda, Azamgarh and Gazipur. According to EC rules, an expenditure sensitive constituency is identified on the basis of past history, profile of the constituency and the state Chief Election Commissioners office identifies such seats which are prone to high expenditure and corrupt practices.

years and the 2011 rules define product liability period as the period for which a supplier accepts liability for an accident caused by defective equipment in a contract. By this fix, Indian officials will tell the U.S. that an American vendor can limit its exposure for an accident to five years and Rs. 1,500 crore. However, since the Fukushima-Daiichi accident in Japan happened some three decades after the initial reactor supply, critics in India are likely to ask whether the five year limit specified by the rules is prudent or even legal, given that the Liability Act itself specifies no such term limits.

Bihar Lokayukta Bill Proposes CM under its Ambit

The Bihar Lokayukta Bill, 2011, has proposed constitution of a three-member Lokayukta with jurisdiction to probe corruption charges against public servants from the chief minister down to employees of the lowest rung of the administration. Public

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servants including the chief minister, ministers, members of the state legislature, officials, employees, companies, NGOs and chairpersons of the various boards and corporations in the state would be within the purview of the Lokayukta, according to the draft bill circulated among the state legislature members and the media in Patna. It would require permission of the full bench of Lokayukta to initiate investigation or prosecution against the chief minister, minister and members of the state legislature under sections 16 of the Lokayukta Act while it may inquire into act or conduct of others if such a person is associated with allegation under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. As regards its powers, the Lokayukta can, on receipt of complaint or suo moto, initiate action against the public servant accused of corruption. However, in case of complaint it has to be signed by the complainant or shall bear the thumb mark of the complainant in the event of such a person being illiterate. It should be duly attested by a literate person disclosing details like name and full address of the attesting persons. The proposed Lokayukta will have an investigation wing of its own but before its team is constituted the state government will make available investigation officers and other staff as may be required. However, an investigation into corruption charge against a public servant can be made by an investigating officer not below the rank of the deputy superintendent of police or by any other officer of equivalent rank.

Centre had appointed the former Intelligence Bureau Chief, P.C. Haldar, as its interlocutor for peace negotiation with the Ranjan Daimary faction of the National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB). Mr. Haldar is the Centres interlocutor for holding peace negotiation with other insurgent outfits including ULFA, NDFB (Progressive) and both the factions of Dima Halam Daogah.

Institute for IT, Advanced Sciences to come up in Assam

An Indian Institute of Information Technology and Advanced Sciences (IIITAS), on the lines of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), will be set up by the Government of India and the Assam government in the public-private partnership mode, with the industry partners being the Tata group, Oil India Limited and the Assam Electronics Development Corporation (AMTRON). S. Ramadurai, Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Council on Skills Development, will head the IIITAS. The proposed institute will be one of 20 new IIITs which the government of India plans to set up across the country. At present there are four IIITs in the country. The academic session of the institute was slated to begin in August 2012. The Centre will have a share of 57.5 per cent, while the Assam governments share will be 35 per cent and the rest 7.5 per cent share will be picked up by three industry partners.

20 a director and such other officers and employees in accordance

with the state governments existing reservation policy to assist the director. According to the draft bill, the prosecution director upon direction of the Lokayukta after due inquiry may file a complaint before a special court for prosecution of the public servants in relation to any offence punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 and Bihar Special Courts Act, 2009. In order to carry out speedy trial of the accused, the Lokayukta may recommend establishment of more special courts for the cases under the mentioned two Acts for consideration of the state government. The special courts shall ensure completion of each trial within a period of one year from the date of filing of the case. With regard to whistleblowers, it proposed that the persons identity would be kept confidential and full protection provided to protect him from any physical harm or administrative harassment, the draft added.

The Lokayukta will have a prosecution wing too headed by

Bokaro Steel Engaged in Preserving Endangered Birhor Tribe

In Jharkhand, Public Sector Company- The Bokaro Steel Limited, is engaged in preserving and nurturing the endangered Birhor tribe. The Chief Executive Officer of the company Mr. Sashi Sekhar Mohanty said that the apart from many tasks under Corporate Social Responsibilities, the company efforts in nurturing the endangered tribe has unique national perspective.

Museum for Promoting Kalka-Shimla Rail Link to be set up in Switzerland

A museum for promoting and preserving the Kalka-Shimla Rail link will soon be set up in Switzerland. The museum is being established after Indian Railways signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Swiss Mountain Railways in June last year for cooperation in the field of protection, conservation and management of heritage rail assets. Several aspects of the Kalka-Shimla rail link including photographs and video recording of the running train through tunnels on the hilly track will be exhibited at the museum. The museum is expected to be operational by next year. Kalka-Shimla Railway was inscribed as World Heritage Site in 2008 by the UNESCO.

Centre, Assam Ink Peace Pact with UPDS

Centre and Assam government has signed a peace accord with the militant outfit of the hill district Karbi Anglong United Peoples Democratic Solidarity (UPDS) in Delhi on November 25. The UPDS was formed in 1999 in a merger of the erstwhile Karbi Peoples Front (KPF) and Karbi National Volunteers (KNV). The UPDS entered into a ceasefire agreement with the government in 2002 and holding negotiations with the government since then.

Right to education
The State government of Tamil Nadu has finally notified the rules under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. With this, the State has taken an important milestone in ensuring education for all children between six and 14 years of

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age. Education activists and civil society were worried about the long delay in notifying the rules, and Tuesdays announcement was a cause for celebration as key provisions of the landmark legislation can now be implemented. After the draft rules of the State government were published, activists, non-government organizations and members of the civil society came forward with suggestions, some of which have been incorporated in the notification. These include giving more teeth to the School Management Committee and local bodies, defining children belonging to disadvantaged groups and weaker sections and providing clarity on school mapping, which is essential to identify neighbourhood schools where children can be admitted. There was some disappointment, however, that the rules do not specify the manner in which schools ought to select students from the disadvantaged groups and weaker sections in their neighbourhood, to the extent of 25 per cent of the strength of their Class I or pre-school, as required under Section 12 of the Act. At least 20 States have already notified their draft rules, including Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan and Delhi. The notification of the rules would mean that there would be more control over private schools, feel educationists.

The Bill has been rejected in its current form on the grounds of the projects high cost, as well as concerns regarding national security, privacy and duplication of the National Population Registers (NPR) activities. One major sticking point was reportedly the Aadhaar projects ambition to enrol every resident of the country, rather than every citizen. The Home Ministry has raised concerns that Aadhaars biometric data collection and verification does not meet security criteria. There has also been a turf clash with the Home Ministrys National Population Register which is also documenting photographs, fingerprints and iris scans of all residents. So far, the UIDAI, headed by the former Infosys chief, Nandan Nilekani, has issued about 6 crore Aadhaar numbers, and over 10 crore people have been enrolled into the system. The projects budget is Rs. 1,660 crore, of which over a third has already been spent. However, there is still no legal parliamentary backing for the project, a glitch that was sought to be retrospectively corrected by the NIAI Bill.

REPORTS/SURVEyS Lokpal Report tabled in Parliament

The Congress desire to give constitutional status to the institution of Lokpal which was initially described by Team Anna as a delaying tactic found reflection in the report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel and Law and Justice, which has been tabled in Parliament. Topping the issues most hotly debated in the committee was whether or not the Prime Minister should be brought within the ambit of the Bill: with a three-way split, the committee has left the final decision to the good sense of Parliament. On the contentious issue of Group C employees, the report has recommended that Group C and D be brought under the Central Vigilance Commissions jurisdiction, and proposed changes in the Central Vigilance Commission Act to ensure that it exercised similar powers in respect of the lower bureaucracy as the Lokpal would have for dealing with the Group A and B employees. The reports suggestion that the Central Bureau of Investigation be the main investigating arm, with the Lokpal supervising the process, has provoked several notes of dissent: the BJP, the three Congress MPs, the BJD, the SP and independent MP Ram Jethmalani have all said the report does not go far enough to make the CBI free of government control.

COMMITTEE/COMMISSIONS Parliamentary Panel Recommends Probe for BCCI, IPL

Parliaments Standing Committee on Finance has called on the government to investigate the Board of Control for Cricket in India and Indian Premier League franchisees, saying Income Tax authorities have failed to act against them for making overseas investments in violation of foreign exchange laws. The report says: It is quite evident that the Income Tax Department has been rather inconsistent in bringing the BCCI into the tax net. The inordinate delay and gross inaction in finalising assessment cannot but reinforce the committees desire seeking a thorough probe. The Standing Committee has also called for a review of tax exemptions granted to the International Cricket Council on revenues generated by the Cricket World Cup in March, which cost the exchequer Rs. 45 crore. Describing the tax exemption as unjustified and devoid of merit, the committee has called for a coherent and consistent policy for the future, whereby high-profile money-spinning events such as the IPL are not kept out of the tax net.

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Indias Human Rights Record Dismal: UN Report

Six months before Indias human rights gets reviewed at the United Nations, the Working Group on Human Rights (WGHR) in India has released a report painting a dismal picture of its rights record. The U.N. Human Rights Council examines the rights record of its members on a rotational basis every four years through a peer review process, the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). Reports by the civil society, U.N. agencies and the country under review are relied upon during the UPR. Indias review is due in May next year.

Parliamentary Committee Rejects National Identification Authority of India (NIAI) Bill

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance has rejected the National Identification Authority of India (NIAI) Bill, which was meant to give a legal backing to the Aadhaar project and its aim of using biometrics to create a unique identity for every resident of India. The Committee, headed by Yashwant Sinha (BJP), is likely to table its report in Parliament.

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The report presents a very bleak scenario of the actual state of human rights across India. The government has shown positive signs in dealing with the U.N. human rights system in the past year. We hope that this change extends to the UPR review in 2012 and beyond. Nothing but a radical shift in economic, security and social policy is needed to meet Indias national and international human rights commitments, said the former U.N. Special Reporter and WGHR convener, Miloon Kothari. The last four years have seen a marked increase in the deployment of security forces and draconian laws to deal with socio-economic uprisings and political dissent. Conflict is no longer confined to Kashmir and the northeast but also many parts of central India. In all these areas, human rights violations are overlooked and even condoned. The legal framework and practice have entrenched the culture of impunity. People are increasingly losing faith in systems of justice and governance, cautioned noted human rights lawyer Vrinda Grover.

Meanwhile, as the controversy continued to rage, Ramachandra Guha, Philippe Roman Professor in History and International Affairs at the London School of Economics and a former OUP author, criticized what he described as the Thatcherisation of publishing process at OUP with profit overriding academic considerations.

AN-32 Resumes Operation at Vijaynagar in Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen (retd.) J.J. Singh accompanied by Air Marshal S. Varthaman, Air Officer Commanding-inChief, Eastern Air Command, has inaugurated the renovated Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) of Vijaynagar, a completely air-maintained and strategically located human settlement in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh and located at the trijunction of India, Myanmar and China. With the inauguration of the ALG, the operation of the transport aircraft AN-32 of the Indian Air Force known as the workhorse of the IAFs transport fleet to this inaccessible settlement also resumed after a long gap.

MISCELLANEOUS OUP India to be flooded with orders for Ramayana Essay

Indian students at the Oxford University plan to flood Oxford University Press (OUP) with orders for The Collected Essays of A.K. Ramanujan, which contains the controversial essay 300 Ramayanas to test its claim that it has not stopped printing the volume following pressure from right-wing groups who had protested that it hurt Hindu sentiments. Nigel Portwood, chief executive of OUP UK, insists that the volume is still available though only in its short-run print programme because there was not a sufficient number of back orders to justify a normal reprint. Students, however, say they have been told by OUP offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai that the book is out of print and not available anywhere. On 9 October-2011, Delhi Universitys Academic Council decided to drop A.K. Ramanujans essay 300 Ramayanas from the Delhi University B.A. syllabus, largely due to pressure from right-wing organisations. The Council, which deals primarily with administrative affairs, saw fit to intervene in this case and dismiss the essay, despite recommendation to the contrary by the expert committee. The essay has been the subject of controversy since 2008, when these groups first objected to some of the findings presented by Ramanujan. Those against the essay are bothered by the examples cited from other Ramayanas. Ramanujan studies some of the myriad tellings of the essay throughout South and South East Asia. Many of these tellings vary from, or even contrast with, the Valmiki Ramayana most Indians are familiar with. For example, in a South Indian folk account of the Ramayana, it is Ravana who becomes pregnant with Sita and gives birth to her when he sneezes. Ramanujan says that in Kannada, the word sita means he sneezed, and thus Sitas name is given its Kannada etymology in this version.

Department of Biotech can be kept out of Regulator: Government

In a bid to break the logjam, the government has offered to keep the Department of Biotechnology out of the governing board of the proposed biotech regulator. The Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI) Bill had been listed for introduction in the Lok Sabha twice and deferred following objections from members who argue that promoter of biotechnology cannot be its regulator. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has no interest in BRAI. The BRAI is proposed to be an independent entity to regulate research, transport, import, manufacture and use of organisms and products of modern biotechnology. The Bill seeks to set up a 17-member Inter-Ministerial Governing Board with Secretary of Department of Science and Technology as its chairman for effective discharge of functions and performance of BRAI. DST secretary was chosen to head the BRAI governing board as he has no conflict of interest, but this arrangement could be changed depending on the wish of the Parliament.

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Health Ministry to Manage Bhopal Memorial Hospital

The Atomic Energy Commission is disinclined to run the Bhopal Memorial Hospital saying it was not the Department of Atomic Energys mandate to manage such large institutions. Following the AECs opinion, the management of the Bhopal Memorial Hospital and Research Centre (BMHRC), set up to treat the victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy, will now be transferred to the Health Ministry. Last year, the Union Cabinet had asked the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to take over the day-to-day administration of the BMHRC. The two departments had been asked to manage the hospital till an appropriate structure in the nature of an autonomous society was put in place.

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International Bulletin... AfghANIStAN-PoSt 2014

Osama is dead but the Taliban is still active. Terrorist activity from across the Durand Line has not ceased. And President Karzai diktat doesnt run beyond Kabul. In this back drop, all the stake holders including Karzai government are worried about the future of Afghanistan in the wake of withdrawal of American led NATO troops. Americans are looking forward to base their long term relationship with Afghan government through Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA). The essential purpose of the SPA is to put in place a credible, long-term American political commitment to the post-Taliban Afghanistan. This is supposed to include formal arrangement for a residual American military presence in Afghanistan after the US forces end their combat role in 2014. The US armed forces that stay on in Afghanistan are expected to focus on training and other missions to strengthen the Afghan National army. The SPA is also designed to facilitate the operation of US armed forces from a handful of military bases in Afghanistan. These military facilities would also provide the much needed infrastructure to attack sanctuaries of Taliban and its allies trying to destabilize Afghanistan. But the idea of long term residual military presence is being contested by both Kabul and Washington. The neighboring countries specially Russia, China, Iran and Pakistan are worried about long term presence of American military in Afghanistan. The popular sentiment in Afghanistan is also turning against long term American presence, thanks to the huge civilian casualties by drone attacks. The anti American sentiments was visible in the meeting of loya jirga, or the grand assembly of tribal leaders, where Karzai positioned himself as a nationalist, seeking honour and dignity in an equitable political relationship with the United States. He also declared that western powers should not interfere in their internal affairs. Even though Karzai desperately need US help to beat back resurging Taliban, the Haqqani network and other insurgent groups operations from sanctuaries across the Durand Line, he doesnt want to provoke its neighbor to whom US base in Afghanistan is unacceptable. With the US Pakistan relations going sour after NATO strike which killed 24 Pakistani soldiers and Pakistans inaction towards insurgent groups operating from its soil has dimmed the prospects of immediate peace in Afghanistan. Pakistans denial to send high level delegate to the Bonn conference on reconstruction of Afghanistan has further lowered the prospects of Afghan stability. an enduring Taliban-led insurgency and possible financial collapse. Hillary Cilinton said that world has much to lose if the country again becomes a source of terrorism and instability. The Bonn conferences final declaration outlines a series of firm mutual commitments for the decade following the troop withdrawal. Afghanistan committed in the document to do to its homework in terms of reform, fighting corruption, promoting good governance and strengthening democracy. The international community, in return, pledged to direct financial support toward Afghanistans economic development and security-related costs, conveying the message that Kabul can count on its partners beyond 2014.

Indias Stand at Bonn Conference

At the Bonn conference External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, underlined New Delhis enduring commitment to the rebuilding of the country for which it has already pledged $2 billion. Warning against the dangers of abandoning Afghanistan, India exhorted the international community to stay engaged in the long run to eliminate sanctuaries of terror and pitched for a Marshall Plan1-like initiative to help rebuild the violence-torn country. With the aim to firm up the road map for Afghanistan beyond 2014, Mr. Krishna stressed that the international involvment is desired as the root causes of intervention the dangers of terrorism and radicalism remain as potent as ever. Mr. Krishna further added Afghanistan today faces at least four deficits: security deficit, governance deficit, development deficit, and an investment deficit. To address these deficits, Afghanistan needs time, development assistance, preferential access to world markets,

Bonn Conference
The Bonn conference was focused on the transfer of security responsibilities from international forces to Afghan security forces during the next three years, long-term prospects for international aid and a possible political settlement with the Taliban. About 100 countries and international organisations were represented among the 1,000 conference delegates, including some 60 foreign ministers. The attendees were hoping to agree on a set of mutual binding commitments under which Afghanistan would promise reforms and work toward goals such as good governance, with donors and international organizations pledging long-term assistance in return to ensure the countrys viability beyond 2014. The United States and other nations vowed to keep supporting Afghanistan after most foreign forces leave the country in 2014, as the nation faces

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1. The Marshall Plan (officially the European Recovery Program) was a large-scale American program to aid Europe where the United States gave monetary support to help rebuild European economies after the end of World War II in order to combat the spread of Soviet communism.

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fact-file
On 5 December, 2011, an International Conference on Afghanistan was held at the Hotel Petersberg in Bonn, Germany. The conference was hosted by Germany and chaired by Afghanistan. At the NATO Summit in Lisbon in November 2010, Afghanistans President Hamid Karzai had asked Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel to host a follow-up conference ten years after the 2001 Bonn Conference. In order to prepare the second Bonn Conference, the Afghan Government worked in collaboration with the International Contact Group on Afghanistan, which consists of the Special Representatives on Afghanistan of 50 states. The Contact Group is headed by the German Special Representative Michael Steiner. After the ousting of the Taliban in 2001, repeatedly international conferences on the future of Afghanistan were held at several places. the major conferences are: 1. Bonn 2001 5. Paris 2008 9. Bonn 2011 Bonn Agreement: In December 2001, a number of prominent Afghans met under the United Nations auspices in Germany to decide on a plan for governing the country. As a result, the Afghan Interim Administration (AIA) - made up of 30 members, headed by a chairman - was inaugurated on December 22, 2001, with a six-month mandate to be followed by a two-year Afghan Transitional Administration (ATA), after which elections were to be held. Some provisions in the agreement have expired, due to the creation of the constitution. Still, the agreement paved the way for the creation of a democratic Afghanistan. foreign investment and a clear end-state strategy to make sure that it does not once again plunge into lawlessness, civil war, and externally sponsored extremism and terrorism,. establishment is dragging its feet in the war against insurgent groups, including the Haqqani network which is operating from its soil. In the past Islamabad had been sympathetic towards Taliban and is often accused by the western alliance of not doing much to stop the insurgency. peace with the insurgents. 2. Berlin 2004 6. Moscow 2009 3. London 2006 7. The Hague 2009 4. Rome 2007 8. London 2010

Conclusion
Diplomacy can succeed only when the divergence of interests between different parties to a conflict is bridgeable, and there is room for finding win-win solution for all. But in Afganistan we see a fundamental incompatibility of the goals of the international community with those of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan wants a weak state in Afghanistan that it can control. The Pakistans armys instruments for influence in Afghanistan the Taliban and the Haqqani network espouse a radical and intolerant variant of Islam and seek to spread their influence through terror. Thus the contradiction between Rawalpindi and the international community can be resolved only by one side making significant concession. For the US this means either leaving Afghanistan at the mercy of Pakistan or to pressurise Pakistan economically to change the startegic calculus.

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Pakistan Absence at Bonn

Pakistan decided to boycott the conference in the wake of NATO attack on its border post in which 24 of it troops died. Pakistan is a central player in regional efforts to improve trade and strengthen Afghanistans weak economy. But its boycott casted a pall over the session, as it pointed out the nations influence in Afghanistan and its ability to play the spoiler. Pakistan is seen as instrumental to end the Taliban-led insurgency in Afghanistan because of its links to militant groups and its unwillingness, from the U.S. and NATO perspective, to drive insurgents from safe havens on its soil where they regroup and rearm. In the long term Pakistan doesnt want to lose its strategic depth in Afghanistan and is opposed to deep involvment of other nations particularly India. This is one of the reasons why Pakistani

Absence of taliban at the Bonn

Absence of Taliban along with Pakistan raised doubts about the progress towards peace that conference was supposed to make. Boycott of conference by the Taliban dimmed the prospects of postive result from the conference. The U.S. had once hoped to use the Bonn gathering to announce news about the prospects of peace talks with the Taliban, making it a showcase for political reconciliation, but Afghan and U.S. outreach efforts did not reap any results as no prominent Taliban representatives were attending the conference. The reconciliation efforts suffered a major setback after the September assassination of former Afghan President Burhanuddin Rabbani, who was leading the Afghan governments effort to broker

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YEAR of DISAStERS
Though United Nations had declared 2011 as the International Year of Forests and the International Year of Chemistry, it wont be an exaggeration to state that 2011 has been the International year of natural disasters as well. There wasnt a single month when the disasters did not create havoc around the world. The United States geological Survey estimated that the energy released by this quake was 600 times more powerful than the Hiroshima Bomb. The Van earthquake was another destructive earthquake, magnitude 7.1 Mw1 that struck eastern Turkey near the city of Van on 23 October 2011. According to the government agencies, the earthquake killed 604 and more than 4,152 were injured. Another earthquake with magnitude Mw 5.7 hit near Van on 9 November 2011 causing 40 deaths and left hundreds injured.

floods
Earthquakes werent the only natural disaster to wreak destruction around the world. Next in the queue were floods that devastated almost every continent. The first country to be badly affected by floods was Australia. The Brisbane and the Bremer rivers overflowed their banks in the Queensland State. The flash floods that slammed into Brisbane and other heavily populated regions brought a vast number of cumulative death tolls.

Earthquakes
Two earthquakes rocked the continent of South America within the first two days of January. On January 1, an earthquake of magnitude 7.0 on the Richter scale struck the Santiago del Estero province of Argentina. On the next day a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit the Araucania region, Chile with its epicenter at Putre on its border with Peru. In January itself, an earthquake was experienced near Dalbandin in the southwestern Pakistan. Its magnitude on the Richter scale was measured to be 7.2. In February, Christchurch in New Zealand was struck by a massive earthquake. The quake toppled churches and other tall buildings and claimed hundreds of lives. In addition, the quake also shook a massive chunk of ice loose from the countrys biggest glacier. But the biggest blow from this natural disaster came on 11 March 2011 when a 9.0- magnitude undersea mega thrust earthquake occurred in the western Pacific Ocean at a relatively shallow depth of 32 km with its epicenter approximately 72 km east of the Oshika Peninsula of Tohoku, Japan. The earthquake triggered extremely destructive tsunami waves of up to 10 metres that struck Japan minutes after the earthquake. This resulted in an officially declared death of 7000 people. Estimates of the Tohoku earthquakes magnitude make it the most powerful known earthquake to hit Japan.

The next in the row were floods in Balochistan province of Pakistan. The havoc of the floods started from the last Some of the other earthquakes week of February and continued well into of 2011 include: the second week of March. As per United Luzon (Luzon Island is in the northern Nations High Commission for Refugees part of the Philippines) earthquake in (UNHCR), 166, 000 flood victims are still homeless. March, A 6.8 magnitude earthquake in the In Africa, major victim of floods was Namibia in the late March. Though United Shan State of Myanmar, Nations Office for the Coordination of Another earthquake of magnitude 7.1 Human Affairs (OCHA) estimated the in Honshu island of Japan in April, extent of the floods from Angola and A 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Mozambique to South Africa, the worstKermadec islands in the Pacific in affected country was Namibia where July, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake at more than 10,000 people were forced to Port Villa in Vanuatu in August. evacuate. An earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Colombia in South American continent Richter scale shook the border area was the next to be victimized by floods of Sichuan and Gansu provinces in in late April. The situation even till late western China in November. September was not under control and A strong earthquake hit Indonesias around 100, 000 people were rendered eastern province of Papua in mid homeless. The floods were caused by the November. Indonesia is located on overflow of Magdalena and Cauca rivers. the Pacific Ring of Fire, an arc of The situation was so poor that a national volcanoes and fault lines encircling emergency had to be issued. Major floods occurred during the 2011 monsoon season in Thailand. Provinces Earthquake of magnitude-7.3 struck located in the Chao Phraya and Mekong off the coast of the South Pacific River basin, including Bangkok and island nation of Papua New Guinea in surrounding neighborhoods were most December. severely affected directly or indirectly by inundation. Flooding also affected most the Pacific Basin

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1. The moment magnitude scale (abbreviated as MMS; denoted as MW) is used by seismologists to measure the size of earthquakes in terms of the energy released. The magnitude is based on the seismic moment of the earthquake, which is equal to the rigidity of the Earth multiplied by the average amount of slip on the fault and the size of the area that slipped. The scale was developed in the 1970s to succeed the 1930s-era Richter magnitude scale (ML).

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provinces in Thailands south. Flooding began around July 2011, and continued into December 2011. Over 12.8 million people were affected with more than 500 deaths, and the World Bank estimated damages reached 45 billion USD as of December, 2011. The World Banks estimate for this disaster means that it ranks as the worlds fourth costliest disaster surpassed only by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, 1995 Kobe earthquake and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Chile erupted after lying dormant for more than 50 years. The government evacuated several thousand residents as Puyehue threw ash more than 10 km into the sky, pushing the plume toward neighboring Argentina.

Cyclones
One major form of natural disaster which are quite periodic in nature are cyclones. In 2011, different countries were hit by different kinds of cyclones.

southeastern China after dumping more than 20 inches, or 0.5 meter, of rain in southern Taiwan, where wide swaths of agricultural land were flooded and some 8,000 people evacuated. The storm skirted Taiwans southwest, remaining over the island for only a few hours. Its intensity had already diminished after pummeling the Philippines, where at least 16 people died and eight were missing.

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Typhoon Nalgae slammed ashore northern Philippines south of northeastern Palanan Cyclone WILMA was a tropical cyclone Bay in Isabela province adding misery The flooding inundated about six million which affected New Zealand, Tonga and to thousands of people. A week before, hectares of land, over 300,000 hectares American Samoa in January 2011 with Typhoon Nesat had stroked Philippines of which is farmland, in 58 provinces, maximum damage occurring in New capital Manila which killed at least 50 from Chiang Mai in the North to parts Zealand due to accompanying torrential people. of the capital city of Bangkok near the rains and floods caused thereby. The most recent in this category was mouth of the Chao Phraya. It has been Cyclone VANIA was another tropical Hurricane Rina which was the eighteenth described as the worst flooding yet in cyclone that hit New Zealand. But tropical cyclone, seventeenth named terms of the amount of water and people major destruction was brought about in storm, and seventh hurricane of the 2011 affected. Seven major industrial estates Fiji where heavy rains associated with Atlantic hurricane season. Rina developed were inundated by as much 3 meters. cyclone brought significant flooding to from a low-pressure area in the western Chinese southern parts were also affected many islands. Both, Wilma and Vania Caribbean Sea on October 23 and struck Cancun (Mexico) in the last week of by the floods. As the region is heavily occurred in January. and densely populated, a total of almost October. In February, a severe tropical cyclone 36 million people have been affected. YASI hit northern Queensland, Australia. Apart from the above mentioned natural The most recent in the floods list are Yasi originated from a tropical low near disasters, Landslides (in Jammu and the mammoth floods in December which Fiji. The cyclonic storm caused $800 Kashmir and Uttarakhand), Mud slides (in Brazil), Droughts in Somalia and China unleashed in southern Philippines. These million in losses. also had a profound effect on the very floods were caused due to Tropical storm Another powerful cyclonic activity was existence of mankind. Washi which left 440 people dead and hurricane IRENE in August 2011 which nearly 200 missing. About 20 major affected the Caribbean, the United The devastation wrought by the storms strike the Philippines annually, States East Coast and the Atlantic coast earthquake in Japan, along with other with most hitting Luzon, the largest and of Canada. Irene caused widespread disasters, made 2011 the costliest year most populous island in the Southeast destruction due to flooding; monetary ever recorded in terms of damages caused Asian archipelago. losses in the Caribbean were estimated by nature. It is very rare for such an extreme accumulation of natural hazard to be as high as US$3.1 billion. Volcanic eruptions events to be encountered in a single year. Another major disaster of the year came After Irene, storm Lee lashed southern Natural disasters diminished humanity by in the form of volcanic eruptions. The first Louisianas coast in USA. The National 19,380 lives in the first six months of eruption in this regard was of Grimsvotn Hurricane Center said Lees center was 2011, whereas 230,300 perished in 2010 volcano in Iceland. The volcano erupted about 200 km west-southwest of New (largely due to the Haitian earthquake with a huge explosion that sent a plume Orleans, with maximum sustained winds in January of 2010 which accounted of ash 20 km into the sky. At the time, of 72 kph. for nearly 225,000 deaths). The German the volcano was blasting roughly 100 Another disaster in tropical cyclone reinsurance firm, Munich Re, counted times more material per second into the category of natural disasters was typhoon $265 billion in damages for just the first atmosphere than was released from the TALAS which was a large but weak six months of 2011. The previous record Eyjafjallajkull volcano in April, 2010. tropical cyclone that caused many deaths holder was 2005 with $220 billion in The Grimsvtn eruption is believed to and severe damage in Japan. Since the damages, much of them resulting from be the most powerful in Iceland in more storm was moving unusually slow, it the Hurricane Katrina. Natural disaster led to severe damages. Heavy rains and damages for 2011 are five times higher than 50 years. Another volcanic eruption took place in strong winds triggered flash floods and than the past 10 years average, and double than 2010s total of $130 billion. Chile where a volcano in the Puyehue- landslides turning towns into lakes. Nanmadol headed to Cordon Caulle chain of south-central Typhoon

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OccuPy MOvEMENt: We are the ones weve been waiting for

Three years back Mr. Obama called for the audacity of hope and promised that We are the ones weve been waiting for which inspired the voters and led to an organic movement but after three years of disillusionment, a more organic movement has taken root in the United States. The Occupy Wall Street protests which began innocuously in September 2011 are now claiming public space and public attention. They reached new heights of spectacle against the Wests stuttering economic systems. The American protesters belonging to young people, students, urban middle classes, union members, the working poor, the underemployed, and the unemployed, not hitched to the ascendance of one man are denouncing the growth of stark inequality and the erosion of social mobility in America. They decry what they see as the collusion of the state with corporate and financial interests and are tapping into the widely-shared belief that the bankers, speculators, and traders responsible for the economic recession have escaped it unscathed while leaving behind a vast hinterland of despair and struggle. At its simplest, the Occupy Wall Street movement hopes to change American discourse on economic policy. incomes between 1979 and 2008 in the U.S. grew by over $10,000, but all that growth went to the richest 10 per cent of the country, while the incomes of the remaining 90 per cent effectively declined. It is perhaps fitting that the identity of this movement has coalesced around a number. Calling themselves the 99%, the protesters assail a hypothetical 1%, the rich elite that holds a country and its government in thrall. In 2007 the richest 1% of the American population owned 34.6% of the countrys total wealth, and the next 19% owned 50.5%. Thus, the top 20% of Americans owned 85% of the countrys wealth and the bottom 80% of the population owned 15%, an example of the Pareto principle1. The Great Recession has only led to further increase in this gap, thus inferring that most of the economic brunt has been faced by the bottom 80% of the population. This is in stark contrast with surveys of US populations that indicate an ideal distribution that is much more equal, and a widespread ignorance of the true income wealth inequality. flood lower Manhattan, set up tents, kitchens, peaceful barricades and Occupy Wall Street. They promoted the protest with a poster featuring a dancer atop Wall Streets iconic Charging Bull. The first protest was held at Zuccotti Park in New York City on September 17, 2011. The protests were preceded by a similar Occupy Dataran movement in Kuala Lumpur in July, seven weeks before Occupy Wall Street. By October 9, Occupy protests had taken place or were ongoing in over 95 cities across 82 countries, and over 600 communities in the United States. As of December 10 the Meet up page Occupy Together listed 2,720 Occupy communities worldwide.

Modus operandi of the movement

Activists have used web technologies and social media like IRC, Facebook, Twitter, and Meetup to coordinate the events. Indymedia have been helping the movement with communications, saying there have been conference calls on Skype with participants from up to 80 locations. Interactive live streams of events by independent journalists have been used to augment Mainstream media coverage. The progressive provider May First/People Link offered cost-free memberships for dozens of groups, including in Iran and Germany, to host websites, emails, and email lists securely. Indeed, the movement has gone further to create a diverse, multi-media culture of art production and distribution, which is being archived and gathered by institutions such as the National Museum of American History and New York Historical Society. The purpose of much of the art produced is to visually impact the mainstream through imagery to create solidarity and unity among the 99%. In December, Occupy Our Homes embarked on a movement to assist home owners who have lost their homes or

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the movement and its ramifications at various places

On May 30, 2011, a leader in the Spanish Indignants movement, inspired by the Arab Spring, made a call for a worldwide protest on October 15. In mid-2011, the Canadian-based group Adbusters Media Foundation, best known for its advertisement-free anti-consumerist magazine Adbusters, proposed a peaceful occupation of Wall Street to protest Corporate influence on democracy to address a growing disparity in wealth, and the absence of legal repercussions behind the recent global financial crisis. The protest received additional attention when the internet group Anonymous encouraged its followers to take part in the protests, calling protesters to

the simmering discontent

The anger can be traced to the hardships that descended on many Americans following the 2008 economic collapse. The ranks of the unemployed have swollen; jobs are harder to come by for both the under- and over-educated; students are graduating with unpayable debts; once free-flowing credit has dried up; prudent savers have seen their pensions vanish into thin air, government austerity measures threaten public sector jobs. Statistics shows how inequality in America has spiralled after three decades of intensifying deregulation. Average

1. The Pareto principle (also known as the 8020 rule, the law of the vital few, and the principle of factor sparsity) states that, for many events, roughly 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes. Business-management consultant Joseph M. Juran suggested the principle and named it after Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto, who observed in 1906 that 80% of the land in Italy was owned by 20% of the population.

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are scheduled to lose their homes to foreclosure due to what they call the illegal practices used by banks that took advantage of consumers. The group plans to occupy foreclosed homes, disrupt bank auctions, and block evictions.

Structural organisation of the movement

The movement has been described as having an overriding commitment to Participatory democracy. Important decisions are often taken at General assemblies. Decisions are made using the consensus model of direct democracy, waving hands in various simple signals and operating with discussion facilitators rather than leaders. In New York, Occupy Wall Street uses what is called a progressive stack, in which people from marginalized groups are sometimes allowed to speak before people from dominant groups, with facilitators, or stack-keepers, urging speakers to step forward, or step back based on which group they belong to, meaning that women and minorities get to go to the front of the line, while white males must often wait for a turn to speak.

group had been trying to rally it around a single, clear demand for a Robin Hood tax1, with a global march in support of the tax planned for October 29. The New York magazine stated that the claim were specific: tighten banking-industry regulations, ban high-frequency trading, arrest all financial fraudsters responsible for the 2008 crash, and form a Presidential commission to investigate corruption in politics. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, protesters want more and better jobs, more equal distribution of income, bank reform, and a reduction of the influence of Corporations on politics. In late November, the London contingent of the Occupy movement released their first statement on Corporations, where they called for measures to end Tax evasion by wealthy firms. The reason for the delay in articulating a clear demand was given as the time it takes to reach a consensus with the sometimes slow processes of participatory democracy. Efforts are still underway to reach consensus with other occupy groups around the world for a global statement.

President Hugo Chvez condemned the horrible repression of the activists and expressed solidarity with the movement. In media world British magazine Progress published an article and criticised the Occupy protesters as representing an unpalatable smorgasbord of religious, political and cultural ideas. However The Korean Central News Agency of North Korea (the state press) has described the Occupy movement as being a protest against exploitation and oppression by capital, shaking all fabrics of society. Egyptian protesters from Tahrir Square have lent their support of the movement. In early December, business magnate Richard Branson said the movement is a good start, that they have been protesting for valid reasons and that if the business community takes some of their concerns on board they will have made a difference.

conclusion
The full range of impacts and social consequences or ramifications of this fledgling global movement may be impossible to gauge at this time, but socially it has impacted USA in a big way because the protests have helped to shift the national dialogue from the deficit to economic problems which many ordinary Americans have been facing for a long time, such as unemployment, the large amount of student and other personal debt that burdens middle class and working class Americans, and other major issues of social inequality, such as homelessness. The movement appears to have generated a national debate about income inequality. Labour unions have become bolder in the tactics they employ and have been using digital social media more effectively because of the Occupy movement. Politically, the increased public focus on the growing income gap between economic elites and the middle class has been achieved and the importance of the rights of ordinary workers brought about by the Occupy Movement has given a significant boost to the organized labours campaign against anti-labour laws and practices.

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International reactions
Canadas Finance Minister Jim Flaherty expressed sympathy with the protests and commented that he can understand some legitimate frustration arising out of that. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, described the protests as a warning for all those who are in charge of the processes of governance. Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown accepted that the protests were about fairness. The Edinburgh City Council set a worldwide precedent by voting in favour of the motion to support the aims and sentiments of Occupy Edinburgh and the Occupy Movement as a whole. Mr. Barack Obama spoke in support of the movement, though also asked protesters not to demonize finance workers. Local authorities in the United States have been collaborating to develop strategies to respond to the Occupy movement and its encampments, and political leaders in eighteen United States cities consulted on cracking down on the Occupy movement. Venezuelan

Demands of the discontended

During the early part of the movement, the sentiment which was aimed against financial institutions, corporations, the wealthy, and a supposedly complicit government had convinced many critics that the protesters lack a coherent agenda. In fairness, it was difficult to summarise the movement. The activists maintained a long, pious list of causes, from the reform of the financial system to stopping house foreclosures to ending U.S. involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. But while it frustrated the media and resisted an easy definition, the Occupy Wall Street protests have continued to hit a nerve in an uncertain and depressed nation. The recent developments in this movement are now opposing this belief of not having a specific goal. Initially, it was hard to discern a unified aim for the movement, though by late the

1. The Robin Hood tax commonly refers to a package of financial transaction taxes (FTT) , proposed by a campaigning group of civil society NGOs. Campaigners have suggested the tax could be implemented globally, regionally or unilaterally by individual nations. Conceptually similar to the Tobin tax, it would affect a wider range of asset classes including the purchase and sale of stocks, bonds, commodities, unit trusts, mutual funds, and derivatives such as futures and options.

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INTERNATIONAL NEwS...
Pakistani Taliban Declares Ceasefire as Part of Peace Talks
The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has announced a ceasefire, claiming the move was part of peace talks with the government. The ceasefire announcement came a few hours after the Army categorically denied reports of it being in negotiations with the TTP and its affiliate groups. The TTP has claimed that the ceasefire has been in place for the past month but security analysts opine that the unilateral declaration could be a result of recent military operations against terrorist hideouts in some of the tribal agencies bordering Afghanistan. Given how terrorist organizations have used ceasefire agreements in the past to consolidate their positions, there was considerable skepticism about this offer. Besides, since the TTP is an umbrella organization for a number of terror outfits, no one seemed certain as to whether the ceasefire was acceptable to all.

Afghan President Announces Second Troop Transition

Afghan President Hamid Karzai has named the provinces, cities and districts that will be handed over by NATO to Afghan control. This second wave of transition means that half of Afghanistan is due to be controlled by its own forces. The first stage of transition began in July, with seven areas handed over. They included four provincial capitals - Herat, Lashkar Gah, Mehterlam and Mazer-e-Sharif - as well as the provinces of Bamiyan, Panjshir and, most of Kabul. Mr Karzais latest announcement is part of a process that should see NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) combat leaving Afghanistan by the end of 2014. Among the provinces to be handed over are Balkh (in the north), Takhar (in north-east) and Nimroz. Among the cities named are Jalalabad, Ghazni and Maidan Shah. Marjah, Nawa and Nad Ali - all districts in Helmand province - are being handed over. Around 140,000 foreign troops currently remain in Afghanistan - nearly 100,000 of them from the US - battling the Taliban insurgency. After combat troops are withdrawn, the primary role of any foreign forces in the country will be to train and equip Afghan security forces.

Pak Tell US to Vacate Shamsi Airbase within 15 Days

Pakistan has asked the US to vacate the Shamsi airbase that has reportedly been used by American drones, within 15 days and closed NATO supply routes in response to a cross-border air strike by the coalition aircraft that killed 28 Pakistani soldiers. The Defence Committee of the Cabinet also decided that the government would revisit and undertake a complete review of all programmes, activities and cooperative arrangements with US/NATO/ISAF, including diplomatic, political, military and intelligence cooperation. Till recently, Pakistani supply routes were used to transport a majority of supplies for US and allied forces in Afghanistan. Following a wave of attacks on supply vehicles and strained relations with Pakistan, the US has stepped up the use of alternative routes in Central Asian countries.

Sri Lankas First Expressway Opens

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has opened Sri Lankas first expressway, a 160 kms stretch running between Colombo and a coastal town, which is being built at a whopping cost of USD 77 billion with international assistance. Rajapaksa opened the first phase of 126 kms between Colombo and the southern port town of Galle. The Asian Development Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funded the construction of the four lane expressway. The second phase of the project is to be completed by 2013.

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Pak-Afghan Relation Sours as NATO attacks Pak Soil

The helicopter attack on Pakistan Army border posts in Mohmand tribal agency has strained the already tense relations between Islamabad and Kabul that ran into rough weather in September following the assassination of Afghan High Peace Council chairman Burhanuddin Rabbani. Islamabad has protested to the Afghan government about the use of its soil by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) for attacking Pakistan even as reports from Afghanistan suggest that the helicopters were called in by ground troops in Eastern Kunar when they came under fire from the Pakistani side. Given that this attack comes in the wake of several crossborder incursions into Pakistan from Afghanistan through the summer despite heavy coalition force presence west of the Durand Line, Pakistan was up in arms and the anger was primarily directed against the U.S.

Vietnam Bids to Join SCO

Vietnam has indicated its desire to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in a fresh sign of the rapidly growing clout and appeal of the Eurasian security body. Hanoi has signaled its intention to seek the status of dialogue partner in the SCO, said Kirill Barsky, special envoy of the Russian President to the SCO. Vietnamese authorities conveyed their aspiration to Mr. Barsky during his recent trip to Hanoi. Earlier this year Turkey applied for a similar status. The SCO, set up 10 years ago, has six full members China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, four observer states India, Iran, Mongolia and Pakistan, and two dialogue partners Belarus and Sri Lanka. After the SCO lifted its moratorium on admission of new members last year, India, Pakistan and Iran have sought to upgrade their observer status to full membership. However, under the SCO rules Iran

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stands disqualified for now because it is under United Nations sanctions over its nuclear programme.

Russian warships in Syrian waters

The rift between Russia and the West over Syria and Iran has widened as Moscow sent warships to Syrian shores in a show of support for the regime of President Bashar al-Assad and slammed new United States sanctions against Iran as unacceptable. The news of Russian naval deployment came shortly after the U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George HW Bush anchored off Syria, along with additional naval vessels. The defence official in Moscow insisted that the Russian mission has no connection with the ongoing crisis in the region and was planned long ago. He said the warships will conduct drills in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean far from Syrian shores and will return to their Northern Fleet base in early February. However, the ships will call on the Russian naval base in the Syrian port of Tartus to replenish supplies of food and fuel. The Russian naval mission to Syria comes at a time of renewed tension in Russian-American relations. President Dmitry Medvedev has recently warned that Moscow would deploy new missiles and take other retaliatory steps if the U.S. goes ahead with its plans to build missile defence systems in Europe that could threaten the Russian nuclear deterrent. Russia has also announced plans to resume defence cooperation with Cuba after a break of 20 years. The Russian Trade and Industry Ministry is negotiating a contract to set up a munitions facility near Havana to produce cartridges for the Kalashnikov assault rifles. Defence experts said the deal signalled Cubas plans to modernise with Russias help the vast arsenals of weapons the Soviet Union supplied to the Freedom Island between 1961 and 1991, when defence cooperation between the two countries wound up. Also, Russia has dismissed new U.S. exterritorial sanctions against Iran as unacceptable and violating international law. The U.S. sanctions slapped on Iran seriously complicated efforts for constructive dialogue with Tehran said Russian Foreign Ministry.

Central Asian nations vast gas reserves. Turkmenistan has agreed to increase its planned supply of natural gas to China by 25 billion cubic metres. The two countries also signed a slew of deals to boost the gas supply, including loans for oil and gas equipment, after the visiting Turkmeni President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov held a 90-minute talk with Chinese President Hu Jintao. Turkmenistan, which has the worlds fourth largest gas reserves, already supplies China 40 billion cubic metres every year, with exports rising following the opening of a 1,833km pipeline in 2009. The two countries also agreed in a joint statement to properly implement the development of natural gas blocks along the Amu Darya river, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported. Both nations signed a deal in 2007 for the export of 30 billion cubic metres of natural gas annually for 30 years. The joint statement said both countries had signed 12 cooperation agreements, including one on loans from China to purchase oil and gas equipment. The statement said both countries had agreed to build a long-term and stable strategic energy partnership, as well as work together to ensure the safety and stability of the pipeline, which runs from Turkmenistan, through Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to Chinas far-western Xinjiang region. Turkmenistan is keen to boost its energy ties with China as part of efforts to diversify its energy export destinations beyond Russia.

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New Green Card Bill may Benefit Applicants from India, China
The United States House of Representatives has passed a bill eliminating country-specific caps on green card application numbers in a move that left most people wondering whether it was a real change in U.S. immigration policy or whether it was pure political posturing. It aims to move away from the current law, under which immigrants from an individual country who are in the U.S. on an employment visa such as the H1-B cannot apply for more than seven per cent of the 140,000 green cards issued annually by the State Department. For while H.R. 3012, the so-called Fairness for HighSkilled Immigrants Act, would allow vastly greater numbers of highly-skilled applicants to make permanent residency claims, there is not likely to be any change in the actual numbers of green cards granted. What this implies is that countries that were facing the highest demand-supply mismatch for green cards, among which India ranks first and China second, will see a benefit in terms of prospective green cards issuance, whereas the waiting time in the queue for smaller nations such as Iceland would jump significantly.

Mohammed Basindawa to Head Unity Govt. in Yemen

Yemens opposition parties have nominated the head of their coalition to lead the first government after veteran President Ali Abdullah Saleh agreed to quit in 90 days. Mohammed Basindawa, a former member of Mr. Salehs ruling party, was chosen to head a national unity government, the opposition Common Forum, told. Mr. Saleh signed the exit agreement in Riyadh after months of dodging domestic and international pressure to step down after 33 years in office.

Turkmenistan will Supply more Natural Gas to China

China has taken a major step towards securing access to the

US Senate Votes for Tough Sanctions against Iran

The US Senate has unanimously approved harsh new economic sanctions against Iran over its nuclear programme, targeting

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the countrys central bank. The measures, passed by 100 votes to nil, would ban foreign firms from doing business with the Iranian central bank. Under the new sanctions, foreign banks that do business with Irans central bank would be cut off from the US financial system. The Senates move came a day after the US Government said it is looking for new ways to impose fresh sanctions against Iran. It also comes in the immediate aftermath of the attack on the British Embassy in Tehran following which Britain has recalled all its diplomats from Iran and has asked all Iranian diplomats from London to leave the country. The US has been cautious about harsher sanctions, fearing such a move could disrupt the oil markets at a time of economic uncertainty for many Americans, and alienate potential allies. But, Senators said that the sanctions were necessary to contain Irans nuclear ambition. Washington suspects Tehran of using its civilian nuclear programme to develop an atomic bomb, although Iran says its program is solely to produce electricity.

by Russias ruling party to run for President in next Marchs election. The United Russia party convention unanimously voted to nominate Mr. Putin as its presidential candidate for the March 14 elections. President Dmitry Medvedev in September announced his decision not to seek a second term and step down in favour of his mentor and senior partner in the ruling tandem. Mr. Putin stepped down as President in 2008 after serving two four-year terms and promoted Mr. Medvedev to replace him. Speaking at the United Russia convention, Mr. Medvedev hinted at two more presidential terms for Mr. Putin, who is 59. This would mean 12 years at the Kremlin helm as the presidential term was extended from four to six years during Mr. Medvedevs presidency. Mr. Putin is expected to win the March presidential race against his long-time sparring partners, such the veteran leader of the Communist Party, Gennady Zyuganov, and the eccentric nationalist leader, Vladimir Zhirinovsky. In his first two presidential campaigns Mr. Putin won over 70 per cent of the votes.

Russia Fires Back on U.S. Missile Plan

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has announced a sweeping package of retaliatory measures if the U .S. goes ahead with its missile defence plans. The measures will range from targeting U.S. missile defence sites in Europe and deploying new longrange nuclear missiles capable of piercing U.S. defences to tearing up the Russian-U.S. START pact (for STrategic Arms Reduction Treaty) and walking out of the arms control and disarmament process. Mr. Medvedev outlined five immediate steps the Defence Ministry would take on his orders: Put on combat alert the newest early-warning radar in the Kaliningrad region; strengthen protection of strategic missile sites;

Egypts Civilian Cabinet Resigns After Protests

Egypts Cabinet has said that it had resigned, as clashes raged for the third day in Cairos Tahrir Square, pitting police and soldiers against protesters demanding democratic change. The cabinet of Prime Minister Essam Sharaf submitted its resignation to the ruling military council, a move that was widely expected given the governments perceived inefficiency and its almost complete subordination to the generals. Egypts ruling military council accepted the cabinets resignation.

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Islamist Party Takes Early Lead in Moroccos Parliamentary Election

Election results for the first 50 seats in Moroccos parliament announced by the state news agency suggested a moderate equip newly-built long-range ballistic missiles with advanced Islamist party is taking 40 per cent of the vote. With just a systems for overcoming U.S. missile defences; fraction of the results for the 395-seat Parliament reported, Develop low-cost and effective measures of disrupting the opposition Justice and Development Party looks to have dramatically increased its share. information and fire-control systems of the U.S. According to the new constitution, the party with the And, if the above measures prove inadequate, Russia will most seats gets first crack at forming a new government, so if deploy state-of-the-art strike systems in the west and south of the country and set up Iskander missiles in the the trend continues, the Islamists must find coalition partners Kaliningrad region capable of hitting the missile defence willing to work with them. installations in Europe. In recent years Moroccos Islamists have cultivated an image as honest outsiders battling corruption and seeking to Mr. Medvedev also warned that Russia may withdraw from the START treaty. The START signed last year is the most improve services, rather than focusing on moral issues such as tangible achievement of the Russian-American Reset, the two the womens headscarf. countries embarked upon two years ago. The latest clash may Morocco, a close U.S. ally and popular European tourist destination effectively put an end to the Reset. Russias envoy to NATO suffers from high unemployment and widespread poverty. Dmitry Rogozin said a point of no return in the Russian-U.S. Spain Votes for Mariano Rajoys Peoples Party standoff would be reached in May 2012, when NATO gives a final The Eurozone crisis has claimed its third government in a approval to its plans for missile defences in Europe. month, with Spanish voters giving the conservative Mariano Vladimir Putin Nominated to Run for President Rajoys Peoples Party a 16 percentage points triumph over Jos Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has been formally nominated Luis Rodriguez Zapateros Socialist Party. Under the proportional

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electoral system, the winners have an absolute majority, with 186 seats out of 350 in the lower chamber of parliament, and are also set for a large Senate majority. The Socialists, who had called the election six months early in the hope of a third four-year term, lost one third of their seats. Despite being led through the campaign by the highlyrespected Alredo Prez Rubalcaba, they finished with their worst showing since the first post-Franco elections held in 1977. The economy, which was the decisive election issue, is moving steadily towards the point where, like those of Greece and Portugal, it will need a bailout. Spanish borrowing on international markets now faces interest rates of 6.3 per cent on 10-year loans, in contrast to 1.3 per cent for Germany. Unemployment is at 23 per cent.

India was ranked 95th on the list - worse than China, but better than Pakistan thats ranked way below at 134th.

Syria violations Condemned by UN Human Rights Council

The UN Human Rights Council has strongly condemned the violence in Syria and is to appoint a special investigator on the crackdown on anti-government protesters. A council report on the violence is to be sent to the UN Secretary General. The UN estimates 4,000 people have been killed during a crackdown on anti-government protests. The UK ambassador said it was the toughest resolution ever passed by the Geneva-based council. Earlier, UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay called for urgent action to protect civilians in Syria. But Syrias ambassador in Geneva told the council a solution to his countrys problems could not be found by the international community. Any UN intervention would simply deepen the crisis, he warned. The resolution was approved at an emergency meeting of the council by 37 votes in favour to four against, with six abstentions. Those voting against included Russia and China, who have resisted moves for a UN Security Council resolution on Syria, for fear it could lead to a military intervention such as the one in Libya. The positions adopted in the document, which include the veiled hint of the possibility of foreign military intervention under the pretext of defending the Syrian people, are unacceptable to the Russian side, Russias foreign ministry said in a statement. The resolution demands the suspension of security forces suspected of violations and the release of prisoners of conscience. However, some human rights groups are disappointed the council did not make a clearer call for referring Syria to the International Criminal Court (ICC), as Ms Pillay had wanted. A report for the UN earlier this week said security forces had committed crimes against humanity in Syria.

world Bank Approves $ 100 million Loan to Sri Lanka for Education
The World Bank has approved a 100 million USD concessional credit to Sri Lanka to enhance access and quality of primary and secondary education. This will provide a foundation for the knowledge-based economic and social development of the country. The Sri Lankan Ministry of Education with the assistance will implement a project for Transforming the School Education System at the national level. World Bank Country Director for Sri Lanka Diarietou Gaye says about 4 million school children, around 215,000 school teachers, 15,000 principals and 3,500 education managers and administrators will directly benefit from the programme.

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New Zealand is the worlds Least Corrupt Nation

Australia is among the least corrupt countries in the Group of 20 industrialized nations, while New Zealand was ranked first, according to a new survey. Transparency International, a global body leading the fight against corruption, said its annual league tables showed that New Zealand stood at top of the global list overall as the least corrupt in the world, according to AAP report. Somalia and North Korea are the worst of all. Last year, Australias trans-Tasman neighbour was ranked joint first along with Denmark and Singapore, which now stand at second and fifth respectively. Australia remains in joint eighth position with Switzerland. TIs Corruption Perceptions Index scores 183 countries and territories from zero (highly corrupt) to 10 (very clean) based on data from 17 surveys that look at factors such as enforcement of anti-corruption laws, access to information and conflicts of interest. Two-thirds of ranked countries scored less than five. Transparency International is a global body leading the fight against corruption. New Zealand scored 9.5 while Australia achieved 8.8 this year. North Korea and Somalia both scored just one point and ranked at the end of the scale. China was ranked 75th in the world with a score of 3.6, while its number-two trading destination Japan was 14th with a score of 8.0.

Asia-Pacific Labour Market Update Report

About 500 people, including Ministers, representatives of workers and employers organisations, and academics from more than 46 countries in Asia, the Pacific and the Arab States attended the four-day deliberations of The 15th Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting (ARPM) of the International Labour Organisation (ILO). The main thrust of the meeting was how employment, economic and social progress can be safeguarded in the face of the uncertain global economic outlook, according to the ILO. Director-General of the ILO, Juan said that at present unemployment levels in Asia and the Pacific have yet to reach the pre-crisis low of 76.9 million in 2007. Nearly 60 per cent of the regions workers are in vulnerable employment. The crisis of youth employment demands urgent action. Young people make up around 20 per cent of the regions population but are half of the jobless. A report on the Asia-Pacific Labour Market Update produced for the ILOs 15th ARPM, says that the global outlook is

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increasingly uncertain. Asia will not be immune from turbulence and weak demand. While the regions economic performance remains positive in some countries impressively so there are signs of slowing growth, with economic and social vulnerabilities appearing in both industrialised and developing Asia. Stressing social protection for workers, the report admits that while a high level of coverage is ultimately desirable, it is not necessarily indicative of a households ability to pay. In this regard Thailand stands out. Not only does its scheme cover almost 95 per cent of the population but the share of total health expenses paid out-of-pocket by households is low, at less than 20 per cent. In contrast, in China, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Viet Nam, out-of-pocket payments account for 35 per cent to 55 per cent of total health expenditures. Women face wide gaps in both economic participation and earnings in the region. In Pakistan the difference was 33.7 percentage points in labour force participation and 45 per cent in wages, the highest for both indicators among the sample of countries. In Nepal, male-female inequality in wages is among the highest (40.5 per cent) but among the lowest when it comes to labour force participation (7.4 percentage points). The report said that moving to a low-carbon; sustainable development path opens up new opportunities for investment, business ventures and the creation of green jobs. In Bangladesh, environment-related jobs (both direct and indirect) already represent about 10 per cent of all employment opportunities, with sustainable transport (45 per cent) and climate adaptation activities (35 per cent) accounting for most of these new employment opportunities. The government is spending about $ 2 billion a year on sustainable development, which should create about 1.7 million new jobs. In China, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences projects that about 30 million new jobs will be created between 2005 and 2030 in forestry and the energy sector, based on current energy efficiency promotion policies, reduced emissions and the protection of the ecosystem. Unemployment among the youth is a serious concern. A lack of decent and productive jobs for young people is a drag on Asias economic potential, and may also threaten social stability, the report said.

religious camp. The Brotherhood leadership had stated publicly that Egypts interim military rulers need to vacate political space for the countrys elected representatives who are expected to hold their first parliamentary session in mid-march. However, analysts say unless the Islamists and the Liberals prolong their functional unity, the military elite habituated to power, and supported by the West, is unlikely to give up the core levers of power.

world Court Rules against Greece in Macedonia case

The world court has ruled that Greece was wrong to block Macedonias bid to join NATO in 2008 because of a longrunning dispute over the fledgling countrys use of the name Macedonia. In a 15-1 ruling, the court found that Greeces veto breached a 1995 deal under which Greece had agreed not to block Macedonias membership in international organizations if it used the name The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia while the matter was submitted to U.N. mediation. More than 15 years later, discussions over the name are still unresolved. Although the question of Macedonias name is sometimes seen as superficial by outsiders, it is a matter of deep concern for both sides. The young country has used the name in one form or another since shortly after World War II, when it was a province of Yugoslavia, but Greece sees use of the name as historically inaccurate at best and a potential threat to its territorial integrity at worst. This victory is largely symbolic since the court didnt order Greece to alter its stance in the future. Though colloquial use of calling the country Macedonia has grown, U.N. documents refer to it consistently as The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, while Greece refers to it by the acronym FYROM apparently to avoid even spelling out the word Macedonia in relation to the country. The country calls itself the Republic of Macedonia. There was little opposition from Athens to the Yugoslav territory using the name Macedonia from World War II until it declared independence in 1991. The country occupies much of the territory in the region that was known as Macedonia in the times of Alexander the Great in the 4th century B.C. But over the centuries the region has undergone such complete ethnic and cultural changes as to render use of the name nonsensical, Greece argues not to mention that Greece has its own province called Macedonia. Under the 1995 interim agreement, Greece dropped economic sanctions against Macedonia in exchange for the temporary compromise on the name and Macedonia stopped using an ancient Macedonian flag and amending articles of its constitution which could be seen as hinting at claims to Greek territory.

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Egypts Brotherhood for National Unity Government

Egypts Muslim Brotherhood, whose political arm put up a stunning performance during the first round of polling for the Lower House of Parliament, has reiterated its readiness to work together with its liberal rivals. Though final results of the first round of polling are yet to be declared, it is estimated through official media leaks that the FJP won 40 per cent of the votes. The Al Nour coalition is believed to have won 25 per cent of the vote, slightly ahead of the Egyptian Bloc, a combination of mainly liberal parties. In case it joins hands with the Al Nour, the Islamist bloc that will be formed will command a 65-per-cent super-majority a situation that would cause acute discomfort in the non-

Putins United Russia Party Suffers Setback

Prime Minister Vladimir Putins United Russia has suffered a setback in Russias parliamentary election, polling less than half of the votes and losing its overwhelming majority in the lower house. With 96 per cent of the ballots counted, United

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Russia received 49.54 per cent of the votes, down from more than 64 per cent four years ago. It is set to lose almost a quarter of seats in the 450-member State Duma, and will see its 315 seats reduced to 238 seats. This will deny the Kremlin the freedom to change the Constitution at will. Opposition parties posted significant gains; with Communists benefiting the most from what analysts said was a massive protest vote. The Communist Party grabbed over 19 per cent of the votes, up from 12 per cent last time. A Just Russia party came third with over 13 per cent and Vladimir Zhirinovskys ultranationalists fourth with 11, 6 per cent. The ruling party suffered even bigger losses in regional assemblies, failing to win an absolute majority of seats in any but four regions. The result dealt a blow to Mr. Putin, chairman of United Russia, as he prepares to reclaim presidency in March next.

concept of integrated management for crossing points, the EU said in a statement. NATO peacekeepers have clashed with ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo The border agreement comes a week before EU leaders are due to discuss Belgrades EU membership bid. Earlier, German Chancellor Angela Merkel had said Serbia would not be ready for EU membership until it normalised relations with Kosovo.

Myanmar Approves First Peaceful Protest Law

Myanmars President has approved a new law allowing citizens to request permission to stage peaceful protests for the first time. The new law says anyone planning a protest must request approval five days beforehand from police, who can deny permission but must explain the reason why. Demonstrations of any kind were previously banned in the traditionally repressive nation, where authorities have cracked down hard on antigovernment protests. The move is the latest reform undertaken by the nominally civilian government since it took power from a military junta earlier this year.

Syria Accepts Arab League Observer Request

Syria has accepted an Arab League request to send observers to the country in an effort to end its eight-month crisis, a move that could ease Arab sanctions on Damascus, the Foreign Ministry spokesman has said. The Ministrys spokesman told that Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem responded positively to the League demand and has sent a letter to the organisations chief Nabil Elaraby. Arab leaders had given Syria a new deadline to respond to the Leagues plan, which calls for the admission of observers to ensure compliance with a government ceasefire. They also held out the threat of pushing for U.N. involvement if Damascus balks.

Russia Supplies Ship Killer Missiles to Syria

Russia has supplied ship-killer missiles to Syria in defiance of the growing western demands for an arms embargo against the regime of President Bashar al-Assad. Russia has delivered the Bastion anti-ship missile system equipped with Yakhont supersonic missiles to Syria, said Senator Vyacheslav Popov, former Northern Fleet Commander. Under a 2007 contract, Russia was to supply two Bastion complexes with 72 Yakhont missiles. The fire-and-forget Yakhont with a 300-km range is the Russian version of the Indo-Russian Brahmos missile. The only difference is that Brahmos uses the Indian computer and navigation system.

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Zoran Jankovics Positive Slovenia wins Parliamentary Election

A new centre-left party headed by the mayor of Slovenias capital, Ljubljana has won a surprise victory in parliamentary elections. Zoran Jankovics Positive Slovenia has won 29.5% of the vote against 25.9% for ex-PM Janez Jansa, favourite to win. Prime Minister Borut Pahors party came third with just 10.3% of the votes. His government lost a confidence vote in September over pension reforms prompting early polls. It seems Mr Pahor is set to follow his counterparts in Greece, Italy, Spain, Ireland and Portugal as the latest eurozone leader to be ousted this year as a result of the debt crisis, says the BBCs Europe analyst Sam Wilson. Slovenias economy was booming under Mr Jansas previous term as prime minister, from 2004-08, but recent years have seen government debt and deficit soar and its borrowing rates hit the 7% danger level. Serbia and Kosovo Reach Border Management Agreement The European Union has said that Kosovo and Serbia have agreed to jointly manage their border crossings, one of the most contentious issues between them. The agreement was reached at EU-mediated talks and removes one block to eventual EU membership for Serbia. Serbia has not recognized Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence. The parties reached an agreement on the EU-developed

US Lifts Hold on Development Funds for Afghanistan

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has announced that the United States was ending a freeze on hundreds of millions of dollars in development funds for Afghanistan amid financial reforms. The United States is pleased to announce that we will be joining other partners in resuming financial disbursements to the Afghan Reconstruction Trust Fund, Clinton told a conference on Afghanistan in Bonn, Germany. US officials said Washington took its cue from the International Monetary Funds decision last month to approve a new loan for Afghanistan after a year of difficult talks stalled by the massive Kabul Bank scandal. The move occurred after Afghanistan made progress in financial sector regulations. US officials said that after the IMF halted its development program in June, the US suspended plans to disburse $650 million to $700 million in annual funds, paid out quarterly, to the ARTF. The ARTF oversees a program that promotes development projects in small communities throughout Afghanistan, including projects for digging wells, building roads and developing irrigation. US officials said the US, Britain, the European Union, Japan and Australia also froze payments to the ARTF. But it was not clear when these countries would resume payments.

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Bilateral/Multilateral Bulletin... ASEAN Summit-2011: Deepening Trans-Pacific partnership

If the Middle East was the focus of international politics in the last decade and Europe the decade before, East Asia is where the geopolitical action has now turned to. The 19th ASEAN summit which was held in Bali (Indonesia) in November 2011 was indicative of increasing geopolitical dynamism of the region. By inviting USA and Russia to the 6th East Asia Summit, ASEAN community has expanded its geopolitical space. The region is now actively considering an alternative, the so called Trans-pacific Partnership. Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs visit to the East Asian Summit occurred at a moment when the old continents tectonic plates are moving. After decades of relative political stability and growing economic prosperity, Asias international relations have acquired a new dynamism. But Unlike in the past, India now need not be a mute spectator to the changes in the balance of power around it. It is in a position to influence the direction and shape of the content of the structural change unfolding in Asia and elevate its own standing as a great power. EAS has been the forum for building an open, inclusive and transparent architecture of regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. In a relatively short period it has taken several initiatives to promote trade, economic integration and connectivity. It has facilitated collective responses to challenges such as natural disasters, pandemics, climate- change and energy security. The sideline of the summit saw hectic diplomatic moves at bilateral level by most of the participating countries, particularly India, China and USA. President Obama presided over meetings to promote trade and investment in the region. One of the most important economic deals was signed between Boeing and Indonesian carrier Lion Air which ordered 230 airplanes, and the White House said it would support tens of thousands of jobs in the U.S. All the leaders decided to coordinate international efforts on the five core areas of the EAS i.e. energy, education, finance, pandemics and disaster management as also connectivity and Comprehensive Economic Partnership for East Asia (CEPEA). The leaders adopted a Declaration on Principles of Mutually Beneficial Relations, and another on ASEAN Connectivity, which includes appreciation of the Comprehensive Asia Development Plan (CADP). The CADP is based on studies by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) and is meant to create infrastructural-industrial connectivity between ASEAN and the greater East Asia region. reflected growing significance of East Asia in global politics. The Bali summit marked the emphatic return of the United States to Asias centre stage. This is seen as an American attempt to limit Chinas growing prowess in the western Pacific. The increasing nearness of US with the countries of south-east Asia is perceived as policy of containment by Beijing. The latest American step to set up a military station in northern Australia is under the new doctrine called air-sea battle1 that will counter Beijings attempts to push the US navy away from the Asian littoral. China is also not comfortable with American interest in the South China Sea dispute. While the US does not take sides in these disputes, it has emphasized on a peaceful resolution of the competing claims in the sea according to accepted principle of international law. Beijing, in contrast prefers to talk with its neighbors bilaterally and was opposed to any discussion of the territorial disputes and the larger question of maritime security at the East Asia Summit. Until now, East Asia accepted the centrality of China in promoting regional economic integration within ASEAN PlusThree structure that brought together the 10 Southeast Asian nations together with China, Japan, and South Korea. The

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6th East Asian Summit

The most important part of Bali summit was the 6th East Asian Summit. The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a pan-Asia forum held annually by the leaders of 16 countries in East Asia and the region, with ASEAN in a leadership position. The members of the summit are all 10 members of ASEAN together with China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand who together represent almost half of the worlds population. USA and Russia were new addition in the latest Bali summit.

U.S Encirclement of the Beijing

The participation of USA and Russia

1. Air-Land Battle was the overall conceptual framework that formed the basis of the US Armys European war fighting doctrine from 1982 into the late 1990s. Air-Land Battle emphasized close coordination between land forces acting as an aggressively maneuvering defense, and air forces attacking rear-echelon forces feeding those front line enemy forces. Inspired by the Air-Land Battle concept, the United States Navy and Air Force are working on a new Air-Sea Battle doctrine. A version was codified in a 2009 Navy-Air Force classified memo which addressed asymmetrical threats in the Western Pacific and the Persian Gulf, which are seen as meaning China and Iran.

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shift in policy of south-east Asian nations is due to the Chinas muscular policy towards its Asian neighbor and Beijings attempt to enforce claim over East and South China Sea. All of the above developments have come in the backdrop of Chinas phenomenal rise and increasing assertiveness in the South and East Pacific. While the 10 ASEAN member nations have benefited from Chinas economic rise, its political and military ambitions have given them reason to be wary. This is evident in Beijings open declaration of the South China Sea as its exclusive sphere of influence - an assertion opposed by countries from Philippines to Taiwan, while India too has rubbed up against it. Till now big powers viewed South East Asia through the prism of China. As the region emerged unscathed from 2008 global economic crisis, it has become an attractive source of trade and investment. With limping American economy and eurozone crisis,

the region has become all the more important economically.

9th ASEAN- India Summit

As far as India is concerned, relation with ASEAN nations had been on high agenda under Look East policy. This year saw completion of 9th ASEAN- India Summit. ASEAN-India relations have witnessed a rapid period of growth in the past 20 years, since the time India became a sectoral dialogue partner in 1992, a full dialogue partner in 1996 and a Summit level partner in 2002. There is a mutuality of interest in the ASEANIndia relationship. The key drivers are partnership, capacity-building, dialogue and connectivity at the civilisational, cultural, geographic and institutional levels and addressing common challenges. The pace and scope of progress has been facilitated by a Plan of Action that ASEAN and India have agreed upon. In recent months, India has sought to intensify its collaboration and a number of projects

have been suggested to ASEAN member states through the ASEAN Secretariat. India would be hosting a special ASEANIndia Commemorative Summit in India next year. The Trade-in-Goods Agreement between India and ASEAN is now fully functional. Both sides are keen to conclude the Services-and-Investment Agreements which will complement the Trade-in-Goods Agreement. The Ninth ASEAN Economic Ministers-India Consultations were held on August 13, 2011 in Manado, Indonesia. The total trade between India and ASEAN has increased by 30 per cent in 2010-11 reaching around US$ 58 billion and is expected to be US$ 70 billion by 2012. The 2nd ASEAN-India Business Fair is planned to be held in December 2012, together with the ASEAN-India Business Summit and ASEAN-India Business Council. The 1st meeting of ASEAN-India Green Fund was held on October 19, 2011 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. India has deposited US$ 5 million into the Fund.

ASEAN
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The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, commonly abbreviated ASEAN is a geo-political and economic organization of 10 countries located in Southeast Asia, which was formed on 8 August 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Since then, membership has expanded to include Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. ASEAN was preceded by an organization called the Association of Southeast Asia, commonly called ASA, an alliance consisting of the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand that was formed in 1961. ASEANs aims include the acceleration of economic growth, social progress, cultural development among its members, the protection of the peace and stability of the region, and to provide opportunities for member countries to discuss differences peacefully. ASEAN spans over an area of 4.46 million km2, 3% of the total land area of Earth, with a population of approximately 600 million people, 8.8% of the world population. In 2010, its combined nominal GDP had grown to USD $1.8 trillion. If ASEAN was a single country, it would rank as the 9th largest economy in the world and the 3rd largest in Asia in terms of nominal GDP. ASEAN Summit: The organisation holds meetings, known as the ASEAN Summit, where heads of governments of each member state meet to discuss and resolve regional issues, as well as to conduct other meetings with other countries outside of the bloc with the intention of promoting external relations. The ASEAN Leaders Formal Summit was first held in Bali, Indonesia in 1976. By December 2008, the ASEAN Charter came into force and with it, the ASEAN Summit will be held twice in a year. Commemorative summit: A commemorative summit is a summit hosted by a non-ASEAN country to mark a milestone anniversary of the establishment of relations between ASEAN and the host country. The host country invites the heads of government of ASEAN member countries to discuss future cooperation and partnership. Regional Forum: The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) is a formal, official, multilateral dialogue in Asia Pacific region. As of July 2007, it consisted of 27 participants. ARF objectives are to foster dialogue and consultation, and promote confidence-building and preventive diplomacy in the region. The ARF met for the first time in 1994. The current participants in the ARF are as follows: all the ASEAN members, Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, Peoples Republic of China, European Union, India, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Mongolia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Russia, Timor-Leste, United States and Sri Lanka. Asia-Europe Meeting: The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is an informal dialogue process initiated in 1996 with the intention of strengthening cooperation between the countries of Europe and Asia, especially members of the European Union and ASEAN in particular. Free Trade Agreements with Other Countries: ASEAN has concluded free trade agreements with China (expecting bilateral trade of $500 billion by 2015), Korea, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and most recently India. The agreement with Peoples Republic of China created the ASEANChina Free Trade Area(ACFTA), which went into full effect on 1 January 2010. In addition, ASEAN is currently negotiating a free trade agreement with the European Union. Republic of China (Taiwan) has also expressed interest in an agreement with ASEAN but needs to overcome diplomatic objections from China.

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ASEAN and India also have an S&T Fund of US$ 1 million and multiple projects are under implementation, including an IndiaASEAN S&T Digital Centre, a Technology Information Commercialization Portal, a Virtual Institute for Intellectual Property etc. ASEAN and India are also considering projects in information and technology, space cooperation, new and renewable energy, education etc. India welcomed the growing cooperation with ASEAN on security issues, with focus on maritime security, counter-terrorism, training, exercises and disaster management.

India in September over its move to explore oil in the maritime area on offer from Vietnam. It had evoked a sharp retort from India. This was coupled with an incident in which an Indian Naval ship INS Airavat was threatened by the Chinese Navy while moving in that area. The Indian government asserts that since it is not clearly defined that the maritime area belongs wholly to China, the laws of the sea will apply. Indian PM also raised the issue of big trade imbalance in favour of China and told his counterpart that it needed correction for a more conducive business environment. The two leaders expressed happiness over bilateral trade crossing $60 billion mark in 2010. It is projected to touch $70 billion this year. They expressed confidence that the trade target of $ 100 billion would be achieved by 2015. Officials on both the sides downplayed the concerns from certain quarters regarding military buildup on the Indian side of the Indo-China border. They said that both sides were engaged in the second stage of talks on a movement forward in resolution of border issues and were close to an agreement on a mechanism to ensure tranquility on the border. Even as China prepares to go ahead with civilian nuclear cooperation with Pakistan in likely contravention of the trade cartels guidelines, it has called for consultations with all states before any moves are made to expand the NSG to include India. Chinas deals to set up two reactors in Pakistan, agreed to in 2009, caused controversy as China did not seek a waiver from the NSG, and went ahead with the deal in violation of the groups guidelines that bar the sale or transfer of nuclear technology to non-NPT countries India - Singapore After concluding his three days Bali visit (ASEAN and EAS summit) PM Manmohan Singh left for Singapore. Dr. Singh, who was there on a two-day visit, made the pitch while holding talks with Singapores Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on ways to boost the ties in a wide range of areas, including security and defence cooperation. Singapore has emerged as valued partner for Indias ambitious plan for

infrastructure development. It is Indias largest trade and investment partner in ASEAN. Singapores direct investment in India was the second largest, with the cumulative investment being $14 billion. On the eve of Dr. Singhs visit, India and Singapore concluded two Memoranda of Understanding for a cultural exchange programme and training of Indian civil servants in urban development in Singapore. Dr. Singh recalled that it was the opening of Indias relations with Singapore in the 1990s that led to a strategic shift in Indias foreign and economic policies which has now evolved into the countrys Look East policy. Singapore opened new horizons for India, he said. He noted that it was during Mr. Lees visit to India in 2005 that the two countries signed a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. That agreement has led to a qualitative upgrade of trade and investment relations with Singapore. Both Prime Ministers took note of the strong intergovernmental links between India and Singapore and continued regular high level institutional exchanges such as the Foreign Office Consultations, Ministerial Meetings, the Defence Policy Dialogue and the Security Round Table. Prime Minister extended an invitation to the Prime Minister of Singapore to pay a bilateral visit to India and also said that India is looking forward to Singapores participation in the India-ASEAN Summit in India in December- 2012 to commemorate 20 years of our partnership with ASEAN and in the series of activities India is planning in the run up to the Summit.

Bilateral Meetings On The Sideline Of ASEAN Summit:India and USA On the sidelines of ASEAN summit Dr. Manmohan Singh met with Barack Obama and discussed about pushing IndoUS cooperation both at bilateral and multilateral forums. Both the leaders identified some regional issues where both countries can work together. Some of the issues that were taken up in the meeting were maritime security, non-proliferation and terrorism. Implementation of civil nuclear deal was also discussed and Dr. Singh pointed out that his government will address the concerns of American companies over liability aspect. PM Manmohan Singh also discussed Irans nuclear programme issue with Mr. Obama. He said that issue should be dealt diplomatically. Though India doesnt want Iran to develop nuclear weapons (India voted against Iran in IAEA); but India accepts Irans right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. India and China On the sidelines of EAS, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao met and agreed on the need to work together for mutual growth. During the meeting both the leaders discussed new ideas and approaches to strengthen the bilateral relations. Both sides agreed that there is enough space in the world for both China and India to grow. The meeting comes against the backdrop of war of words between India and China over resources of South China Sea. China, which lays claim over entire South China Sea, had openly attacked

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Conclusion
All said and done, it is very much clear that the locus of global politics is shifting towards East Asia. Asia-Pacific is now being touted as Indo-Pacific by American policy makers, which has propped India on the global stage. This is done along with the American policy of cornering China. But India has to play its cards well and try not to strain the fragile relations with China. By pursuing an independent policy both at bilateral as well as multilateral level India could play bigger and constructive role in the new great game of Pacific.

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AuStRAlIA ENDS BAN ON uRANIum SAlE tO INDIA

In a positive change of events, Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard agreed to end longstanding ban on uranium supply to India. Australia is the third largest producer of Uranium in the world, after Kazakhstan and Canada. With India planning a major expansion of its nuclear electricity generation, Australia has always seemed to be a natural source of uranium. Its a departure from the previous stand of former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. The Liberal Party in Australia was open to changing Canberras nuclear export policy, but lost the elections in 2007. The Labour Party, because of its ideological commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, has been far more squeamish. a stringent safeguards agreement to prevent the misuse of imported uranium for weapons purposes. Given the federal nature of Australia, its state governments too will have a say in uranium sales. India has traditionally bought the high quality Australian coal; it has recently inked a multi-billion-dollar deal to import gas. Uranium would add to India-Australia energy ties, which may begin drifting to the security sphere. Australia is home to 40 per cent of the worlds economically extractable uranium and would secure supplies for several reactors India plans to build with foreign assistance. While the actual imports of uranium from Australia might take a while, the lifting of the ban signals Canberras commitment to build a genuine and comprehensive strategic partnership with New Delhi. This can be seen in the context of Chinas rise and Australian desire to have new stable system of balance of power in Asia Pacific. Canberra is looking to forge a tripartite alliance involving USA and India to build strong maritime security alliance. In a latest move, Canberra has facilitated 2500 strong marine base for US in its Northern Territory. Indias case also got boost due to its unblemished non-proliferation record. Pakistan has also demanded that it should be allowed to buy the nuclear raw material if the Gillard administration proceeds with sales of yellowcake to New Delhi which is a non-signatory to the NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty). But according to Australian Defense Minister Stephen Smith, India had zealously guarded its nuclear expertise. Theres no evidence over the years that India has in any way proliferated so far as uranium or nuclear materials or nuclear expertise is concerned, he said, while arguing in favour of uranium sale to India. As India prepares to deal with the remaining obstacles to buy uranium from Australia, it will be unwise for New Delhi to look to Australia only through a nuclear prism. For resource-poor India growing at 8 per cent per annum, mineral-rich Australia is an indispensable economic partner. Despite a small population of 23 million, Australia has the worlds 13th largest economy with a GDP of $1.2 trillion. A deeper and more encompassing economic deal is desirable for India. The Australian move marks a major shift in the nuclear policy of the country that had hitherto refused to lift the ban on uranium sales to NPT nonsignatories. Thus, it indicates a new set of relationships and it is up to Delhi now to discard its own long-standing blinkers about Australias important role in Asia and the world and move vigorously towards the construction of a durable economic and security partnership with Canberra.

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Meanwhile the Fukushima nuclear incident and Indias self-goal in passing unsustainable nuclear liability legislation last year have cast a shadow over the prospects for a rapid expansion of the atomic electricity generation in India. But In an effort to build a new relationship with India, Gillard chose to confront with one of Labour Partys biggest taboos and prevailed. India already has agreements with many other uranium producers and might not need to import it right away from Australia. The lifting of the export ban, however, ends what Delhi sees as Canberras discrimination against India. Australias policy had made no sense after the 46-nation Nuclear Suppliers Group carved out an exception for India from the international rules of nuclear commerce in September 2008. Seen in the context of Australias domestic politics with almost religious opposition of uranium sale to India by the ruling Labour Party, this decision seems quite significant. But this revoking of ban is with a rider. Delhi will have to negotiate

uranium Resource in Australia

Australia is home to 40 per cent of the worlds economically extractable uranium which is mainly concentrated in the Northern Territory (NT) and South Australia (SA). The NT is home to the Ranger mine, which produces about eight per cent of the worlds mined uranium. Another large uranium resource, known as the Jabiluka deposit, is located 22km from Ranger but is not being mined due to opposition from the local Aboriginal people. In South Australia, there are three mines and more than $1 in every $5 spent on exploration in the state is focused on uranium deposits.

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Bilateral/Multilateral News...
Correct Maps, India tells U.S.
The Government of India has asked the United States to correct maps of India featured on the State Department website. A senior Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official met the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission and the latter assured the former that the U.S. Embassy would convey New Delhis concerns to the State Department. The official said the government was aware of gross inaccuracies in the map. The government had consistently rejected incorrect depiction of Indias borders on maps used by the U.S. government. It had used every opportunity to convey to the U.S. its concern in this regard, and asked that these maps be corrected. claim publicly, etc. The Chinese expert said that China also did not see Indias involvement in the South China projects as purely commercial as India has suggested echoing recent media reports that saw India looking to take sides with Chinas neighbours.

India, Nepal Sign Revised Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement

India and Nepal have signed a revised Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), with the aim of encouraging Indian investment in Nepal, preventing fiscal evasion, and easing procedures for stakeholders with commercial interests in both countries. The treaty, based on modern taxation principles and in line with the current international environment, will replace the older agreement on double taxation avoidance signed in 1987. The revised DTAA will provide tax stability to the residents of India and Nepal and facilitate mutual economic cooperation as well as stimulate the flow of investment, technology and services between India and Nepal. The DTAA includes provisions for exchange of information, assistance in collection of taxes between tax authorities and anti-abuse provisions. The exchange of information will extend to exchanging bank details, and could be shared with other law enforcement agencies with the consent of the information supplying country. Since tax rates are lower in Nepal, investors who had paid taxes in India would not have to do so in Nepal and those who paid taxes in Nepal would only have to pay the differential amount back in India. The pact comes soon after the two countries signed the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement during Mr. Bhattarais visit to India last month. Nepal hopes that the two agreements together would encourage further Indian investment in Nepal, which in turn would lead to greater exports and help bridge the growing trade deficit with India. India accounts for more than 45 per cent of foreign direct investment in Nepal, while two-thirds of Nepals trade is with India.

Russian Radio Drama for Indian Audiences

Russian classical literature has been brought to Indian audiences across air waves in a revival of a Soviet-era project of building cultural bridges between the two nations. The Voice of Russia has begun producing and broadcasting radio dramas based on the works of famous Russian playwrights. It has already aired several plays by Anton Chekov, including his most famous Cherry Garden. The plays were adapted for radio and broadcast in 15minute installments in Hindi and Urdu. The Voice of Russia has picked from where Radio Moscow, as it was known in the Soviet days, left. Radio drama was then a staple feature of broadcasts from Moscow, but was taken off the air when funding dried up after the fall of the Soviet Union.

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Behind Postponed Border Talks, China Sees a Newly Assertive India

The postponement of the 15th round of border talks, following Indias refusal to accede to Chinese demands to reschedule a Buddhist conference that was organised on the same dates and involved the Dalai Lama, has been seen in China as part of a trend of India taking an increasingly bold and assertive position on disputes. Chinese media and analysts appeared to dismiss suggestions that the holding of the Buddhist conference in New Delhi in the same week as the visit of Chinese State Councillor Dai Bingguo, Chinas Special Representative on the border negotiations, was accidental and not political, as Indian officials had said. The border talks, as well as the South China Sea issue, have led to the perception among Chinese analysts of India beginning to take a different, more assertive approach. A Chinese expert said From Chinas side, Indian governments, in the past successive years, have utilised the Dalai Lama to legalise Indias claim on the disputed territories. For instance, Indian governments encouraging the Dalai Lama to revisit Tawang (in Arunachal Pradesh, which China has claims on) once and again, forcing Dalai to support Indias territorial

New Delhi, Dhaka to Expedite Extradition Treaty

Stepping up their cooperation in security-related matters, India and Bangladesh has decided to expedite the signing of an extradition treaty under consideration for some time. Such a treaty would facilitate the handing over of Anup Chetia, general secretary of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) from Bangladesh. The ULFA leader has served his sentence in a jail in Dhaka since his arrest there in 1997 on the charge of entering the country without valid documents. India assured Bangladesh of extending all possible cooperation to track down the killers of the Father of Nation of Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who is also father of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

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The draft [extradition treaty] has been shared and both the countries are scrutinizing the agreement. Bangladesh Home Secretary Monzur Hossain said that the pact would be signed at the earliest. A joint statement issued after the talks said the two countries agreed to put into operation a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT), transfer of sentenced persons, and Agreement on Combating Organised Crime and Illegal Drug Trafficking. The three key agreements were signed during the visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India in January last year, setting the stage for the security cooperation. The joint statement said both countries reaffirmed their commitment not to allow the territory of either country to be used for any activity inimical to each others interests. Both sides also agreed to implement the coordinated Border Management Plan signed during the visit of Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram to Bangladesh in July this year. India appreciated the cooperation extended by Dhaka to prevent smuggling of Fake Indian Currency Notes. Both sides agreed to develop mechanisms to speed up verification of the nationality status of prisoners lodged in jails of either country, particularly of those who have completed their sentence, to enable their early repatriation.

India, UAE Step up Security Cooperation

Taking cooperation in security-related matters to a higher level, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed two key agreements on security cooperation and the transfer of sentenced persons. While the agreement on transfer of sentenced persons provides the framework to allow convicted prisoners to serve the remainder of their sentences in their respective home countries, and thereby facilitate social rehabilitation, the one on security cooperation seeks to strengthen and develop the existing bilateral framework in areas such as combating terrorism in all forms, addressing activities of organised criminal groups, drug-trafficking, and illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives. There are around 1,200 Indians imprisoned in the UAE for various crimes, including on drugs and finance-related charges. It is not yet clear how many of them were sentenced prisoners. There is only one UAE national at present lodged in an Indian jail. The pact will apply only to those who have already been convicted, and not to undertrials. As per its provisions, any Indian sentenced in the UAE, who is to be transferred to an Indian jail, should have a minimum of six months of jail-term left and there should not be any pending case against him. The two sides also discussed issues pertaining to bilateral security cooperation, drug-trafficking, security and capacity-building so as to enhance cooperation for combating organised crime.

India has not Laid Claim to Kachchativu: Sri Lanka

Kachchativu is an integral part of Sri Lanka and it has always been so, the External Affairs Minister G L Peiris has said. He was quoted in Sri Lankan media as saying that the Indian government has not made any claim on Kachchativu Islands and both Sri Lankan and Indian governments consider this issue as a settled matter. The 1974 agreement signed between the two governments formally confirmed Sri Lankas sovereignty over Kachchativu island. Prof Peiris quoted Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishnas statement in the Lok Sabha on August 26, to drive home his point that the Indian government accepted that the Kachchativu island lies on the Sri Lankan side of the Maritime boundary and considers it as a settled matter.

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India, Ukraine Agree for Durable Defence Ties

Having supplied military hardware to Pakistan, Ukraine now wants to enter into a durable defence relationship with India. Subjected to competing pulls from Russia and the European Union, Ukraine is looking at Asia, especially India, for collaboration in a large number of areas including civil nuclear energy, visiting Ukraine Foreign Minister Kostyantyn Gryshchenko said. Home to niche technologies and having been subjected to a nuclear accident in 1986, Ukraine has lessons in nuclear safety for India because this sector still caters to 45-50 per cent of the countrys energy needs. Most reactors are based on the same technology offered by the Russians for the Kudankulam plant and a large number of Ukrainian engineers were working there till protesters forced a shutdown. India and Ukraine are understood to be working on an energy pact which will subsume a memorandum of understanding between the civil nuclear regulators as also cover sectors such as gas and solar energy. But for the immediate future, it is defence which will gain the most attention. Kiev is already modernising the An-32s, backbone of the Indian Air Forces transport and troop replenishment fleet, and wants a more wide-ranging relationship. India and Ukraine could begin by coordinating efforts against pirates off the Gulf of Aden, described by the Minister as a scourge that affects both countries, exchanging notes on United Nations peace keeping operations, and moving towards interoperability between the militaries through joint exercises.

4th SAARC Technical Conference on Human Trafficking

The fourth SAARC Technical Conference on human trafficking has been concluded in Kabul with an agreement to work for curbing trafficking in women and children and enhancing public awareness on this issue. Two day conference was attended by the representatives of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The meeting adopted a six point agreement which calls for various measures to control these threats. It also stresses upon the need for providing a toll-free telephone number in all member countries as a part of efforts to curb human trafficking. The agreement has a provision for appointing two representatives to the SAARC Secretariat for implementing the project. The next technical meeting of the organization on the subject will be held in Bhutan in April 2012.

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New Zealand Envisages Indias Positive Role in Security of Asia

India and New Zealand are interested in an inclusive security and economic architecture in the Asian region. On the recent trends in Chinas foreign policy, both sides have expressed that China needs to be engaged deeply in Asian regional architecture for Asian Peace and Stability. At the conclusion of the 3rd Round of The Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) Asia-New Zealand Foundation Track - 2 dialogue in New Delhi recently, New Zealand said it envisages a positive role for India in the evolving security architecture in Asia. Both India and New Zealand are members of the East Asia Summit. The two sides discussed Asian Security, South China Sea and Maritime Security issues and spoke about the impact of Chinas rise on Asian regionalism. New Zealand is engaged in deeper engagement with the Asian countries. It concluded an FTA with China in 2008 and is discussing a similar agreement with India. Almost 10 per cent of the New Zealand population consists of immigrants, of which three per cent is of the Indian origin.

the meeting of legal advisers of foreign offices of the U.N. member states since 2002.Over the past two decades, Singh has represented India in a number of key conferences on international law and has been a regular participant in the work of the Sixth Committee of the U.N. General Assembly that deals with legal affairs. ILC consists of 34 members who must be experts on international law. They are elected by the General Assembly from a list of candidates nominated by governments of member states in the U.N. The other candidates elected from the AsiaPacific Group come from Japan, China, Jordan, Korea, Indonesia, Qatar and Thailand. The Commission was established by the General Assembly in 1948 for the promotion of the progressive development of international law and its codification.

India Looks to Buddhism to Boost Flagging China Tourism

Eyeing Chinas fast expanding outbound tourism market, which has, so far, largely bypassed India, the Indian government has launched a tourism campaign targeting the worlds fastestgrowing Buddhist population with a direct sales pitch: visit India and reconnect with your faith. Indian officials hope that promoting the Buddhist circuit train in China, which has been in operation since 2007 and stops along several pilgrimage sites in northern India, can help boost the low numbers of Chinese tourists who travel to India. They have begun marketing the train in Beijing as a way for Chinese to reconnect with their faith, but in comfort. India has, so far, failed to grab a slice of Chinas thriving tourism industry. Every year, Chinese tourists spend in excess of $40 billion overseas.Of the estimated 47 million Chinese who travel abroad every year, around 102,000 or only 0.21 per cent travelled to India, according to 2009 statistics. Vietnam, South Korea and Japan each attracted more than 10 times that number. The train takes travellers, over the course of a week, to several cities associated with the Buddhas life. Starting in New Delhi, the Mahaparinirvan Express stops at places such as Bodhgaya, Varanasi, Nalanda, Kushinagar and eventually, Lumbini in Nepal, the Buddhas birthplace.

India Re-elected to Key UN Committee CERD

Adding yet another feather to its cap, India has been reelected to a key UN committee on the elimination of racial discrimination. Recently India has secured the membership of the powerful Joint Inspection Unit, the only external oversight body of the United Nations. Indias nominee Ambassador Dilip Lahiri was re-elected to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), a body under the UN Human Rights system, for a three-year term beginning January 20, 2012. He secured 147 votes out of 167 cast in the elections held at the UN headquarters. The win comes over after India won a key election to the Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) defeating China in a direct fight and returning to the UNs powerful external oversight body after a gap of 35 years. The CERD election is the latest in a series of wins that India has been registering at various UN bodies in recent times.

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Bhutan Welcomes NIDs Move to Share Design Expertise

The Queen Mother of Bhutan, Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuk has welcomed the National Institute of Designs (NIDs) decision to extend its expertise to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) region countries. The Queen Mother of Bhutan, who is on three-day visit to Gujarat, is accompanied by a 16-member delegation from her country. It will provide an excellent platform for designers from Bhutan to work together in developing appropriate solutions to problems through design interventions.

In Bangladesh, Tipaimukh Dam Pact Sparks Fresh Row

Though the Ministry of External Affairs has promised to provide Bangladesh with details of the agreement on the construction of the Tipaimukh Dam in Manipur, the very signing of the deal has sparked a fresh controversy. Following criticism, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry has issued a statement, disclosing that India had promised to give details of the deal signed recently by National Hydro Power Company, Sutlej JalVidyut Nigam Ltd. and the Manipur government to build the 1,500-MW project. Since the deal was signed without any knowledge of Bangladesh, the Bangladeshi experts, Opposition parties and the media have blamed the government for failing to take diplomatic

India Re-elected to U.N.s International Law Commission

India has been re-elected to the International Law Commission for a five year term beginning January 1, 2012.U.N. General Assembly re-elected Indias Narinder Singh as a member of the Commission. A member of the ILC since 2007, Singh is currently legal adviser and Head of the Legal and Treaties Division of Ministry of External Affairs. He has served as coordinator of

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steps to stop the dam construction, arguing that it is in breach of Indias commitment and it will harm the countrys interests. Environmentalists and agriculture experts have warned that the twin dams, at Tipaimukh and Phulertal, across the cross-border Barak river would dry up rivers and waterbodies downstream, rendering vast farmland arid, hitting agriculture and threatening food security in the north-eastern districts of Bangladesh. The agreement is also seen as a violation of the framework agreement signed between the two countries in Dhaka. A joint communiqu issued during Ms. Hasinas visit to New Delhi in January 2010 said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh gave the assurance that India would not take steps in respect of the Tipaimukh project that would adversely impact Bangladesh. He also reiterated the assurance in an identical statement during his return visit to Dhaka on September 6 this year.

struggle for a United State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as the capital, as per the relevant U.N. resolutions, the Arab Peace Initiative and Quartet road map. The Minister also handed over a cheque of $1 million as Indias annual contribution for 201112 to be utilized for food for 50 school days to 76,000 students attending U.N.-funded schools in Gaza.

Unit to Exchange Info on Black Money in IBSA Nations Set up

Even as the Government has got authentic information from nearly 10 countries including Germany and Switzerland on the black money stashed abroad by Indians, the government has set up an electronic centre unit in the Finance Ministry to deal with the unaccounted money issue in India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA). This new unit, functioning under the wings of North Block, will deal with these Governments in exchanging information on tax evaders and black money in IBSA nations. The government has received information from 10 countries on the issue. The information is being disseminated by the various government agencies. Already prosecution has been launched in 17 cases pertaining to LTG bank in Germany. The IBSA electronic centre unit is aimed at tackling this menace in these nations, an official said. This new unit, in close association with the revenue intelligence agencies of other countries, identify and share information on tax evaders, on abusive tax schemes and the people who are involved in promotion of such activities. Abusive tax schemes are those transactions that are designed to reduce or defer taxation. Officials of the three countries held prolonged talks recently before a decision was taken to set up this tax evasion prevention unit. At present, Indian has Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with Brazil and South Africa. Representatives of all the countries will have an exchange of information and hold regular meetings in the three countries by rotation to work out a joint strategy on how to tackle this growing menace of stashing funds abroad and prevent ways of tax evasion. This move comes in view of the increasing pressure on the UPA II government to act on the issue of black money and take strong measures to bring back billions of dollars kept in bank accounts illegally abroad. The opposition parties, civil society and social activists and also Supreme Court have kept up the pressure on the Government on the issue of black money. At present, India has revised DTAAs with 40 nations enabling sharing of information on banking and other tax-related information. In May this year, the government had constituted the panel to look into strengthening of the law to curb black money generation. The committee is likely to submit its report soon. In fact, India is also considering signing the multilateral convention on mutual administration assistance in tax matters, which is backed by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. This will promote automatic exchange of information and provisions for assistance in tax collection. Currently, there are 20 signatories to the convention.

Yal Devi Express set to Restore Jaffna-Colombo Link in Two Years

By the end of 2013, the Yal Devi (Goddess of Jaffna) Express will again run to Kankasanthurai (KKS) from Colombo. The express train, which was named in the 1950s (though services commenced much earlier), had to be curtailed in the early 1990s because of the war between the Tamil Tigers and the Sri Lankan forces. During the war years, it operated between Colombo and Thandikulam, but now runs till Omanthai. On 19th November, IRCON and Sri Lanka Railways signed a memorandum of understanding to construct the 56 km KKSPallai line at a cost of $149.3 million. This project will be funded as a part of the Line of Credit of $800 million, which has been extended by the government of India at concessional terms, at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 0.5% (with LIBOR capped at 3%) and a repayment period of 20 years (with a fiveyear moratorium). The southern coastal railway line project is also being funded under an additional line of credit of $167.4 million provided by India.

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IBSA Gifts Sports Centre to Palestine

The IBSA (India-Brazil-South Africa) solidarity was on display in Ramallah, Palestine with leaders and officials from the three countries gifting a sports centre to the Palestinian Authority. The sports centre is the first project completed through IBSA funding and two more IBSA-funded projects are in progress rehabilitation of the Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza and construction of a Centre for People with Special Needs in Nablus. India, along with Brazil and South Africa, has consistently supported Palestines cause. In 1975, India was the first non-Arab state to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organisation and five years later gave full diplomatic recognition to its office in New Delhi. In 1988, India recognised the state of Palestine. External Affairs Minister Mr. E. Ahamed said the issue of Palestine has taken a decisive turn after Mr. Abbas filed an application with United Nations Secretary General demanding Palestines full membership. He recalled Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs speech in the U.N. General Assembly that India has been steadfast in its support for the Palestinian peoples

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RuPEE DEPREcIAtIoN: MEANINg, cAuSES AND outlook

To add to the woes of the already battered government on various fronts like policy making, weak macroeconomic fundamentals and slowing down of economic growth, the depreciation of rupee against the US dollar marks a new risk for the Indian economy and the government at the helm. The decline in the value of rupee has been significant. As per the recent available reports, the rupee has declined almost 20 per cent against the US dollar and is hovering around Rs. 54 per US dollar, making the rupee the worst performer in Asia. Moreover, this decline does not seem to stop, at least in this quarter, as indicated by the non-deliverables future currency exchange market1, where the rupee is trading at near Rs. 56 per US dollar. What is even more interesting to note is that when other countries are trying to play currency wars and trying to keep their currencies devalued, India is trying to prevent depreciation of the currency. In this light it would be prudent to clearly understand the meaning of depreciation of rupee, its probable causes and outlook and also the policy options. However, for currencies like INR which are not traded on exchanges, the value depends on capital inflows in the country. A currency appreciates means its value has increased in relation to another currency. A currency depreciates means its value has decreased in relation to another currency. Both current account and capital account play a role in determining the movement of the currency. 2. current Account Surplus/Deficit: Current account surplus means exports are more than imports. In economics we assume prices to be in equilibrium and hence to balance the surplus, the currency should appreciate. Likewise for current account deficit countries, the currency should depreciate. 3. capital Account flows: As currency adjustments do not happen immediately to adjust current account surpluses and deficits, capital flows play a role. Deficit countries need capital flows and surplus countries generate capital outflows. On a global level we assume that deficits will be cancelled by surpluses generated in other countries. In theory we assume current account deficits will be equal to capital inflows but in real world we could easily have a situation of excessive flows. So, some countries can have current account deficits and also a balance of payments surplus as capital inflows are higher than current account deficits. In this case, the currency does not depreciate but actually appreciates as in the case of India. Only when capital inflows are not enough, there will be depreciating pressure on the currency 4. Interest Rate Differentials: This is based on interest rate parity theory. This says that countries which have higher interest rates, their currencies should depreciate. If this does not happen, there will be cases for arbitrage for foreign investors till the arbitrage opportunity disappears from the market. The reality is far more complex as higher interest rates could actually bring in higher capital inflows putting further appreciating

Economics of currency
The exchange rate of the currency of a country in relation to the currency of another country depends on the comparative trade advantages and economic strengths of the countries. If one US dollar is equal to 45 rupees, it simply means that in the US, if a dollar fetches 45 oranges, in India, a rupee would fetch only one orange of equivalent size and quality. Just like any other commodity, the currency of an economy is based on dynamics of supply and demand, and its value depends on trading in currency exchanges all over the world. Higher the demand for a currency on an exchange, the stronger it becomes and vice versa.

Eg. If 1$ costs Rs 45 on a particular day and costs Rs 44, the day after, this means rupee has appreciated in its value. Similarly, if the cost becomes Rs 46, this means rupee has depreciated.

`
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Factors affecting currency Movements

Predicting currency movements is perhaps one of the hardest exercises in economics as it has many variables affecting the market movement. However, over a long term, currency movement is determined by following factors: 1. Balance of Payments: It is the sum of current account and capital account of a country and is an external account of a country with other countries.

1. In finance, a non-deliverable forward (NDF) is an outright forward or futures contract in which counterparties settle the difference between the contracted NDF price or rate and the prevailing spot price or rate on an agreed notional amount. It is used in various markets such as foreign exchange and commodities.

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pressure on the currency. In such a scenario, foreign investors earn both higher interest rates and also gain on the appreciating currency. This could lead to a herd mentality by foreign investors posing macroeconomic problems for the monetary authority. 5. Inflation: Higher inflation leads to central banks increasing policy rates which invite foreign capital on account of interest rate arbitrages. This could lead to further appreciation of the currency. However, it is important to differentiate between high inflation over a short term versus a prolonged one. Over short-term, foreign investors see inflation as a temporary problem and still invest in the domestic economy. If inflation becomes a prolonged one, it leads to overall worsening of economic prospects and capital outflows and eventual depreciation of the currency. Apart from this, inflation also helps understand the real changes in the value of currency. Real exchange rate = Nominal Exchange Rate* (Inflation of foreign country/Inflation of domestic economy). This implies if domestic inflation is higher, the real change in the value of the currency will be lower compared to the nominal change in currency. 6. Fiscal Deficit: Fiscal deficit play a role especially during currency crisis. If a country follows a fixed exchange rate and also runs a large fiscal deficit, it could lead to speculative attacks on the currency. Higher deficits imply government might resort to using forex reserves to finance its deficit. This leads to lowering of the reserves and in case there is a speculation on the currency, the government may not have adequate reserves to protect the fixed value of the currency. This pushes the government to devalue the currency. So, though fiscal deficits do not have a direct bearing on foreign exchange markets, they play a role in case there is a crisis. 7. global economic conditions: Barring domestic conditions, global conditions

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Other factors also led to appreciation of the rupee. First, India entered a Rupee Movement since 1991 favorable growth phase registering growth rates of 9% and above since In 1991, Indian economy met with a 2003. This surprised investors as severe BoP crisis, necessitating economic few had imagined India could grow reforms and opening up of the economy. at that rate consistently. The high This was followed by several reforms growth led to surge in capital inflows liberalizing the economy and exchange mainly in portfolio inflows. Second, rate shifted from fixed to managed Indias inflation started rising around floating one. Since 1991, the Rupee has 2007 leading to RBI tightening policy exhibited a path as discussed below: rates. This led to higher interest rate When India opened up its economy differential between India and other post 1991, Rupee depreciated as countries leading to additional capital it had current account deficits. inflows as highlighted above. It is Earlier current account deficits were important to understand that at that mainly on account of merchandise time investors did not feel inflation trade deficits. However, as services will remain persistent and thought it exports picked up, it helped lower the to be a transitory issue and could be pressure on current account deficit tackled by monetary policy. majorly. Without services exports, current account deficit would have During Lehman crisis capital flows shrunk sharply from a high of $107 bn been much higher. in 2007-08 to just $7.8 bn in 2008-09 There was a blip during South East and led to sharp depreciation of the Asian crisis when current account currency. Rupee plunged from around deficit increased from $4.6 bn to Rs 39 per $ to Rs. 50 per $. REER (Real $5.5 bn in 1997-98. Capital inflows Effective Exchange Rate)1 moved from declined from $11.4 bn to $10.1 bn 112.76 in 2007-08 to 102.97 in 2008leading to a decline in BoP surplus 09 depreciating sharply by 9.3%. The and depreciation of the rupee. current account deficit also declined However, given the scale of the crisis sharply as well tracking decline in oil the depreciation pressure on Rupee prices from $ 12 bn in Jul-Sep 08 to was much lesser. There was active $0.3 bn in Jan-Mar 09. The currency monetary management by RBI during also depreciated tracking the global the period. Similar measures have crisis which led to preference for been taken by RBI in current phase of dollar assets compared to other Rupee depreciation as well. currency assets. Till around 2005, India received Indian economy recovered much capital inflows just enough to balance quicker and sharper from the global the current account deficit. The crisis. The capital inflows increased situation changed after 2005 as India from $7.8 bn to $51.8 bn in 2009-10 started receiving capital inflows much and $57 bn in 2010-11. The higher higher than current account deficit. capital inflows were on account of The capital inflow composition also both FDI and FII. External Commercial changed where external financing Borrowings also picked up in 2010-11. dominated in early 1990s and now

impact the currency movement as well. In times of high uncertainty as seen lately, most currencies usually depreciate against US Dollar as it is seen as a safe haven currency. Hence even over a longer term, multiple factors determine an exchange rate with each one playing an important role over time.

most of the capital inflows came via foreign investment. Within foreign investment, share of portfolio flows was much higher. As capital inflows were higher than the current account deficit Rupee appreciated against major currencies.

1. This exchange rate is used to determine an individual countrys currency value relative to the other major currencies in the index, as adjusted for the effects of inflation. All currencies within the said index are the major currencies being traded today: U.S. dollar, Japanese yen, euro, etc.

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Depreciation of Rupee: 2011-12

The problems started to surface from Q2 of the 2011-12 onwards. The current account deficits increased on the one hand and on the other capital inflows especially FII inflows declined. Apart from difficulty in capital inflows, Indian economy prospects have declined sharply. Just at the beginning of the year, forecasts for Indias growth for 201112 were around 8-8.5% and have been revised downwards to around 6.5%-7%. It has been a shocking turnaround of events for Indian economy. Both foreign and domestic investors have become jittery in the last few months because of following reasons: 1. Persistent inflation: Inflation has remained around 9-10% for almost two years now. Though inflation is expected to ease but qualitatively speaking inflation still remains high with core inflation1 itself around 8% levels. It is important to recall that the episode of 2007-08 when despite high inflation and high interest rates, capital inflows were abundant. This was because markets believed this inflation is temporary. Even this time, investors felt the same as capital inflows resumed quickly as India recovered from the global crisis. However, as inflation remained persistent and became a more structural issue, investors reversed their expectations on Indian economy. 2. Persistent fiscal deficits: The fiscal deficits continue to remain high. The government projected a fiscal deficit target of 4.6% for 2011-12 but is likely to be much higher on account of higher subsidies. The markets questioned the fiscal deficit numbers just after the budget and projected the numbers could be much higher. This indeed has become the case. As highlighted above, persistent fiscal deficits play a role in shaping expectations over the currency rate as well. 3. lack of reforms: There have been very few meaningful reforms in the last few years in Indian economy.

Moreover, the policies seem to be getting increasingly populist. The government wanted to reverse this perception and announced FDI in retail but had to hold back amidst huge furor from both opposition and allies. This has further made investors negative over the Indian economy. As FII inflows are going to be difficult given the uncertain global conditions, the focus has to be on FDI. 4. continued global uncertainty: This is an obvious point with global economy continuing to remain in a highly uncertain zone on account of uncertainty in Euro-zone area. This has prevented the banks from lending the US dollar and FIIs are betting on safe US treasury bonds leading to the rise in the demand for the US dollar. All these reasons together have led to sharp depreciation of the rupee. In terms of 6 REER (calculated w.r.t the basket of 6 currencies) and 36 REER (36 currencies), Rupee has depreciated by 10.44% and 7.7% respectively. The later numbers of REER are likely to show higher depreciation as well. During Lehman crisis, the two indices had depreciated by 9.3% and 9.9% respectively.

as depreciation will negate the impact. Inflation was expected to decline from Dec-11 onwards but Rupee depreciation has played a spoilsport. Inflation may still decline (as there is huge base effect) but Rupee depreciation is likely to lower the scale of decline.

What are the policy options with RBI?

1. Raising Policy rates: This measure was used by countries like Iceland and Denmark in the initial phase of the crisis. The rationale was to prevent sudden capital outflows and prevent meltdown of their currencies. In Indias case, this cannot be done as RBI has already tightened policy rates significantly since Mar-10 to tame inflationary expectations. Higher interest rates along with domestic and global factors have pushed growth levels much lower than expectations. In its Dec-11 monetary policy review, RBI mentioned that future monetary policy actions are likely to reverse the cycle responding to the risks to growth. Indias interest rates are already higher than most countries anyways but this has not led to higher capital inflows. On the other hand, lower policy rates in future could lead to further capital outflows. 2. using Forex Reserves: RBI can sell forex reserves and buy Indian Rupees leading to demand for rupee. Based on weekly forex reserves data, RBI seems to be selling forex reserves selectively to support Rupee. Its intervention has been limited as liquidity in money markets has remained tight in recent months and further intervention only tightens liquidity further. 3. Easing capital controls: According to Dr Gokarn (one of the four Deputy Governors of the Reserve Bank of India along with Anand Sinha, K C Chakrabarty and H.R.Khan) , capital controls could be eased to allow more capital inflows. He says that resisting currency depreciation is best done by increasing the supply of foreign currency by expanding market participation. This in essence, has

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outlook and Policy Measures

The above analysis shows that Rupee has depreciated amidst a mix of economic developments in India. Apart from lower capital inflows uncertainty over domestic economy has also made investors nervous over Indian economy which has further fuelled depreciation pressures. India was receiving capital inflows even amidst continued global uncertainty in 200911 as its domestic outlook was positive. With domestic outlook also turning negative, Rupee depreciation was a natural outcome. Depreciation leads to imports becoming costlier which is a worry for India as it meets most of its oil demand via imports. Apart from oil, prices of other imported commodities like metals, gold etc will also rise pushing overall inflation higher. Even if prices of global oil and commodities decline, the Indian consumers might not benefit

1. Core inflation is a measure of inflation which excludes certain items that face volatile price movements, notably food and energy.

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been RBIs response to depreciating Rupee. Following measures have been taken lately: Increase in the FII limit on investment in government and corporate debt instruments. First, it raised the ceilings on interest rates payable on non-resident deposits. This was later deregulated allowing banks to determine their own deposit rates. The all-in-cost ceiling for External Commercial Borrowings was enhanced to allow more ECB borrowings. 4. Administrative measures: Apart from easing capital controls, administrative measures have been taken to curb market speculation. Earlier, entities that borrow abroad were liberally allowed to retain those funds overseas. They are now required to bring the proportion of those funds to be used for domestic expenditure into the country immediately. Earlier people could rebook forward contracts after cancellation. This facility has been withdrawn which

Growing Indian economy has led to widening of current account deficit as imports of both oil and non-oil have risen. Despite dramatic rise in software exports, current account deficit has Net Overnight Open Position Limit remained elevated. Apart from rising (NOOPL) or trading limits of forex CAD, financing CAD has also been seen dealers has been reduced across the as a concern as most of these capital board and revised limits in respect of inflows are short-term in nature. PMs individual banks are being advised to Economic Advisory Council in particular the forex dealers separately. has always mentioned this as a policy After these recent measures, Rupee concern. Boosting exports and looking for depreciation has abated but it still more stable longer term foreign inflows remains under pressure. Both domestic have been suggested as ways to alleviate and global conditions are indicating the concerns on current account deficit. The downward pressure on Rupee to remain in exports have risen but so have prices of future. RBI is likely to continue its policy crude oil leading to further widening of mix of controlled intervention in forex current account deficit. Efforts have been markets and administrative measures to made to invite FDI but much more needs curb volatility in Rupee. Apart from RBI, to be done especially after the holdback government should take some measures of retail FDI and recent criticisms of policy to bring FDI and create a healthy paralysis. Without a more stable source environment for economic growth. of capital inflows, Rupee is expected Some analysts have even suggested that to remain highly volatile shifting gears Government should float overseas bonds from an appreciating currency outlook to depreciating reality in quick time. to raise capital inflows.

will ensure only hedgers book forward contracts and volatility is curbed. A forward contract is an agreement between two parties to buy or sell an asset at a specified future time at a price agreed today.

conclusion

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Economy News...
Gopinath Committee Recommendations accepted by the Government
After months of dithering, the government has accepted most of the recommendations of the Shyamala Gopinath Committee, which was set up at the instance of the 13th Finance Commission to review the parameters of the National Small Savings Fund (NSSF) and the various small savings schemes. The most significant of them is to link the return on the small savings instruments to market rates, a step that will have major implications for the finances of the Centre and the States. Surely, there will be greater transparency in interest rates as the small savings instruments are being benchmarked to yields on government securities, and this in turn will pave the way for a more cost-effective management of public finances at the Central and State levels. Presumably, the market-oriented rates on the small savings instruments will revive popular interest, which has of late been flagging as depositors started migrating to banks. Indeed, the Centre recently announced public borrowing of about Rs.53, 000 crore over and above what was budgeted for to offset the shortfall in collections under various small savings schemes. Even with their new market orientation, small savings instruments will still be subject to government control, although to a lesser degree than before. The contrast with the banking system is particularly striking in one key area: while the interest rate on savings deposits with banks has been freed recently, that on post office savings bank deposits remains controlled, though it has been raised from 3.5 per cent to 4 per cent. The committee has done well to recognise the role of the various small savings schemes in catering to the thrift needs of different sections of the population. Only one scheme the Kisan Vikas Patra has been recommended for closure. The most popular scheme, the Public Provident Fund, gets a substantial boost. PPF deposits will now carry an interest of 8.60 per cent instead of 8 per cent. More significantly, individuals can invest a larger amount, up to Rs.1 lakh, in a year and claim tax rebate under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. At present, the ceiling is Rs.70, 000. However, borrowing from the PPF has become costlier. Rules relating to post office deposit schemes have been relaxed, with the depositor given the option to close the deposit before maturity. The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme will continue to offer 9 per cent for investment up to Rs.15 lakh. The scheme, which was popular at a time banks were offering very low rates, is bound to be less attractive now. Small savings schemes will continue to be relevant as a means of furthering financial inclusion. that was attended by officials of the RBI, Air India and SBI Caps, which had submitted the debt restructuring proposal. The beleaguered national carrier has accumulated debt of over Rs.64, 000 crore from 14 lenders which, under the aegis of SBI Caps, had submitted a restructuring proposal to the RBI seeking its permission to extend the loan tenures, among other issues. A Group of Ministers (GoM) had recently asked the AI to get the debt recast proposal cleared by the RBI within this month itself.

S&P downgrades American, European Banks and Upgrades Chinese

Following its ground-shaking downgrade of the United States sovereign debt rating from AAA to AA+ on August 5, top credit rating agency Standard & Poors has downgraded several major U.S. and European banks and concurrently upgraded several Chinese financial institutions. Trapped in its sweeping negative assessment were some of the biggest names in the U.S. banking sector, including Bank of America, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Bank of New York Mellon and Wells Fargo. S&P, however, raised its ratings on Bank of China and China Construction Bank Corporation. Major European banks downgraded include HSBC Holdings PLC and Barclays PLC of the United Kingdom, Banco Santander of Spain, BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, and Credit Agricole of France, Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank of Germany, Credit Suisse and UBS of Switzerland, and the ING Group of the Netherlands. While the shift in credit rating valuations possibly indicates S&Ps contrasting views on the economic prospects of financial institutions in the West and rapid-growth emerging markets such as China and India, the downgrade is likely to rattle markets. Explaining its actions, S&P said it had reviewed its ratings on 37 of the largest financial institutions in the world by applying its new ratings criteria for banks, which were published on November 9, 2011.While it only published a macro list of all 37 institutions reviewed the agency added that it would publish individual research updates on the bank groups identified, including a list of ratings on affiliated entities, as well as the ratings by debt type senior, subordinated, junior subordinated, and preferred stock.

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India to Launch Maiden bid Round for Shale Gas Exploration

India will launch its maiden bid round for exploration of shale gas during the XII Plan (2012-17) with an aim to meet its rising energy needs. The government is planning the first round of shale gas during the XII Plan after assessment of resources is completed. Shale gas or natural gas trapped in sedimentary rocks (shale

RBI Approves Extension of Air India Loan Tenures

Cash-strapped Air India has got a boost with the Reserve Bank of India approving extension of its loan tenures from 10 to 15 years. The decision, which would considerably ease the debt servicing burden of the troubled airline, was taken at a meeting

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formations) below the earths surface is the new focus area in the U.S., Canada and China as an alternative to conventional oil and gas for meeting the growing energy needs. As per available data, six basins Cambay (in Gujarat), Assam-Arakan (in the Northeast), Gondawana (in central India), KG onshore (in Andhra Pradesh), Cauvery onshore and Indo Gangatic basins, hold shale gas potential. Under the current policy, exploration and production of conventional oil and gas and coal bed methane (CBM) is allowed. However, shale gas exploration faces several challenges such as the availability of water and vast tracts of land. 3-4 gallons of water were required per well for hydraulic fracturing. Indias gas demand is likely to rise from 290 million standard cubic metres (mscmd) a day in 2012-13 to 470 mscmd in 2016-17. Against this, domestic supply will increase from 124 mscmd to 220-230 mscmd only. The balance has to be met through either imports or through unconventional energy sources such as shale gas. India has signed an MoU with the U.S. for assessment of shale gas resource and developing policy framework to exploitation of the resource.

because of political interference, need not jeopardise supply to industry/commerce.

DIPP Proposes 26 % FDI in Domestic Airlines

The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) has moved a Cabinet note, proposing 26 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in domestic airlines, which are in crisis and need immediate infusion of funds. The note is contrary to the proposed move by the Civil Aviation Ministry, which has stuck to 24 per cent FDI in domestic carriers. The move comes at a time when several domestic airlines, including Kingfisher, are in complete financial mess and struggling to maintain their day-to-day operations. The Cabinet note has been sent to various ministries for their inputs before being placed before the Union Cabinet. Investor with 26 per cent or more holding is considered strategic, as he can have a say in the policy decision of a corporate entity under the Indian company laws. An investor with 26 per cent support can block a special resolution in the board policy change, the note states. At present, FDI in domestic passenger airlines is allowed up to 49 per cent by overseas entities, other than foreign airlines. Non-resident Indians (NRIs) can invest 100 per cent.

Reforms needed in power sector: Planning Commission

Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia has called for a revision of power tariffs to reflect higher international coal prices, as a large number of power projects, including ultra mega power projects under implementation, have run into serious viability problems. In his summary assessment report to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the power sector issues, which require immediate attention, Mr. Ahluwalia has stated that power plants now under implementation based on imported coal have run into problems because the international coal prices have risen sharply and this aspect was not taken into account when the promoters submitted their tariff bids for the electricity they would supply. The Planning Commission Deputy Chairman further states that there is no easy solution to this problem since the electricity tariff is locked in under the power purchase agreements. On another contentious issue, Planning Commission feels that Coal India should examine the issue of reconsidering the nationalisation policy of coal mining and allow private coal mining. Even if it means amending the Act, it should be done. On introducing open access in the power sector, Planning Commission notes that it is an essential long-term reform in the operationalisation of open access whereby generators of power can sell directly to high-tension consumers while paying the distribution company a wheeling charge plus a cross-subsidy surcharge to cover the fact that tariffs on hightension consumers have a built-in element of cross-subsidy. The main advantage of open access, he states, is that hightension consumers will be able to tie up reliable supply from independent power producers, while paying the cross-subsidy to discoms. In other words, the financial weakness of the discoms,

SAIL-led Consortium Plans $11 b Investment in Afghanistan

The SAIL-led consortium, which has bagged rights for three iron ore mines in Hajigak in Afghanistan, will spend about $11 billion on infrastructure creation, mining and setting up a 6-million tonne steel plant and a 1,000-MW thermal power plant. Establishment of the steel plant, which will be situated about 200 km away from the three Hajigak mines, would depend on the availability of inputs such as coking coal and limestone, which were to be ensured by the Afghan Government. The immediate plan for the consortium is to carry out a geological study of the mines over three years at an investment of $75 million. The cumulative reserves of the three mines are estimated at around 1.28 billion tonnes. Given the restrictions imposed on Indian financial institutions with respect to providing funds to a venture in Afghanistan, a country that falls in the negative list, the consortium has already written to the government seeking sovereign funds.

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Govt. to Sell Entire Stake in Three Sick PSUs

The government has said it has approved to sell its entire stake in three sick PSUs - Scooters India, Tyre Corporation of India and Central Inland Water Transport Corporation - to strategic investors. The government owns 100 per cent equity in Central Inland Water Transport Corporation which is engaged in the transportation by inland waterways. West Bengal-based Tyre Corporation, engaged in manufacturing and marketing of automotive tyres, is also wholly-owned by the government. In Scooters India, the government holds 95.38 per cent stake. Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises Praful

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Patel said that strategic sale in loss-making Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) is taken up on a case-to-case basis, when efforts for their revival fail. The Board for Reconstruction of Public Sector Enterprises (BRPSE) advises the government on the revival and restructuring of sick state-owned companies. The concerned ministries/departments prepare proposals for revival of loss-making companies and refer them to BRPSE for recommendations. During 2009-10, 59 sick PSUs registered losses worth Rs 15,842 crore, Mr. Patel said.

This initiative would assess fulfillment of the environmental, social and governance responsibilities of listed entities. It has been decided to specify a maximum tenure of 12 months for warrants issued along with public/rights issue of securities to avoid the possible misuse. The issuer would be required to provide disclosures about utilisation of funds so raised, both in the offer document as well as on a continuous basis. To make the concept of anchor investors (AIs) more effective, SEBI has decided to prescribe a minimum allotment size of Rs.5 crore and the maximum number of AIs, slab-wise. The concept of anchor investors was introduced by SEBI in June, 2009, as a class of committed investors who can be relied on to anchor an issue of capital in all market conditions, adverse or otherwise. Considering the constraints in disclosure by investee companies regarding funds (such as venture capital funds and the like), which are shown as one of the promoters of such investee company, it has been decided to specify a separate set of disclosures for them.

20 per cent of governments procurement to be done from MSEs belonging to SC/STs

The Central government has finally announced a policy reserving 20 per cent of its purchases for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) run by entrepreneurs belonging to the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes. The new procurement policy will cover 358 items to be purchased by Central ministries, departments and public sector undertakings. The 20 per cent purchase norm will become mandatory after three years. This is in line with the policies that have been pursued for some time by Mukul Wasnik, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment; the final approval came from the Prime Ministers Office. This is as historic a decision as the provision of reservation in public employment, education and politics. The governments initiative on procurement, if accepted by the private sector on a wider scale, has the potential to make growth pro-poor and inclusive.

OECD Report: Perspectives on Global Development in 2012

A recent report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development has suggested that while Indias growth record in recent years was unprecedented, a focus on labour markets and agricultural growth could spur the country to a better poverty alleviation record. The report, Perspectives on Global Development in 2012: Social Cohesion in Shifting World noted that China stands out for its remarkable rise in its private and public savings rate, from 33.3 and 5.7 per cent of GDP in 1992 respectively, to 44.7 and 6.2 per cent in 2008. However the report also said China is not alone, in particular adding that India possesses high and rising levels of national savings, which include rapidly growing corporate savings. Suggesting that these funds could be channelled into areas such as poverty alleviation the OECD report added, Higher savings endow converging countries with a greater capacity to confront the major challenges of investment in human and physical infrastructure. The study delved deep not only into the economic dimensions of development but social aspects too. For example, touching upon the relevance of Indias caste system on development outcomes, the study quoted samples from several Indian rural villages showing that Low-caste households living in low-caste dominated villages have a higher income than those in villages dominated by a high caste. The OECD also praised Indias overall development model and drew attention to the structural factors underlying its recent decades of rapid economic growth. In its report the OECD said, With sustained high growth over several decades the depth of structural change in large Asian economies such as India is remarkable and without historical precedent. Citing the rapid rise in labour productivity as a key factor

IDFC Launches Tranche-1 Infrastructure Bonds

Infrastructure Development Finance Company Ltd. (IDFC) has announced its public issue of Tranche-1 tax-saving long-term infrastructure bonds. These bonds had been classified as long term infrastructure bonds as per the terms of Sec. 80CCF of the Income-tax Act. The Tranche-1 bonds, having a face value of Rs.5,000 each, would be issued in two series one with 9 per cent interest rate payable annually and the other with 9 per cent interest compounded annually. The bonds would be issued in demat and physical forms and would be listed on the stock exchanges. They would have a statutory lock-in period of five years from the date of allotment. The funds mobilised through the issue would be utilised towards infrastructure lending. The bonds would be issued in one or more tranches not exceeding Rs.5,000 crore for fiscal 2011-12. In fiscal 2010-11, the company raised Rs.1,451crore.

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SEBI Fixes Rs.5 crore Floor for Anchor Investors

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has decided to mandate listed entities to submit business responsibility reports, as a part of their annual reports, describing measures taken by them along the key principles enunciated in the National voluntary guidelines on social, environmental and economic responsibilities of business, framed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). To start with, the requirement will be applicable to top 100 companies in terms of market capitalisation and would be extended to other companies in a phased manner, said SEBI.

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driving this growth the study noted that in the case of India structural transformation in labour markets had made the services sector a key source of employment unlike China, where manufacturing appeared to dominate. While this labour reallocation in India had resulted in an average annual productivity improvement of 0.9 per cent, the OECD said, Labour has also moved from formal to informal employment, which offsets the positive impact on productivity. Further in comparative terms China appeared to have better realised the link between poverty alleviation and agricultural growth, while Indias modest achievements in poverty reduction may be associated with the relatively poor performance of its agricultural sector, the report noted.

include financing affordable housing and education needs of low income households. The RBI report is optimistic about the future. There are enough opportunities to grow but banks will have to reckon with several key challenges. Globalisation, deregulation and diversification and consolidation of the financial system are all unstoppable forces, which will make banking more complex as well as riskier. The banking sector has become intricately linked to financial markets and, hence, more vulnerable to financial market stress. Over the medium-term, to take full advantage of the opportunities while simultaneously addressing the new challenges, the process of institutional strengthening assumes critical importance. Banks need to be guided by four principles efficiency, stability, transparency and inclusion. Over the long-term, they need to focus on growth through inclusion, innovation and diversification while complying with domestic regulations and internalising international best practices.

Trend and Progress of Banking Report: RBI

One of the statutory publications of the Reserve Bank of India, the Trend and Progress of Banking, was released on November 14. The report covers the period July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Giving a birds eye view of the banking in India, the report notes that having acquitted themselves creditably during the global financial crisis, domestic banks have continued to manage growth with resilience during 2010-11, with ample reserves of capital and liquidity, improved performance in profitability and asset quality. However, the report noted that banking sector should not become passive in their pursuit as the challenges are galore. Firstly, the prevailing interest rate environment and their disproportionately large exposures to certain interest rate sensitive sectors such as real estate pose significant risks even in the near term. Secondly, extensive studies conducted by the RBI, using sophisticated techniques, reveal a high degree of interconnectedness among Indian banks. This can make the system vulnerable in the event of failure of one or more banks depending on the degree of interaction. Though regulatory curbs on interbank exposures have helped contained the risks but if non-banks are included in the analysis, the risks become greater. Thirdly, Management of asset quality is a key task. Despite gross NPAs (non-performing assets) declining steadily from 15.70 per cent in end March, 1977, to 2.25 per cent in March, 2011, there are areas of concern. These includes aggressive lending during the high growth phase, recovery not keeping pace with slippages and fast changing interest rate environment have made these slippages in asset quality more real. Fourthly, to sustain high and inclusive growth of recent times, there is a need to raise the level of domestic savings and channel these savings into investment. If pursued effectively, financial inclusion will provide banks accessible to sizable low cost funds as also opportunities for lending to the small volume segment. Lastly, a major challenge of the next decade is financing millions in the unorganised sector, self-employed in the micro and small business sector, small and marginal farmers, as also rural share-croppers in the agricultural sector. Other challenges

Inequality rises in India: OECD

India has become less equal over time and earnings inequality in the country has increased significantly since the early 1990s, Paris-based think tank OECD noted. The observations are a part of OECDs report focusing on inequality patterns and related policy challenges in the emerging economies of India, China, Argentina, Brazil, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) is a 34-member grouping of mostly advanced nations, that together account for over 60 per cent of global output. According to the OECD, Brazil, Indonesia and, on some indicators, Argentina have recorded significant progress in reducing inequality over the past 20 years. By contrast, China, India, the Russian Federation and South Africa have all become less equal over time. Going by the report, India has the highest headcount poverty rate of the seven countries with about 42 per cent of its population still living on less than USD 1.25 per day. During the two decades to 2008, the fall in the extent of absolute poverty was particularly dramatic for Brazil, China and Indonesia, while India and South Africa recorded more modest reductions. Further, OECD noted that bringing down inequality as well as promoting better jobs in these nations would require a multipronged approach including better incentives for more formal employment and preparation to finance higher social spending in the future. In the OECD region, the report said the gap between rich and poor in member nations has reached its highest level for over 30 years. The average income of the richest 10 per cent is now about nine times that of the poorest 10 per cent across the OECD.

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Union Cabinet Approves Companies Bill, 2011

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The Union Cabinet has approved the Companies Bill, 2011, a move that will help improve efficiency and increase accountability of the corporate sector. The Bill is likely to be tabled in the ongoing winter session. Once passed, the new Act will update the company law in line with the best global practices and introduce new ideas such as corporate social responsibility (CSR), class action suits and a fixed term for independent directors. The Bill also proposes to tighten laws for raising money from the public besides prohibiting any insider trading by company directors or key managerial personnel by treating such activities as a criminal offence. It will also make mandatory for companies to earmark 2 per cent of their average profit of the preceding three years for CSR activities and make a disclosure to shareholders about the policy adopted in the process. The Bill, which will replace the decades old Act, has already been vetted by the Parliamentary Standing Committee of Finance and also by various ministries concerned. The Bill was originally introduced in Lok Sabha in 2008, but lapsed because of change of government. It was reintroduced in August 2009.

Around 17-20 per cent growth was expected in pharma exports this year with major emphasis on increasing them to China. The Union Government has constituted a sub-committee headed by Joint Secretary to identify ways for enhancing the exports, particularly, the generics, to China. At present pharma exports to China were insignificant as Indian companies were finding registration in that country too expensive and timeconsuming. However the Chinese Government had assured the Indian authorities that they would encourage Indian generics.

IOC Seeks Extension of Tax Holiday for Paradip Refineries

State-owned Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has sought a two-year extension of tax breaks available for refineries so that its delayed Rs 29,777 crore Paradip refinery can avail of the benefit. Exemption or holiday, under section 80IB(9) of Income Tax Act, from payment of income tax on revenues earned from refining of crude oil is available to units that are commissioned by March 2012. This deadline was set keeping in mind the commissioning schedule given by IOC for its 15 million tons a year Paradip refinery in Orissa, official sources said. However, Paradip refinery is running way behind that schedule because of law and order problems and issues related to land acquisition and is now expected to be commissioned in September 2013. IOC made the request for extension of tax holiday to the oil ministry, which in turn has forwarded the same to the finance ministry for consideration. The Paradip refinery is being configured to process the toughest, heaviest and dirtiest crudes, which are cheaper than the cleaner and more easily processed varieties. The refinery will have a Nelson Complexity Index of 13, the highest in the world.

Bills on CWC and Exim Bank introduced

A bill seeking to make the mini-ratna company Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) an independent body without the government being a guarantor was introduced in the Lok Sabha. The CWC has consistently paid dividend to the government since its inception in 1957 and its net worth has been positive 2003 onwards. Also, the Corporation has not taken any loan from the Central government and is also not dependent on budgetary support, it has said. The CWC is operating 476 warehouses across the country with a storage capacity of 10.18 million tonnes providing warehousing services for a wide range of agricultural and industrial products. The government also introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to increase the authorised capital of Export Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) from Rs.2,000 crore to Rs.10,000 crore. The proposed amendment to the Exim Bank Act 1981 will allow the government to infuse the capital in the bank and help the lender expand its funding activities for the export sector. The Exim Bank was set up in 1981 with an authorized capital of Rs.500 crore. Its capital was gradually increased to Rs.2,000 crore in 2007. The amendment also seeks to authorize the Centre to increase its capital in future through an executive order.

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Rs.800 crore Extra Interest Subsidy for Exporters

The Central Government has approved an additional Rs.800crore for extending interest subsidy to exporters till March 2012 in the backdrop of slowdown in major global markets in Europe and the U.S. The scheme under which 2 per cent interest subvention is given to commercial banks for their concessional lending to exporters has been extended for the current fiscal year for handicrafts, handlooms, carpets and small and medium enterprises (SME) sectors. The approval was given by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).

CCEA Approves Proposal for Additional Rs 2000 crore for SMEs

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA, has approved a proposal for additional funds under the interest subsidy scheme to the tune of over 2000 crore rupees. This scheme has been extended for the small and medium enterprises till March next year. It also covers handicrafts, handloom and carpet sector. An official release issued in New Delhi says, 1654 crore rupees have been released by the Reserve Bank of India as the interest subsidy claims so far.

Pharmaceutical Sector to have its Own Brand

The Indian pharma sector will soon carry its own brand in the international market with the Government planning to come out with a pharma brand India with a logo even as it seeks to step up exports to China. The government was working in this direction and the logo for it was being developed. Pharmexcil would be for pharmaceutical as Nasscom is for IT.

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ScIENcE SPEctRum...

GlASS HAlf full OR HAlf EmPty- ANAlySING DuRbAN SummIt

While governments avoided disaster in Durban, they by no means responded adequately to the mounting threat of climate change, said Alden Meyer, director of policy at the Union of Concerned Scientists. A primary focus of the conference was to secure a global climate agreement as the Kyoto Protocols first commitment period (20082012) is about to end. It was also expected to focus on finalising at least some of the Cancun Agreements, reached at the 2010 Conference, such as co-operation on clean technology, as well as forest protection, adaptation to climate impacts, and finance - the promised transfer of funds from rich countries to poor in order to help them protect forests, adapt to climate impacts, and green their economies. While the official result was clearthe 190 nations at the meet agreed to develop a new protocol, another legal instrument or agreed outcome with legal force. The details are to be finalised by 2015, and all countries would have to start action by 2020. The Kyoto Protocol, which was to expire in 2012, was extended by another five years. A green climate fund will be set up for mitigation measures though finance will be a clear challenge, given the global recession, there were and still are two opposing interpretations of what the Durban package implies. The responses to the signing of the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action have split along predictably binary lines. Politicians, diplomats and some business leaders have spun the deal as a historic breakthrough, while acknowledging that there is a long way to go to ensure emissions peak. Meanwhile, world-weary green NGOs have slammed the summit as a soul-destroying diplomatic Groundhog Day that has singularly failed to deliver the aggressive policy measures that are required, while also acknowledging that some modest progress was made. Whether the deal is better off or not depends on whether you prefer your glass half full or half empty. A number of analysts think its a disaster because according to the mainstream projections, the emission pledges countries have made so far will take humanity to a world 4C warmer on average than in pre-industrial times by the end of the century. And thats an average; some places could see twice that. Equally, other analysts argue that Durban and its Platform are a triumph, because they give governments a tool with which to adjust direction, setting course for a 2C world. But remember: all we have is an agreement to negotiate an instrument with legal force. It is tempting to measure the success of the successive Copenhagen, Cancun and Durban Agreements against the ambition displayed in their pledges to cut greenhouse gas emissions. But this is overly simplistic. Any eventual international treaty that contains commitments, legally binding or otherwise, to deliver deep cuts in emissions will only represent a statement of intention. Its the negotiations on the new instrument that will determine ultimately whether the biosphere wins or loses from Durban, not Durban itself. The real measure of success for international climate talks in general, and the Durban Summit in particular, is whether they drive the response to climate change in terms of increased investment in emission reduction and adaptation measures, and whether they address the carbon leakage that could see carbon intensive businesses from low carbon economies relocate to those regions not taking action to curb emissions. The aim of the COP summits should not be to simply set emission reduction targets that the international community would then struggle to enforce, but to provide the policy direction and certainty necessary to drive global corporate investment in the technology and infrastructure necessary to cut emissions.

Green climate fund

Another positive that came out of the Durban summit was in the form of some progress made in terms of agreeing a fund to help poor countries combat climate change, reform of the UNs carbon trading platform, and financing to protect forests. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was agreed at the Copenhagen summit two years ago as a means of directing $100bn of aid per year to developing countries, with rich countries providing a further $30bn of fast-start finance in the interim. Talks on the GCF were complicated by concerns over the balance of public and private financing, and it initially looked to be at risk when the Saudis and US refused to adopt a draft text establishing the structure of the fund. However, late-night negotiations secured the future of the fund, which countries will begin contributing to next year. The Green Climate Fund, is a centerpiece adaptation program for vulnerable countries. Designed as a way for developed nations to assist poor countries hard hit by climate change, the fund will cover the costs of adaptation at the level of $100 billion a year by 2020. Delegates also agreed to kick-start

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a technology transfer mechanism, and to establish a 16-strong Adaptation Committee in 2012, designed to improve the co-ordination of adaptation actions across the globe. However, green groups were quick to warn that the deal lacked sufficient ambition and offers little clarity as to how the promised new legal agreement will work. The deal centered on a last minute compromise between the EU, India, and China on the wording of the proposed roadmap towards a new treaty. Critics said the wording of the new text remained too vague and that diplomats had made little progress towards delivering the scale of emission cuts required. They also warned that any new treaty enacted in 2020 would come into effect after global emissions should have peaked to stand a chance of limiting temperature rises to two degrees Centigrade.

individual countries, representing their easiest and cheapest options. The U.S. and the BASIC (Brazil, South Africa, India and China) group collusively engineered this shift at Copenhagen in 2009 to avoid taking on enforceable and ambitious obligations, and then imposed the socalled Copenhagen Accord upon more than 100 countries. The BASIC bloc is right in holding that the primary responsibility for climate remediation lies with the North, but mistaken in refusing a distinction between itself and the rest of the developing world. The truth is that BASICs emissions are rising much faster than the worlds. Last year, for instance, Chinas emissions rose 10 per cent over 2009, and Indias 9 per cent, well above the worlds 6 per cent. Between 1990 and 2009, according to IEA estimates, global CO2 emissions from fuel combustion rose by 37.2 per cent, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries by 8.2 per cent and the nonOECD groups by 69.3 per cent. But Indias emissions increased by 175.9 per cent and Chinas by 196.8 per cent. Brazils emissions grew slightly slower, by 68.4 per cent, and South Africas by 53.7 per cent. As UNFCCC executive secretary Christiana Figueres summed it up in a recent speech: The deep North-South divide over historical responsibility still has more weight than the forward looking approach of respective capabilities.

challenges Ahead
Numerous challenges remain, however, not least the urgent need to identify mechanisms for financing the new Green Fund and deliver more ambitious emissions reduction commitments from all nations at a time when the US, EU, India and China remain fiercely divided on the scale of the cuts they will accept. The dreadful legacy of Copenhagen and Cancun continued in Durban too. Its most toxic feature was the shift from binding emissions reduction targets, based on science and equity in particular, the common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) principle of the Climate Convention to arbitrary, unambitious, and even paltry, pledges by

agreement, fearing that it would effectively cramp growth. It has argued that there is a need to differentiate between past polluters (the Annex 1 industrialised nations of the Kyoto Protocol) and economies on a path of dramatic growth, which need to pull hundreds of millions of people out of the poverty trap, and that they would thus require incentives to veer from a carbonheavy path. However, that historical responsibility argument competes with other considerations, namely, the urgent need to shield the most vulnerable small nations from the worst impacts of climate change, which require a concerted effort to stop temperature from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial levels. The impasse between the IndiaChina-Brazil bloc and the US, which demands symmetrical obligations from them, has been excruciating and Durban managed to extract some slender common ground. The EU aligned itself with the Alliance of Small Island States, exerting greater pressure on nations like India and China. Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan scored by inserting the word equity into the long-term cooperation agreement, and holding out for a less constraining set of words. The modified terms, seeking an outcome with legal force, allow India greater latitude to design its own response even if it acknowledges the way ahead will involve concrete cuts. Though the specifics will have to be worked out in the near future, at least the Durban deal shines a light on the road ahead for India, which can then encourage technological and business innovation.

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India in Durban
India has been wary of a legally binding

fact-file
The united Nations framework convention on climate change (uNfccc or fccc) is an international environmental treaty produced at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), informally known as the Earth Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro from June 3 to 14, 1992. The objective of the treaty was to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. The treaty itself set no mandatory limits on greenhouse gas emissions for individual countries and contains no enforcement mechanisms. In that sense, the treaty is considered legally non-binding. Instead, the treaty provides for updates (called protocols) that would set mandatory emission limits. The principal update was the Kyoto Protocol, which has become much better known than the UNFCCC itself.

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The major feature of the Kyoto Protocol is that it sets binding targets for 37 industrialized countries and the European community for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions .These amount to an average of five per cent against 1990 levels over the five-year period 2008-2012. The major distinction between the Protocol and the Convention is that while the Convention encouraged industrialised countries to stabilize GHG emissions, the Protocol commits them to do so. Recognizing that developed countries are principally responsible for the current high levels of GHG emissions in the atmosphere as a result of more than 150 years of industrial activity, the Protocol places a heavier burden on developed nations under the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, on 11 December 1997 and entered into force on 16 February 2005. The detailed rules for the implementation of the Protocol were adopted at COP 7 in Marrakesh in 2001, and are called the Marrakesh Accords. The UNFCCC was opened for signature on May 9, 1992, and entered into force on March 21, 1994. As of May 2011, UNFCCC has 194 parties. One of its first tasks was to establish national greenhouse gas inventories of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals, which were used to create the 1990 benchmark levels for accession of Annex I countries to the Kyoto Protocol and for the commitment of those countries to GHG reductions. Updated inventories must be regularly submitted by Annex I countries. Parties to UNFCCC are classified as: Annex I countries industrialized countries and economies in transition Annex II countries developed countries which pay for costs of developing countries Non Annex I countries - Developing countries.

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The UNFCCC is also the name of the United Nations Secretariat charged with supporting the operation of the Convention, with offices in Haus Carstanjen, Bonn, Germany. From 2006 to 2010 the head of the secretariat was Yvo de Boer; on May 17, 2010 his successor, Christiana Figueres from Costa Rica has been named. The Secretariat, augmented through the parallel efforts of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), aims to gain consensus through meetings and the discussion of various strategies. The parties to the convention have met annually from 1995 in Conferences of the Parties (COP) to assess progress in dealing with climate change. In 1997, the Kyoto Protocol was concluded and established legally binding obligations for developed countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. 2009 cOP 15/mOP 5, copenhagen, Denmark: The overall goal for the COP 15/MOP 5 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Denmark was to establish an ambitious global climate agreement for the period from 2012 when the first commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol expires. However, on November 14, 2009, the New York Times announced that President Obama and other world leaders have decided to put off the difficult task of reaching a climate change agreement... agreeing instead to make it the mission of the Copenhagen conference to reach a less specific politically binding agreement that would punt the most difficult issues into the future. The conference did not achieve a binding agreement for long-term action. A 13-paragraph political accord was negotiated by approximately 25 parties including US and China, but it was only noted by the COP as it is considered an external document, not negotiated within the UNFCCC process. the 2010 united Nations climate change conference was held in cancn, mexico, from 29 November to 10 December 2010. The outcome of the summit was an agreement adopted by the states parties that called for a large Green Climate Fund, and a Climate Technology Centre and network. It looked forward to a second commitment period for the Kyoto Protocol. 2012 cOP 18/mOP 8, Qatar: Qatar will be the host of COP 18 which will take place from 26 November to 7 December 2012.

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NExt StoP MARS on board CURIoSItY

NASAs six-wheeled, super sized rover, one-armed wonder, Curiosity (mars science laboratory), zoomed towards Mars on an 8-month, 354 million-mile (570 million-kilometre) journey , the biggest, best equipped robot ever sent to explore another planet, from Cape Canaveral by Atlas V rocket. It will reach Mars next summer and use its jackhammer drill, rock-zapping laser machine and other devices to search for evidence that Earths next-door neighbour might once have been home to the tiniest forms of life. The world has launched more than three dozen missions to the ever-alluring Mars, which is more like Earth than the other solar-system planets but fewer than half of those quests have succeeded. Sometimes ago, a Russian spacecraft ended up stuck in orbit around Earth, en route to the Martian moon Phobos. The 1-ton Curiosity- 10 feet long, 9 feet wide and 7 feet tall at its mast is a mobile, nuclear-powered laboratory holding 10 scientific instruments that will sample Martian soil and rocks, and with unprecedented skill and analyze them right on the spot. Its as big as a car. Curiositys 7-foot arm has a jackhammer on the end to drill into the Martian red rock, and the 7-foot mast on the rover is topped with high-definition and laser cameras. Its an enormous mission and equivalent of three missions. The primary goal of the $2.5 billion mission is to see whether cold, dry, barren Mars might have been hospitable for microbial life once upon a time or might even still be conducive to life. No actual life detectors are on board, rather, the instruments will hunt for organic compounds. With Mars the ultimate goal for astronauts, NASA will use Curiosity to measure radiation of the red planet. The rover also has a weather station on board that will provide temperature, wind and humidity readings; a computer software appliance with daily weather updates is planned. The rover, equipped with a suite of 10 scientific instruments, is the most sophisticated explorer sent to another planet. No previous Martian rover has been so sophisticated. Curiosity will spend a minimum of two years roaming around Gale Crater, chosen from among more than 50 potential landing sites because its so rich in minerals. According to scientists if there is any place on Mars that might have been ripe for life, it may well be there. The experiments it will carry out are not intended to detect active processes that would signify present-day biological metabolism nor would it try to image micro-organisms or their fossil remains. Rather, its task will be to find out if conditions favourable for life existed on the planet. It will seek additional evidence of water and how the Martian climate might have changed over time. A layered mountain at the centre of the crater, with minerals that form in water, might provide a wealth of information about such changes. The rover will also look for organic molecules, a further sign that life could have arisen there. It will examine whether the traces of methane found in the atmosphere could have a biological origin. In addition, it will try to establish the various energy sources that life forms could utilise. Down the road, what scientists would really like is a mission to bring back Martian soil and rock samples for detailed analysis in the lab. But such a mission will be costly and stands little chance of being funded any time soon. So when it comes to understanding possibilities for life on Mars, its over to Curiosity and the science it can do. This is the third astronomical mission to be launched from Cape Canaveral by NASA since the retirement of the venerable space shuttle fleet this summer. The Juno probe is en route to Jupiter, and twin spacecraft named Grail

will arrive at Earths moon on New Year eve.

Curiosity: An Advanced Science Lab:

Many of the instruments on board are first of their kind and will help in fulfilling the main objective of finding out if the conditions on Mars ever favoured the existence of life. It has very sophisticated instruments like the Chemistry and Camera (ChemCam). The laser in ChemCam can vaporise thin layers of material of rocks and identify the chemical composition. The telescope in ChemCam will register the flash of glowing plasma created by the vaporised material and record the colours of light. The colours, which are nothing but spectral signatures, will be analysed by a spectrometer to find out the composition. Apart from the chemical composition, the Mars Science Laboratory is equipped to find out the mineralogy of samples. The Chemistry and Mineralogy (ChemMin) instrument uses X-ray diffraction to determine the mineralogy of the samples, a standard tool used by scientists. This is the first time that this instrument is ever being sent to another planet.

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Curiosity also has the ability to drill and scoop samples from the Mars surface and conduct analysis using spectroscopy inside the spacecraft. But any scientist would know that the success of studying samples taken for analysis depends on how well the sampling is done. Random selection of sampling sites or samples will have no meaning, as it may not reveal everything, and at times be completely misleading. Field geologists often rely on visual inspection of the study area for different parameters like rock types, layering and possible minerals before deciding on the area to be sampled and the kind and number of samples to be taken. If the samples to be studied are of loose sand or soil, the texture, grain size etc are looked at before collecting the samples. This is where Curiosity scores over its predecessors. The ChemCam is equipped with a telescope to image the small craters that the laser has made by vapourising the selected area. The message relayed to scientists here will help them in determining the target areas in the near vicinity to be sampled next. Once the area has been chosen based on the image provided by ChemCam, MAHLI (Mars Hand Lens Imager) comes into the picture. MAHLI is the best instrument that mimics a handheld lens carried by field geologists. Scientists will be able to have a close-up view of the structures and textures of both rocks and minerals. While this will provide ample information about Mars, it will greatly help in deciding if samples need to taken for further analysis. As the American Astronomical Society states, Curiosity is both a Mars Science Laboratory and a geologist married into one. Early telescopic observations revealed colour changes on the surface which were originally attributed to seasonal vegetation as well as apparent linear features which were ascribed to intelligent design. These early and erroneous interpretations led to widespread public interest in Mars. Further telescopic observations found Mars two moons - Phobos and Deimos, the polar ice caps and the feature now known as

Olympus Mons, the solar systems tallest mountain. These discoveries gave further interest in the study and exploration of the red planet. Mars is a rocky planet, like Earth, that was formed around the same time, yet with only half the diameter of Earth, and a far thinner atmosphere. It has a cold and desert-like surface. It is notable, however, that although the planet has only one quarter of the surface area of the Earth, it has about the same land area.

history of Mars as well as a preparation for a possible human mission to Mars. The questions raised by the scientific community are expected to not only give a better appreciation of the red planet but also yield further insight into the past, and possible future, of Earth. The exploration of Mars has come at a considerable financial cost with roughly two-thirds of all spacecraft destined for Mars failing before completing their missions, with some failing before they even began. Such a high failure rate can be attributed to the complexity and large number of variables involved in an interplanetary journey, and has led researchers to jokingly speak of The Great Galactic Ghoul which subsists on a diet of Mars probes. This phenomenon is also informally known as the Mars Curse. NASAs exploration of Mars began with the 1976 landing of the Viking spacecraft and has continued with, most recently, the twin rovers known as Spirit and Opportunity that began tooling around on the Martian surface in 2004. Spirit finally died last year, but Opportunity is still working. In October 2009, an agreement was signed between United States space

Mars : A Fascination For the Scientists

Mars has long been the subject of human fascination. At the turn of the last century, there were fanciful ideas of a sophisticated Martian civilisation capable of digging vast systems of canals. The exploration of Mars has been an important part of the space exploration programs of the Soviet Union, the United States, Europe, and Japan. Dozens of robotic spacecraft, including orbiters, landers, and rovers, have been launched toward Mars since the 1960s. These missions were aimed at gathering data about current conditions and answering questions about the

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Future Missions to Mars

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agency, NASA, and Europes space agency, ESA in order to increase cooperation and expand collective capabilities, resources and expertise to continue the exploration of Mars; this agreement is named the Mars Exploration Joint Initiative (MEJI).

window. Mariner 9 successfully entered orbit about Mars, the first spacecraft ever to do so, after the launch time failure of its sister ship, Mariner 8. Viking program: The Viking Orbiters caused a revolution in our ideas about water on Mars. Huge river valleys were found in many areas. They showed that floods of water carved deep valleys, eroded grooves into bedrock, and travelled thousands of kilometres. Surface mission: The Soviet Union intended to beat the USA by sending landers first in the Mars probe program M-69 in 1969, but both probes of the new heavy 5-ton design, Mars 1969A and Mars 1969B, failed at launch. The first probes to impact and land on Mars were the Soviet Unions Mars 2 and Mars 3, as part of the Mars probe program M-71 in 1971. Each carried a lander. The Mars 2 lander crashed; Mars 3 was the first successful lander but stopped transmitting data and images from the surface after 15 seconds of operation. Mars 6 and Mars 7 landers on the next Soviet Mars probe program M-73 failed their missions in 1974; the first impacted on the surface, while the second missed the planet. The first landers to successfully accomplish their missions were the American Viking 1 and Viking 2 in 1976. The majority of the failed missions occurred in the early years of space exploration and were part of the Soviet and later Russian Mars probe program that suffered several technical difficulties. Modern missions have an improved success rate; however, the challenge, complexity and length of the missions make it inevitable that failures will occur. The U.S. NASA Mars exploration program has had a somewhat better record of success in Mars exploration, achieving success in 13 out of 20 missions launched (a 65% success rate), and succeeding in

six out of seven (an 86% success rate) lander missions. Red Dragon Mars Mission: As of July 2011, NASA Ames Research Centre is developing a concept for a low-cost Mars mission that would utilize a SpaceX Falcon Heavy as the launch vehicle and trans-Martian injection vehicle, and the Dragon capsule to enter the Martian atmosphere. The concept would be proposed for funding in 2012/2013 as a NASA Discovery mission, for launch in 2018 and arrival at Mars several months later. The science objectives of the mission would be to look for evidence of life detecting molecules that are proof of life, like DNA orperchlorate reductase, proof of life through biomolecules. Red Dragon would drill 3.3 feet (1.0 m) or so underground, in an effort to sample reservoirs of water ice known to lurk under the red dirt. The mission cost is projected to be less than US$425,000,000, not including the launch cost. Mars 500 Mission: A year-and-a-half isolation experiment that had been conducted to simulate a return flight to Mars ended very soon in the car park of a drab scientific institute in Moscow where it had started. The six volunteers finally got to see daylight for the first time in 520 days as the hatch on the mens mock spaceship was finally opened. The idea behind the project was to study the psychological and physical effects of long-haul space flight on human beings in anticipation of a real mission to Mars. The all-male crew, which comprised of three Russians, a Frenchman, an Italian-Colombian, and a Chinese man, agreed to be locked inside a giant wood-panelled tin can in order to simulate a return flight to the Red Planet. More than 30 cameras were observing the occurrences within the tubular container -- save for one private chamber measuring 3 square metres -- from a control room at the Russian Institute for Biomedical Problems (IBMP) in Moscow.

Manned mission to Mars:

Many people have long advocated a manned mission to Mars as the next logical step for a manned space program after lunar exploration. Aside from the prestige such a mission would bring, advocates argue that humans would easily be able to outperform robotic explorers, justifying the expense. Various Aerospace engineers are the main proponents of such missions. Some critics contend, however, that robots can perform better than humans at a fraction of the expense. If life exists on Mars, a manned mission could contaminate it by introducing earthly microbes, so robotic exploration would be preferable.

Important Early Flyby Probes and orbiters to Mars:

USSR was the first nation to start research on Mars exploration. The Mars 1M was the first Soviet unmanned spacecraft interplanetary exploration program, which consisted of two flyby probes launched towards Mars in October 1960, Mars 1960A and Mars 1960B (also known as Korabl 4 and Korabl 5 respectively). Mariner program: In 1964, NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory made two attempts at reaching Mars. Mariner 3 hand Mariner 4 were identical spacecraft designed to carry out the first flybys of Mars. Mariner 3 was launched on November 5, 1964, but it failed to reach Mars. Three weeks later, on November 28, 1964, Mariner 4 was launched successfully on a 7-month voyage to the red planet. NASA continued the Mariner program with another pair of Mars flyby probes, Mariner 6 and 7, at the next launch

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Science News...
Strategic Forces Command Test Fires Agni
The Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Army has successfully fired an Agni-I missile from the Wheeler Island, off Odisha coast to test the Commands readiness to launch ballistic missiles carrying nuclear warheads. The Agni-I, indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is already in the Armys arsenal. This was the fifth success in a row when a series of missiles were launched from September from the Wheeler Island. The flights included Shourya, Prithvi-II and Agni-II missiles in the last week of September and Agni-IV on November 15. The DRDO developed all these missiles. The DRDO laboratories that took part in designing and developing these missiles were Advanced Systems Laboratory, Research Centre, Imarat and the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), all situated in Hyderabad. The Agni-I is 15 metres tall and weighs 12 tonnes. It is a single-stage vehicle powered by solid propellants and can carry a one-tonne nuclear warhead. Its diameter is one metre. The missile can target areas 700 km away. areas, especially multi-dwelling units, the large data carrying capability is important for Indian villages too where prevailing low literacy levels will necessitate information with greater graphic and audio content for better dissemination. It will give a boost to broadband connectivity across India. Besides, voice telephony, high speed Internet access and IPTV, the C-DOT GPON has provision to carry cable TV signal too, all on a single optical fibre. Another important advantage of GPON is that it can carry information from a central office to subscribers up to 60 km away without needing any intermediate repeaters thus doing away with the requirement of power, shelter and upkeep services at the intermediate locations. The technology is well-suited for the Indian environment. Pointing out that the GPON technology has been tested, validated, field-evaluated and made operational in BSNLs network in Ajmer (Rajasthan), Minister of State Telecommunication, Sachin Pilot said it will help fulfill our requirements of major national programmes like the National Optical Fibre Network and the State Wide Area Network. Besides taking care of our needs in defence, railways and other strategic sectors, the technology can also be used for providing broadband connectivity in rural and remote areas, Mr. Pilot said.

Names Proposed for New Elements

Scientists have put forward their suggested names for the newest additions to the Periodic Table. If the names are accepted, element 114 will become Flerovium (Fl) in honour of the physicist Georgiy Flerov. While element 116 will become Livermorium (Lv), after the Californian laboratory where it was discovered. The tables governing body will officially endorse the names in five months time; 10 years after the elements were discovered. The newest elements were among a handful of elements put forward for inclusion in the table in recent years. They were accredited in June this year after a three year review by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) and the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP). The other putative heavy elements, 113, 115, and 118, are still under review. IUPAC will officially accept the proposed names after giving the public time to comment on the discovers choice.

India Loses Ground in Supercomputing

Indias presence in a reputed global list of the worlds fastest 500 supercomputers has been dwindling in recent years, with just two from the country finding a place in the latest list released in November. The annual TOP 500 list, updated in June and November, ranks the supercomputers based on their speed. In the list that is dominated by the United States, China, Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany and France, India has mostly been relegated to the background in recent years. The two supercomputers from India belong to Tatas Computational Research Laboratories and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology. In comparison, four Indian systems found a place in the November 2010 list: in addition to the two already mentioned, those of the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and the Indian government made it to the top 500. Though the Indian Space Research Organisation had unveiled a supercomputer in May, said to be Indias fastest in terms of theoretical peak performance, it has not been featured in the list, owing to a technicality. It was in 2006 that the maximum number of supercomputers from India made to the list 11 in June and 10 in November. Then, India ranked sixth in terms of supercomputing power; this November, it was placed fifth from the bottom in a list of 27 countries. Indias decline may mean that the kind of investments others, especially the Asian countries, are making in high performance computing (HPC) is not made in the country. HPC plays an important role in exploring challenging problems requiring huge volumes of computation and data in

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Seven Firms Get C-DoT Knowhow

In a move that would give the much-needed push to broadband penetration in the country, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT) has transferred indigenously-developed Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) technology to seven telecom equipment manufacturers, including private players. The GPON technology is a pivotal component required for broadband connectivity over optical fibre. The cost-effective GPON will prove to be a game-changer technology for India. It can be used to provide triple play (voice, video and data). The present GPON standards specify 2.5 Gbps (Gigabit per second) downstream and 1.25 Gbps upstream data capability to customer premise. Apart from urban

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such domains as climate modelling, bioinformatics, cosmology and molecular modeling. In the world of supercomputing, power is associated with the number of calculations that could be performed a second by a machine. A teraflop equals one trillion floating point operations a second, and a petaflop, a 1000 trillion floating point operations a second. The K Computer in Japans RIKEN Advanced Institute for Computational Science, Kobe, with a speed of 10.5 petaflops, has been ranked first in the November list. In comparison, the Tata supercomputer, ranked 85th, has a maximum computational speed of 132.8 teraflops.

matter of extensive study and yet there is little known and a lot to be discovered about the cosmos. One such phenomenon was the passing of the asteroid 2005 YU55 on November 8 this year. It created quite a stir among astronomers and scientists across the world and offered a unique opportunity after 1976 to study an asteroid so profoundly. Asteroids are metallic or rocky materials without any atmosphere that orbit the Sun. Most of the asteroids are found between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter which constitutes the asteroid belt. It is believed that asteroids could not form into a planet sized body during the formation of the Solar System 4.6 billion years ago due to the gravitational influence of Jupiter. Classified as minor planets they vary in size from 950 kilometers in diameter (Ceres, the largest asteroid) to the size of a pebble. They are either carbon rich, stony or metallic in composition and accordingly categorised as C-type, S-type and M-type respectively. Techniques such as earth-based remote sensing and laboratory analysis of meteorites have been helpful in finding the composition of asteroids over 75 percent of which fall in the C-type category, adds Mr. N. Raghunandan Kumar, General Secretary, Planetary Society of India. Asteroid 2005 YU55s crossing path which was even closer to that of the moons orbit of the earth was a rare celestial event. Discovered by Robert McMillan on December 2005, the asteroid is primarily categorised as C-type. It measured around 400 metres and weighed 55 million tonnes which could have been potentially damaging if it hit the planet. Scientists expect that no such celestial occurrence would take place until 2028 when another asteroid is supposed to pass the earth so closely.

Silicon Rival MoS2 Promises Small, Low-energy Chips

The first computer chip made out of a substance described as a promising alternative to silicon has been tested by researchers. The Switzerland-based team used molybdenite disulfide (MoS2) a dark-coloured, naturally occurring mineral. The group said the substance could be used in thinner layers than silicon, which is currently the most commonly used component in electronics. It said MoS2 could make smaller, more flexible chips that used less energy. The substance is currently used as an ingredient in engine lubricants, ski waxes and as a strengthening agent for plastics. A key advantage of having a thinner material is that the transistors can also be shrunk in size. Such kind of material is suitable for flexible electronics that could be rolled into tubes, attached to the skin or used to make mobile phones that curved themselves to fit the owners face.

Europe Ends Calls to Stranded Mars Probe

It is looking increasingly grim for Russias Mars mission PhobosGrunt, which has been stuck circling the Earth since its launch in early November. The European Space Agency announced that it was now ceasing any further attempts to get a signal. It was ESAs 15m antenna in Perth, Australia, that first managed to get a response from Phobos-Grunt on 22 and 23 November (GMT). That success was quickly followed by Russian ground controllers using a 0.5m dish in Baikonur, Kazakhstan. Phobos-Grunt is currently moving in an orbit with an altitude that varies between 200km (perigee) and 340km (apogee). This orbit is slowly decaying. If engineers cannot re-establish contact and control, the 13-tonne spacecraft will eventually fall back to Earth. The opportunity to go to Mars, however, has been lost. The changing alignment of the planets now makes the distance to Mars too big to cross. Phobos-Grunt was built to land on the larger of Mars two moons, Phobos, and scoop up rock to bring back to Earth. Such a venture would have yield fascinating new insights into the origin of the 27km-wide object and the planet it circles. The mission is also notable because Chinas first Mars satellite, Yinghuo-1, has been launched piggy-back on the main Russian spacecraft.

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Kepler 22-b: Earth-Like Planet Confirmed

Astronomers have confirmed the existence of an Earth-like planet in the habitable zone around a star not unlike our own. The planet, Kepler 22-b, lies about 600 light-years away and is about 2.4 times the size of Earth, and has a temperature of about 22C. It is the closest confirmed planet yet to one like ours - an Earth 2.0. Kepler 22-b was one of 54 candidates reported by the NASAs Kepler mission team in February, and is just the first to be formally confirmed using other telescopes. More of these Earth 2.0 candidates are likely to be confirmed in the near future, though a redefinition of the habitable zones boundaries has brought that number down to 48. Kepler 22-b lies at a distance from its sun about 15% less than the distance from the Earth to the Sun, and its year takes about 290 days. However, its sun puts out about 25% less light, keeping the planet at its balmy temperature that would support the existence of liquid water. The Kepler team had to wait for three passes of the planet before upping its status from candidate to confirmed. The results were announced at the Kepler telescopes first science conference, alongside the staggering number of new candidate planets. The total number of candidates spotted by the

Earths Date with Asteroid 2005 YU55

The vast expanse of universe and innumerable celestial phenomenon occurring within the Solar System have been a

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telescope is now 2,326 - of which 207 are approximately Earthsized. In total, the results suggest that planets ranging from Earth-sized to about four times Earths size - so-called superEarths - may be more common than previously thought.

is functioning properly. It was the second launch of the year, following a successful liftoff in September. It will augment the optical satellites Japan has already launched by providing data of what is happening on the ground at night or through cloud cover. Japan launched its first pair of spy satellites in 2003, prompted by concerns over North Koreas missile program. It currently has four optical information-gathering satellites in orbit, though the latest of those is not fully operational yet. It previously launched two radar intelligence satellites, but both malfunctioned. The satellite launched is expected to begin gathering intelligence in a few months. Another radar satellite launch is planned next year. That would give Japan the combination of two optical and two radar satellites that it wants to complete its network. Tokyo is seeking to use the satellites to provide information on any given spot on the planet at least once a day.

US Team Sees Biggest Black Holes Yet

A US team has found the two biggest supermassive black holes known to science, Nature journal reports. Sitting at the centres of two nearby galaxies, the two objects have masses close to 10 billion times greater than our Sun. Such large black holes had been suspected to exist, but, until now, the biggest known was some 6.3 billion times the mass of the Sun. The study is based on data from ground and space-based telescopes. Most massive galaxies, including our own Milky Way, are thought to harbour supermassive black holes at their centres. But these newly discovered black holes are much bigger than would be predicted by extrapolating from observations from their host galaxies. This suggests that the factors influencing the growth of the largest galaxies and their black holes differ from those influencing smaller galaxies. The findings come from observations of two nearby galaxies: NGC 3842 and NGC 4889.

Gene Behind Muscle Disease Discovered

An international team of researchers has discovered a genetic defect that contributes to a muscle disease using nextgeneration DNA sequencing techniques. The research co-led by the University of Leeds School of Medicine and the Charite, Berlin, investigated several families whose children suffered from a progressive muscle disease. The children developed severe weakness of the bodys muscles and the diaphragm - the main breathing muscle - making them dependent on a wheelchair and continuous mechanical ventilation. The children also had to be tube-fed because the esophagus - a muscular tube that transports food from the mouth down into the stomach - did not work properly. Using state-of the-art, next generation DNA sequencing technology, the scientists initially found a defect in the MEGF10 gene for a large family living in the UK. Further work found mutations in families with a similar condition from Europe and Asia. The MEGF10 gene normally plays an important function in muscle stem cells. These are also called satellite cells, because they are attached to the outer surface of the muscle fibres, where they normally remain silent. If a muscle fibre becomes damaged, the satellite cells become active, start to divide and then fuse with the muscle fibre. MEGF10 has an important role in this fusion process because it provides the gluey surface for the attachment of the satellite cell. Since body muscles make up about 40 percent of our weight and are the largest organ in the body, the muscles need to be maintained during normal life. MEGF10 also has a role in this regeneration process; failure causes progressive muscle weakness in not only muscles of the body and limbs but also the muscle cells that can be found in the internal organs. Their work means that accurate genetic testing and diagnosis will now be possible for this devastating condition. The work is published this week in the journal Nature Genetics.

Discovery of Lake on Jupiters Moon Boosts Hopes for Life

Scientists have discovered what appears to be a body of liquid water as vast as the volume of the North American Great Lakes locked inside the icy shell of Jupiters moon Europa, suggesting a potential new habitat for life. The water could represent a potential habitat for life, and many more such lakes might exist throughout the shallow regions of Europas shell, wrote lead author Britney Schmidt, a postdoctoral fellow at The University of Texas at Austins Institute for Geophysics. Further increasing the potential for life, the newly discovered lake is covered by floating ice shelves that seem to be collapsing, providing a mechanism for transferring nutrients and energy between the surface and a vast ocean already inferred to exist below the thick ice shell.

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NASA Okays Launch of Private Space Station Trip

A private U.S. company will attempt the first-ever commercial cargo run to the International Space Station next year. NASA announced the news recently, one year and one day after Space Exploration Technologies Corp., or SpaceX, became the first private business to launch a capsule into orbit and return it safely to Earth. On Feb. 7, SpaceX will attempt another orbital flight from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. This time, the unmanned Dragon capsule will fly to the space station and dock with a load of supplies. SpaceX will send its Dragon spacecraft to rendezvous with the International Space Station in less than two months, said NASAs, deputy administrator Lori Garver.

Japan Launches Spy Satellite

Japan has successfully put a spy satellite into orbit and expects to complete its network of intelligence-gathering satellites with another launch next year. Japans space agency, JAXA, said the launch from the remote southern island of Tanegashima went off without a hitch and the radar-equipped satellite

Bone Marrow Cancer Genes identified

In whats being hailed as a major breakthrough, scientists claim to have identified genes that can raise a persons risk of developing multiple myeloma, an aggressive form of bone marrow

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cancer, by nearly 30 per cent. A team at the Institute of Cancer Research used a technique called a genome wide association study to scan the DNA of 1,675 patients with multiple myeloma. The same process was also carried out on around 5,900 healthy people. When results were compared scientists discovered that two regions of the DNA that were more common in people with multiple myeloma and were therefore linked to a higher chance of developing the disease. Multiple myeloma is an aggressive cancer that sadly has poor survival rates. By learning more about the biology of multiple myeloma development, one can hope to identify new drug targets -- or even existing drugs -- that could improve patient outcomes. Multiple myeloma is becoming more common as the population ages, and so it is even more important that we find new treatments, a researcher said. Myeloma, is a type of bone marrow cancer which affects plasma cells inside the bone marrow, which are an important part of the immune system. Usually it doesnt exist as a lump or tumour and it is only when symptoms such as bone pain and fractures occur that a diagnosis is given. Currently theres no cure, but chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation can control its progression.

Air Force by 2013, the release said, adding that with this the country is looking forward to joining the league of countries capable of developing and delivering such complex airborne systems to its user.

India to Develop Solar-Powered UAV

India is planning to develop a solar-powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and scouting for a foreign partner for collaboration. The proposed solar-based UAV would have much longer flight duration -- as high as 15 days -- compared to conventional UAV, according to sources in the Bangalore-based Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a lab of the Defence Research and Development Organisation. ADE has also developed Mini UAVs of two kg class, which is undergoing flight trials, and micro UAVs of 300 mm size. Both of these UAVs have been demonstrated to the users which included police from various states, paramilitary forces in addition to the three services. The orders in bulk are expected, sources said. ADE has successfully developed Pilotless Target Aircraft Lakshya-I which can fly at a speed of 300 km/hr for 45 minutes. Three services have already placed order for more than 50 aircraft. Later, Lakshya-II was developed which flies at higher speed of 700 km/hr at altitudes as low as 25 metres with complete digital electronics. User trials were completed and this would be inducted shortly into the service. Nishant UAV was developed with payload capacity of 60 kgs and endurance of four hours. This was accepted by the services, which have placed the orders for more than ten aircraft, the sources said.

New Stem cells Found in Heart

Scientists have discovered a new population of adult stem cells in the heart, which they claim could augment the development of new regeneration and repair therapies for people who have suffered cardiac failure. An international team, led by Prof Richard Harvey of the University of New South Wales and colleagues at Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, says that this is the first time this new population of stem cells has been formally described, and its origins clearly defined. The findings, published in the latest edition of the Cell Stem Cell journal, come following recent reports that stem cells harvested from human hearts during surgery show promise for reversing heart attack damage.

Seeker Successfully Flight-tested in Nag

In a breakthrough in indigenous seeker technology for missiles, an RF (radio frequency) seeker has been successfully flight-tested in anti-tank Nag missile in the Army ranges at Ahmednagar in Rajasthan. While the scientists of the Defence Research and Development Organisation had so far developed Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker, this was the first time that a millimetric Wave (mmW) seeker, having all-weather capability, was tried for a 2,000 metre range in a successful mission. This would provide solutions for applications in surface-to-air missiles, air-to-air missiles, anti-tank missiles and air-to-surface missiles. It would also provide the technology base for changing to dual-mode seeker in future. The mmW seeker was designed and developed by scientists at Research Centre Imarat (RCI), one of the key laboratories of the DRDOs missile complex here. Nag Project Director S. S. Mishra said that in this flight, the seekers capability to track the target in a Lock-on-BeforeLaunch method, right from the missiles firing and throughout the trajectory, was successfully demonstrated. In future, the seeker would be used in a system in Lock-on-After-Launch mode for extension of the range. The production of the third generation hit-to-kill Nag missile is expected to commence after the final user trials with deliverable version of missile carrier NAMICA are conducted next summer. Modifications and improvements have been carried out

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Indian Airborne Early Warning System Tested

The first fully modified aircraft for the indigenously developed Indian Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C) has taken its maiden flight in Brazil taking the country a step forward as it prepares to enter a select club. The modified Embraer aircraft with the radar took to the skies at the facilities of the manufacturer at Sao Jose dos Campos in Brazil with about 1000 Mission System Components provided by the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) of the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO). These components include the critical item AESA (Active Electronic Scanning Antenna) Radar Antenna developed by DRDO and certified from ANAC, International FAR Certification Agency. While this aircraft will now undergo full certification process over the next two years, India will receive two aircraft by the middle of next year for integration of mission systems developed by various DRDO labs. Currently, these systems are undergoing ground integration and evaluation at the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bangalore. After detailed tests and evaluation, two of these systems will be delivered to the Indian

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in NAMICA as per the Armys requirements. The four-km range Nag missile has top-attack capability to nullify the explosive reactive armour of a modern battle tank.

Operator Reports Radioactive Water Leak from Fukushima

Japans crippled nuclear power plant leaked about 45 tonnes of highly radioactive water from a purification device over the weekend, its operator said, and some may have drained into the ocean. The leak is a reminder of the difficulties facing Tokyo Electric Power as it tries to meet its goal of bringing the tsunami-damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant to a cold shutdown by years end. The pooled water around the purification device was measured at 16,000 bequerels per litre of cesium-134, and 29,000 bequerels per litre of cesium-137, TEPCO said. Thats 270 times and 322 times higher, respectively, than government safety limits, according to the Citizens Nuclear Information Centre in Tokyo. Cesium-137 is dangerous because it can last for decades in the environment, releasing cancer-causing radiation. The half-life of cesium-134 is about two years, while the half-life of cesium-137 is about 30 years.

that krypton 81, an isotope present in the open air but not underground, would be a better marker for the forensic work of tracking underground waters movement. When water loses contact with air, the radioactive clock starts; the isotope decays by a factor of two every 230,000 years, and the decay is measurable as far back as two million years. But the krypton 81 isotopes were devilishly difficult to isolate and even more difficult to catch. In addition to being applied to other aquifers in places like the Philippines and Australia, the krypton 81 techniques are being explored as a way of tracking underground brine in places like southeastern New Mexico, where radioactive waste from ships, submarines and aircraft carriers is stored underground.

Government Monitoring Habitat as Migratory Birds decline

Environment and Forests Minister Jayanthi Natarajan has said that the population of endangered migratory bird species is either decreasing or stable, but the central government is working to protect them during their sojourn. The number of migratory birds arriving in India depends on various factors, including habitat quality, preference and human disturbances along their migratory routes, Ms. Natarajan said. However, as per the latest Asian Waterbird Census coordinated by the Wetlands International, the population of threatened migratory birds in the entire flyway region, which includes Central Siberia, Mongolia, Central Asian republics, Iran, Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indian subcontinent, is either decreasing or stable. Ms. Natarajan said the central government is providing financial and technical assistance to specialised institutions like the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) for conducting studies to monitor the populations of important bird species and their habitat. WII, BNHS and SACON are monitoring migratory birds in the Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur in Rajasthan. BNHS is also working in Point Calimere in Andhra Pradesh. In Himachal Pradeshs Pong Dam wetlands, one of the largest manmade wetlands in northern India, the BNHS is tracking the migratory routes of the barheaded goose and some duck species through satellite. A study on the status of transHimalayan and Himalayan birds, including migratory ones, is being conducted by the WII. Crossing national and international boundaries, millions of migratory birds descend in India to avoid the extreme winter chill in their native habitats. According to Handbook on Indian Wetland Birds and their Conservation, written by scientists of the Dehradun-based Zoological Survey of India, of the 1,230 species found in the Indian subcontinent, nearly 350 are migrants. The most abundant winter migrants to the Indian subcontinent are ducks and geese. Both constitute about 85 per cent of the population. The book says the birds go by celestial navigation. The birds possess sensory objects that can trace the waves generated by earths magnetic field. The migration starts

Rare Isotope Helps Track an Ancient Water Source

Physicists at the Department of Energys Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois have used krypton 81, a rate isotope, to track a Nubian Aquifer that stretches languidly across 770,000 square miles of northern Africa. The Nubian Aquifer is considered as the font of fabled oases in Egypt and Libya and it flows towards the Mediterranean Sea. Krypton 81 is one of the rarest particles on earth: an elusive radioactive isotope usually ricocheting around in the atmosphere at hundreds of miles an hour. An aquifer is a wet underground layer of waterbearingpermeable rock or unconsolidated materials (gravel, sand, or silt) from which groundwater can be usefully extracted using a water well. The study of water flow in aquifers and the characterization of aquifers is called hydrogeology. The aquifer is one of the worlds oldest. But researcher had not understood it working how it flows and how quickly surface water replenishes it because the tools available to study it have provided a blurry image. Their first success was in distilling these elusive isotopes, krypton 81, from the water in the huge Nubian Aquifer, part of which lies two miles below the oases of western Egypt where temples honour Alexander the Great. Their second was in holding these isotopes still and measuring how much they had decayed since they last saw sunlight. Knowing how long water has been underground helps researchers understand how fast aquifers are recharged by surface water and how fast they move, leading to more accurate geological models. Carbon 14 dating, so useful in archaeology, reaches back just 50,000 years or so. It is now clear that the Nubian Aquifer has been a million years in the making. For years, scientists had relied on carbon 14 dating indicating the aquifer was just 40,000 years old. They knew

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when the winds are favourable, mostly at dusk.

Worlds Smallest Electronic Circuit Developed

A team of scientists has engineered one of the worlds smallest electronic circuits. It is formed by two wires separated by only about 150 atoms or 15 nanometers (nm). The discovery could have a significant effect on the speed and power of the ever smaller integrated circuits of the future in everything from smartphones to desktop computers, televisions and GPS systems. This discovery, based on the principles of quantum physics, suggests a need to revise our understanding of how even the simplest electronic circuits behave at the nanoscale. In addition to the effect on the speed and efficiency of future electronic circuits, this discovery could also help to solve one of the major challenges facing future computer design. This is managing the ever-increasing amount of heat produced by integrated circuits. Well-known theorist Markus Buttiker speculates that it may be possible to harness the energy lost as heat in one wire by using other wires nearby. Moreover, Buttiker believes that these findings will have an impact on the future of both fundamental and applied research in nanoelectronics. The discovery has been published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

infections and death, is very common in many countries in Africa south of the Sahara desert.

New Super Yeast Turns Pine into Ethanol

A super strain of yeast developed by researchers at the University of Georgia can efficiently ferment ethanol from pretreated pine one of the most common species of trees in Georgia and the U.S. The breakthrough discovery could help biofuels replace gasoline as a transportation fuel. Companies are interested in producing ethanol from woody biomass such as pine, but it is a notoriously difficult material for fermentations, said Joy Doran-Peterson, associate professor of microbiology in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. The big plus for softwoods, including pine, is that they have a lot of sugar that yeast can use. Yeast are currently used in ethanol production from corn or sugarcane, which are much easier materials for fermentation; our process increases the amount of ethanol that can be obtained from pine, she said.

Worlds Lightest Material Developed

Scientists have developed what they claim is the worlds lightest material a metal with a density of 0.9 mg/cc. A team from the University of California, the California Institute of Technology and the HRL Laboratories says that the new material redefines the limits of lightweight materials because of its unique microlattice cellular architecture.

China Overtakes India as Diabetes Capital

China has overtaken India to wrest the title of the Diabetes Capital of the World, going by the latest figures revealed by the 5th edition of Diabetes Atlas. At 90.0 million, China today has the largest number of people with diabetes. India follows with about 61.3 million, and the third on the list is far behind United States at 23.7 million. These figures revealed by the Diabetes Atlas, an effort of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), in mid-November have once again stressed the rampant progress of the epidemic in a world that seems largely under-prepared to tackle the growing numbers. The current figures are a huge variance from the statistics presented during the last edition of the Diabetes Atlas. In 2009, the fourth edition put India at the top of the list of nations with diabetics. At 50.7 million, India was the country with the highest number of people, and China followed with 42.3 million. However, things changed in 2010, when China produced results of a nation-wide study, pegging the countrys diabetic population at 92.4 million. The revised statistic was accepted, and further validated globally when the 5th edition arrived at a figure of 90 million people.

Einsteins Theory Questioned as Speed of Light is Broken Again

The team of physicists, who had announced that Einstein theory of special relativity is wrong, has confirmed their claim by breaking the speed of light for a second time. Testing for a second time, scientists from Cern, the Swiss home of the Large Hadron Collider, sent another beam of subatomic particles over 450 miles to a laboratory in Gran Sasso in the Italian Alps. And after running the modified follow-up test 20 times, they recorded exactly the same results as before, the Daily Mail reported. According to Albert Einsteins 106-year-old theory of special relativity, nothing can travel faster than light in a vacuum because its particles have no mass. By contrast, neutrinos -said to be ghostly because they can travel through anything -have a very small mass. Their apparently record-breaking speed raises a host of possibilities straight out of science fiction stories. One explanation for the results could be the existence of other dimensions that provided the neutrinos with a shortcut -- a scenario that would leave Einsteins theory intact. Tested and re-tested for six months before it was announced, the initial finding shocked the science world in September. But it was greeted with scepticism as experts raised questions about every aspect of the physicists equipment and methodology. Critics of the first test said that running all 15,000 neutrinos at once meant there could be errors in the measurement that said they had beaten the speed of light by 60 nanoseconds (or billionths of a second). Now, the researchers claimed they have used a more accurate method for the second trial by sending shorter bunches of the tiny neutrinos with larger gaps in between. However, many experts still remain unconvinced.

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New Drug Wipes out Deadliest Malaria Parasite by Starving it to Death

A newly developed anti-malarial agent clears infections caused by the malaria parasite most lethal to humans by literally starving the parasites to death. The drug BCX4945 developed by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University could bolster efforts to develop more potent therapies against one of the worlds leading killers. Plasmodium falciparum, the malaria species most likely to cause severe

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HEALTH ISSuES...

HIV/AIDS: A BATTLE THAT CAN BE WON

Thirty years since the first reported case of Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in 1981, the response to the HIV/ AIDS epidemic has been unprecedented, especially in terms of global and national initiatives. HIV still remains a formidable foe, despite years of concerted global efforts and investments; there is still neither a cure nor an effective vaccine for the disease. However, over time, the profile of the HIV epidemic is evolving from a life threatening to a chronic disease, thanks to availability of more effective drugs and efficacious service delivery models involving communities and people living with HIV/AIDS. With changing realities, it is time, then, to reflect and re-strategise in the long-drawn war against HIV/AIDS. Fundamental to success is acknowledging that HIV/AIDS is a social and developmental issue as much as a health subject. transmission (PMTCT) programme in this region, a large number of babies born to HIV-positive mothers acquire the HIV infection in the womb. Today, thirty-four million people around the world are living with HIV, according to the latest UN figures. But, while there are now more people than ever living with the virus, deaths and new infections seem to be dropping steadily. A new UN report, published ahead of World AIDS Day-2011, shows, AIDS deaths have dropped to 1.8 million a year from 2.2 million in the mid-2000s. However, the prospect of a growing global funding shortage to tackle this disease worldwide continues to worry close observers, who say money will be critical to maintaining progress. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, launched by the UN secretary general Kofi Annan a decade ago, has cancelled its next funding round. Europes economic crisis is also to blame, of course, and so is bad publicity over some grants that fell into corrupt hands in Africa although reforms are under way and the UK still gives the fund an A1 value-for-money rating. AIDS is still incurable but not untreatable. After years of intense scientific efforts, huge sums of money, and some of the most effective health campaigning ever seen, people who become infected with the HIV virus today can live normal lives, albeit on daily medication. Sub-Saharan Africa has been the campaigners focus for more than 10 years. To everyones enormous credit, the rate of infection and deaths has slowed as drugs that used to be the sole property of rich countries have been rolled out in cheaply manufactured versions to the developing world. The great news this year is that scientists have now tentatively offered a way to end the disease. Studies in recent

months have shown that the drugs that keep people alive also stop them infecting others. A man who is on a standard combination of three antiretroviral drugs is 96% less likely to transmit HIV to his partner. That news has fired up all those working against Aids. Substantial progress has been made, such as a 31 per cent reduction in the number of new infections between 2001 and 2009 in South-East Asia. A revolutionary new approach to treatment endorsed by UNAIDS and the World Health Organisation (WHO), which includes improved, lower-cost drugs, simplified HIV diagnostic technologies, improved delivery systems, and innovations in prevention of HIV infection give hope for achieving universal access to prevention, care and treatment of HIV/AIDS, even in resource-constrained settings.

64 World scenario
In the year 1981, in New York and San Francisco, a small number of young men became inexplicably and very seriously ill. Some had a particular cancer while others had a form of pneumonia that had never before troubled that age group. Their immune systems were shot, their bodies unable to fight back, and they died. They were the first documented cases of Aids, a new disease that would terrify entire population as it scythed down rich and poor, celebrity and nonentity alike. Since then, the impact has been devastating especially on women and children. An estimated 1.3 million women aged 15 and above currently live with HIV in the WHOs South-East Asia Region (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Timor-Leste). The estimated number of children living with HIV has increased by 46 per cent during 2001-2009. Due to low coverage of the prevention of mother-to-child

HIV/AIDS in India
In 1986, the first known case of HIV was diagnosed by Dr. Suniti Solmon amongst female sex workers in Chennai. By 1987, about 135 more cases came to light. Setting up HIV screening centres was the first step taken by the government to screen its citizens and the blood bank. According to the United Nations 2011 AIDS report, there has been a 50% decline in the number of new HIV infections in the last 10 years in India. Despite

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being home to the worlds second-largest population suffering from HIV/AIDS, the AIDS prevalence rate in India is lower than in many other countries. In 2007, Indias AIDS prevalence rate stood at approximately 0.30%the 89th highest in the world. The spread of HIV in India is primarily restricted to the southern and north-eastern regions of the country and India has also been praised for its extensive anti-AIDS campaign. The main factors which have contributed to Indias large HIV-infected population are extensive labour migration and low literacy levels in certain rural areas resulting in lack of awareness and gender disparity. The Government of India has also raised concerns about the role of intravenous drug use and prostitution in spreading AIDS, especially in north eastern regions. In 2009, 2.4 million people were estimated to be infected with HIV in India. The estimated adult HIV prevalence was 0.32% in 2008 and 0.31% in 2009. The states with high HIV prevalence rates include Manipur (1.40%), Andhra Pradesh (0.90%), Mizoram (0.81%), Nagaland (0.78%), Karnataka (0.63%) and Maharashtra (0.55%). Adult HIV prevalence at a national level has declined notably in many states, but variations still exist across the states. A decreasing trend is also evident in HIV prevalence among the young population of 1524 years. India houses half of Asias HIV patients and is way ahead of China in disease burden. About 48 lakh people were living with HIV in Asia in 2010 and nearly half of them 49 per cent to be precise are in India, says the report released on the eve of World AIDS Day 2011. The percentage of pregnant women who tested positive for HIV infection in India also raised from 2 per cent in 2005 to 23 per cent in 2010. On the same day, the World Bank also released groundbreaking new evidence from India that demonstrates major advances in the understanding and prevention of HIV/AIDS of up to 3 million HIV/AIDS cases. A recently published impact evaluation found a significant decline in HIV prevalence among female sex workers and young women (15-24

years) seeking antenatal care in the highprevalence southern states in India. The drop in prevalence is associated with a significant increase in consistent condom use, the World Bank said, and noted that among the women seeking antenatal care in districts with high intensity of targeted interventions, HIV prevalence declined by more than 50 percent from 1.9 percent in 2001 to 0.8 percent in 2008, compared with low-intensity districts where the infection rate remained constant at 0.9 percent in both 2001 and 2008.

materialized. During NACP-II (1999-2006) a number of new initiatives were undertaken and the programme expanded to new areas. Targeted Interventions were started through NGOs, with a focus on High Risk Groups (HRGs) viz. commercial sex workers (CSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), injecting drug users (IDUs), and bridge populations (truckers and migrants). The package of services in these interventions included Behaviour Change Communication, management of STDs and condom promotion. The School AIDS Education Programme was conceptualised to build up life skills of adolescents and address issues relating to growing up. All channels of communication were engaged to spread awareness about HIV/AIDS, promote safe behaviours and increase condom usage. Voluntary counselling and testing facilities were established in healthcare facilities to promote access to HIV counselling and testing. The interventions for prevention of parent to child transmission were also started. Free antiretroviral therapy was initiated in selected hospitals in the country. Development of indigenous vaccine and research on microbicides are some initiatives in HIV research. Apart from this, some policy initiatives during NACPII included National AIDS Prevention and Control Policy, National Blood Policy, a strategy for greater involvement of people with HIV/AIDS and National Rural Health Mission. A National Council on AIDS was formed during this phase, consisting of 31 ministries and chaired by the Prime Minister. The council was constituted with the following objectives: To mainstream HIV/AIDS issue in all ministries and departments by treating it as a development challenge and not merely a public health problem. To provide leadership to mount multisectoral response to combat HIV/AIDS in the country with special reference to youth, women and the workforce. In 2007, the third phase of the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP III) targeted the high-risk groups. Targeted

NACO and NACP: against AIDS

crusaders

Soon after the first cases emerged in 1986, the Government of India established the National AIDS Committee within the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare which later formed the basis for the current apex Government of India body for HIV surveillance, the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). In 1992 Indias first National AIDS Control Programme (1992-1999) was launched, and National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) was constituted to implement the programme. The objective of NACP-I (19921999) was to control the spread of HIV infection. During this period a major expansion of infrastructure of blood banks was undertaken. Infrastructure for treatment of sexually transmitted diseases in district hospitals and medical colleges was created with the establishment of 504 STD (sexually transmitted diseases) clinics. HIV sentinel surveillance system was also initiated. NGOs were involved in the prevention interventions with the focus on awareness generation. The programme led to capacity development at the state level with the creation of State AIDS Cells in the Directorate of Health Services in states and union territories. In 1999, the second phase of the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP II) was introduced to decrease the reach of HIV by promoting behaviour change. Also, Prevention of mother-to-child transmission programme (PMTCT) and the provision of antiretroviral treatment were

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Fact-file
What is HIV:
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV is a member of the genus Lentivirus, part of the family of Retroviridae. Lentiviruses are transmitted as single-stranded, positive-sense, enveloped RNA viruses. Upon entry into the target cell, the viral RNA genome is converted (reverse transcribed) into double-stranded DNA by a virally encoded reverse transcriptase .The virus infects and gradually destroys the cells(CD4 cells or Helper T cells) in the body that usually combat infections leaving the body susceptible to diseases it would normally be able to fight. Without treatment, the immune system will become too weak to fight off illness and a person with HIV may develop rare infections (opportunistic infections) or cancers. When these are particularly serious, the person is said to have AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). Two types of HIV have been characterized: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-1 is the virus that was initially discovered and termed HTLV-III. It is more virulent, more infective, and is the cause of the majority of HIV infections globally. The lower infectivity of HIV-2 compared to HIV-1 implies that fewer of those exposed to HIV-2 will be infected per exposure. Because of its relatively poor capacity for transmission, HIV-2 is largely confined to West Africa How HIV is transmitted: HIV can only be passed on through infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids or breast milk. HIV is mainly transmitted through vaginal or anal intercourse without protection or by sharing a needle or syringe with someone whos living with HIV. Other ways through which HIV is transmitted are: From a mother to her baby during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding. From a needle stick injury in a healthcare setting. From a blood transfusion or blood products. Its impossible to transmit HIV through saliva and HIV cannot be passed on through casual contact such as kissing or sharing glasses or cutlery. HIV is a very fragile virus so doesnt live long outside the body. Symptoms of early HIV infection: These may feel like severe flu and the most common combination of symptoms are a fever, severe sore throat and a rash, all occurring at the same time (which is rare in an otherwise healthy person). These symptoms get better on their own and they may be the only symptoms a person with HIV experiences before becoming very ill with an extremely damaged immune system several years later. Whos at risk of HIV: Anyone who is sexually active or shares needles or injecting equipment could be at risk of HIV. Around three quarters of AIDS patients are gay and bisexual men or African men and women, but the number of people who are diagnosed with HIV who dont belong to either of these communities is increasing every year. Prevention: A course of antiretroviral treatment administered immediately after exposure, referred to as post-exposure prophylaxis, reduces the risk of infection if begun as quickly as possible. In July 2010, a vaginal gel containing tenofovir, a reverse transcriptase inhibitor, was shown to reduce HIV infection. Early treatment of HIV-infected people with antiretrovirals protected 96% of partners from infection. There is currently no publicly available vaccine for HIV or AIDS. However, a vaccine that is a combination of two previously unsuccessful vaccine candidates (ALVAC-HIV and AIDSVAX) was reported in September 2009 to have resulted in a 30% reduction in infections in a trial conducted in Thailand. Diagnosis: HIV-1 testing consists of initial screening with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect antibodies to HIV-1. The specimen undergoes confirmatory testing with a more specific supplemental test [e.g., Western blot or, less commonly, animmunofluorescence assay (IFA)]. Only specimens that are repeatedly reactive by ELISA and positive by IFA or reactive by Western blot are considered HIV-positive and indicative of HIV infection. HIV treatment: Although theres no cure for HIV, Treatment consists of highly active antiretroviral therapy, or HAART. Current HAART options are combinations (or cocktails) consisting of at least three drugs belonging to at least two types, or classes, of antiretroviral agents. Typically, these classes are two nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NARTIs or NRTIs) plus either a protease inhibitor or a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI).This therapy can keep the virus under control and allow someone with HIV to have an active, healthy life. Treatment is most effective if started early and its important that HIV positive people take their drugs exactly as prescribed in order to stay well.

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interventions are generally carried out by civil society or community organisations in partnership with the State AIDS Control Societies. They include outreach programmes focused on behaviour change through peer education, distribution of condoms and other risk reduction materials, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, linkages to health services, as well as advocacy and training of local groups. The NACP III also seeks to decentralise the HIV effort to the most local level, i.e. districts, and engage more non-governmental organisations in providing welfare services to those living with HIV/AIDS. In 2009 India established a National HIV and AIDS Policy and the World of Work, which sought to end discrimination against workers on the basis of their real or perceived HIV status. Under this policy all enterprises in the public, private, formal and informal sectors are encouraged to establish workplace policies and programmes based on the principles of non-discrimination, gender equity, health work environment, nonscreening for the purpose of employment, confidentiality, prevention and care and support. No agency is tasked with enforcing non-discrimination policy, instead multi-sectoral approach has been developed involving awareness campaigns in the private sector. HIV/AIDS-related television shows and movies have appeared in the past few years, mostly in an effort to appeal to the middle class. In 2010, NACO approved the Teach AIDS educational material marking the first time HIV/AIDS education could be provided decoupled from sex education. Later that year, the Government of Karnataka approved the materials for their state of 50 million and committed to distribute them in 5,500 government schools.

Prevention of parent-to-child transmission (PPTCT): In India, nearly five per cent of infections are attributable to parent-to-child-transmission. It is estimated that out of 27 million pregnancies every year, nearly 49,000 occur in HIV-positive mothers. One of the best practices in PPTCT in India is the outreach approach, used by the ICTC to ensure that HIV-positive women who are tested are followed up before, during and after an institutional delivery, and provided with anti-retroviral prophylaxis. The core principle of this approach rests on the continuum of care for women, children and their families a chain of interventions that begin before pregnancy and continue through pregnancy, labour and delivery and subsequently as part of routine or specialized chronic care services for after the child is born. Paediatric care and treatment: It is estimated that 70,000 children below the age of 15 are living with HIV in India. A small proportion are also infected by unsafe injections and infected by blood transfusion. The National Pediatric Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) Initiative was launched in 2006. A total of 40,000 children living with HIV will be provided ART by the end of NACP-III. The Road to Health card for these children includes information on maternal HIV status, co-trimoxazole prophylaxis, infant HIV diagnosis and infant feeding information. To reach more mother-infant pairs, the Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) programme is linked to the PPTCT and Paediatric HIV programme in order to provide for and incorporate HIV care into the package of services for mothers and children. Preventing infection among young adolescents and young people: In India, the prevalence of HIV among 15-19-year-olds is 0.04 per cent and that among 20-24 year olds is 0.18 per cent. The NACP III will also bring HIV prevention skills education programmes and related services to 70 million young people who are not in school, including, street children, children of CSWs, children in institutions, child labourers and other vulnerable youth.

Protection, care and support for children affected by AIDS: In the short term, NACP III will reach out to as many children living with HIV as possible to provide them with the treatment and the care and support services that they need. In the long term, NACP III aims to ensure that every child has access to the same comprehensive set of basic health, education and social protection services, regardless of their HIV status or that of any member of their family.

Recent efforts of the government:

The Centre is planning to bring the long-pending law that would prevent discrimination against HIV/AIDS patients very soon. Speaking on World AIDS Day, Health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said that, to create awareness about the HIV, the government will soon start Red Buses on the lines of Red Trains which will be used for campaign purposes. Wherever trains cant reach, govt. will use the buses. A meeting of the Working Group on AIDS Control, constituted by the Planning Commission, was held in September 2011 at NACO as part of the process of formulation of the XIIth Five Year Plan (2012). The draft strategy paper for NACP IV has been prepared after a wide ranging consultation with all stakeholders at various fora. This transparent and inclusive process involving civil society, positive networks, communities, technical experts, and government representatives from state and other central Ministries was widely appreciated. The strategy paper outlines the following objectives for NACP IV: i. 80% reduction in new infections in high prevalence states. ii. 60% in low prevalence states iii. Comprehensive Care, Support and Treatment to all persons living with HIV/AIDS.

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The Four Strategies for Prevention:

The global and country level response to HIV is based on a comprehensive approach that includes the following four strategic elements, or the four Ps:

PEPFAR and India

The United States, through the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), supports evidence-driven and innovative approaches to support Indias

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National AIDS Control Programme. PEPFAR provides expert technical cooperation to address priority areas linked to HIV prevention and treatment, and health system strengthening. For example, the U.S. has funded numerous demonstration projects that subsequently have been adopted and scaled up by the government of India or the private sector, including evidence-based prevention among mostat-risk-populations, private sector HIV service delivery models, help lines, dropin centres, group insurance for people living with HIV, and workplace HIV programmes. In recent years, U.S. has collaborated with the government of India to develop and implement national policies on gender, migrants, and children affected by AIDS.

million to 25 million AIDS cases in India by 2010 - more than any other country in the world. Indias government responded by calling these figures completely inaccurate, and accused those who cited them of spreading panic. The government has also disputed predictions that Indias epidemic is on an African trajectory, although it claims to acknowledge the seriousness of the crisis. According to UNAIDS, there has been improvement over time. Between 1996 and 2010 the rate of new HIV infections fell by 56 percent. This trend is mainly due to a drop in infections in southern states; in other areas there has been no significant decline. In the north-east, the dual HIV epidemic driven by unsafe sex and injecting drug use is highly concerning. Moreover, there are many areas in the northern states where HIV is increasing, particularly among injecting drug users. Even if the countrys epidemic does not match the severity of those in southern Africa, it is clear that HIV and AIDS will have a devastating effect

on the lives of millions of Indians for many years to come. It is essential that effective action is taken to minimise this impact. The spectrum of HIV care needs to evolve into a comprehensive primary care model that has an integrated, patientcentred approach, and is linked to specialist care where and when needed. It also needs to address the various sociocultural issues that take the response beyond the health sector into the families and communities. Other key challenges include late diagnosis of HIV, stigma and discrimination faced by people with HIV and most-at-risk population; limited capacity of health systems; high prices of antiretroviral drugs especially the second line drugs, and a lack of sustained finances. The health sector can only overcome these challenges if it collaborates with other sectors in order to tackle the social, economic, cultural and environmental issues that shape the epidemic and access to health services.

Conclusion
Various groups have made predictions about the effect that AIDS will have on India and the rest of Asia in the future, and there has been a lot of dispute about the accuracy of these estimates. For instance, a 2002 report by the CIAs National Intelligence Council predicted 20

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PERSPEctIvES...

ARE WE BEcomINg A SuRvEIllANcE StAtE?

Kapil Sibal, Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology, recently set off a firestorm of protest and a heated debate by demanding that social networking giants like Google, Yahoo, Facebook, and Microsoft, which enable hundreds of millions of individual users to publish and share on the worldwide web remove inflammatory content as well as other text and images that might offend Indian sensibilities. Not surprisingly, parallels between the cases have been drawn at will to make ever possible argument for and against every side of the debate. On the one hand are those who claim to be donning the mantle of defenders of order, decency, and Indian values led by union minister himself and on the other hand are millions of net users who are presenting themselves as champions of freedom of expression and democratic rights. them out. So you dont know what is happening to the populations which live there. In some states like West Bengal there is an emerging political culture which drives out journalists from press conferences held by political parties. Why? Because individual journalists are increasingly seen as partisan and political party workers have become more intolerant. If the leash was being shortened on news and the media in 2010, other spaces - cultural or cyber, were also under attack: and slowly, our right to choose the films we wish to watch, the books we can read or the websites we access is being taken from us. Broadly speaking, there are three main rationales for protection of freedom of speech, which are also reflected in the vision with which our Constitution was drafted. The first is the self government rationale, which provides that it is indispensable to protect free speech for a robust democratic process. Protection of free speech is essential for people to communicate on political matters, which in turn enables them to fully participate in democratic affairs. The second rationale is fashioned on laissez faire in the economic realm and conceives that, in a marketplace of ideas, the better ideas eventually prevail through competition. Under this marketplace of ideas rationale, all kinds of speech are permitted on the understanding that ruinous speech will fail the market assessment test, and will eventually be discarded. This justification for free speech is that it is essential in a societys search for truth, which will ultimately emerge after a competition of all ideas in the marketplace. The last rationale treats freedom of speech as promotion of every individuals self-fulfilment and autonomy. This rationale posits that protection of free speech is essential for human identity. To be fully human, it is essential to protect thoughts. The line between hate speech and free speech is a thin one, and different countries have different levels of tolerance. The line is even thinner on the Internet, where hateful comments posted lawfully in one country can be read in other countries where they may be deemed unlawful. Many pundits argue that the best response to hate speech is not criminalization, but more speech. Philosopher Pierre Lvy reminds us that: More and more, on the Web, ideas are being expressed by the people who are thinking them, and not by journalists who are obliged to simplify or caricature debate because of lack of time or incompetence or, even worse, the political powers that be. The new medium is therefore particularly conducive to the creation of a public space in the classical sense.

Freedom of expression
there ought to exist the fullest liberty of professing and discussing, as a matter of ethical conviction, any doctrine, however immoral it may be considered. -John Stuart Mill This excerpt is from Mills seminal work On Justice which has been instrumental in shaping modern conceptions of the rights of the individual in a democratic state. This recent furore over states attempts to muzzle social web can well be placed in the larger context of many such attacks in the recent past on individual freedom of expression. Freedom of speech, in the media as well as in the arts, cannot be taken for granted. Constitutionally guaranteed freedoms are now frequently being contested by arms of the government, by insurgents, and by vigilante groups. There are tracts of the country where journalists cannot go in to report because the security forces or the Maoists keep

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the Harm Principle and the offense Principle

According to Mill, there are two major clauses to free speech- the Harm Principle and the Offense Principle. The first is valid (examples of use include hate speech, incitement of violence and making death threats) and the second is not (examples of use include blasphemy, criticizing an ideology, supporting an ideology/religion). This is the foundation of logic and reason over which we can build an appropriately malleable legal structure. Without such a logical framework, the ambiguity is a tool of oppression. The only valid restrictions on freedom of speech are those that are clearly meant to prevent harm. However, governments must go about doing this without stripping us off our freedom to offend. We must find a balance between the two. But

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how do we determine where this line lies? The only way to practice such a balance is to restrict the law to criminalize only those aspects of speech that clearly are intended to cause harm. Consider a case of hate speech, incitement of violence or making of death threats. A clear and intended causal effect must be drawn between the act of expression and the harm done. This is the only legitimate way in which the Harm Principle can be evoked to restrict certain forms of speech. In order for an act of speech to violate the harm principle, it must call for and/ or intend harm against individuals, and/ or target specific locations or events. That is, one must express intent towards furthering specific harmful acts for the harm principle to be violated. On the contrary, if an act of speech expresses support for the notion of harm, or argues that harm is the only way for something to get done, it cannot be construed of as violating freedom of speech. This is the nuance that is often missed. One instance involves verbally endorsing an act of physical aggression (with the intention of furthering said act). The other is about simply supporting an ideology (without calling for harmful action). Of course, the ideology can have unintended harmful consequences, but that is immaterial. It can be argued that every influential ideology has harmful consequences, including yours and mine. This distinction between action and ideology makes a world of difference in real situationsthe type of situations that such laws are meant to help navigate. The reason why we need this clear distinction is to avoid ambiguity in practice. This distinction prevents abuse by governments that want to get rid of certain popular ideas, under the pretext that they are terrorist ideas. A case in point is the Maoist ideology. Simply dismissing all Maoist ideology as terrorist is exactly the kind of thing that the distinction between supporting actions (intended to cause harm), and supporting ideology (with no intention of causing harm) is meant to prevent. This sort of attack on an ideology by the government constitutes blatant censorship of ideas, under the pretext of protecting the people. This is exactly

the kind of authoritarian government intrusion into public life that democracy is supposed to guard us from. Ideologies are very complex sets of beliefs, and no ideology is a self-contained entity. The only way we have of preserving freedoms and removing ambiguity is to clearly distinguish ideologies from acts that are intended to harm. This is the form of the word ideology that we must use to preserve democratic freedoms. This is very important, because politics, like everything else, needs careful analysis of the semantics used. The instant we begin adding restrictions to the free discussion of ideas we are in authoritarian territory. However, when speech does indeed demonstrate intent to cause harm, democratic governments have a duty to prosecute the speaker. The failure of this clamp-down on certain kinds of speech is also a failure of democracy.

or unknown jurisdictions may not be possible unless a special world Internet standards forum comes into being, possibly through a federation of national forums. Hillary Clinton meanwhile had some advice for India on this topic. What would she say about Harvard University removing Subramanian Swamy from its summer faculty for propagating hate speech against Muslims in a newspaper article? And how would she explain USenforced embedded journalism with censorship in coverage of an admittedly deceitful and dishonest war in Iraq?

What cyber experts say?

Cyber laws and communications experts feel that Union Minister Kapil Sibals suggestion to pre-monitor content on social media websites is a flawed argument, which completely ignores the pre-existing IT Act in the country. We have an IT Act which came into existence in 2000. It is considered to be a mother legislation dealing with all the data and information in electronic form as also the use of computers. This law already has in place certain provisions, which were further amended in 2008. After the amendment to Section 66 (A), the IT Act provides for a very wide offence pertaining to electronic/online defamation -- an offence punishable with three years imprisonment and fine. Supreme Court advocate Pavan Duggal, who is also an expert on cyber laws, is opposed to the idea put forth by Sibal, and says we already have enough laws in place. While Section 66 (A) deals with these aspects, there is also Section 67 of the IT Act which makes criminal the publishing and transmission of obscene electronic information. This section is also wide enough to incorporate content that is defamatory or appears to be prurient or the effect of which is to deprave and corrupt the minds of those who are likely to see, read or hear the same. This is another broad category of offence attracting three years of prison or Rs 5 lakh in fine. However, after the amendment the offence has become a bailable one, Duggal notes.

the other side

There is, indeed a section which sympathises with the governments proposal of censorship to curb pornographic, blasphemous and incendiary postings that incite violence and hate and doesnt see it as something borne out of fear of criticism of official failures and misdeeds. According to them one mans right ends where anothers is imperilled. Freedom is not licence to abuse. Some champions of free speech who have had access to the offending items that Sibal placed before them, admit to having been shocked. Internet and social media are new and fast-growing means of communication and networking where rules of the game are yet to come into being. Further they argue that Sibal is only urging that society should start dialoguing on this matter and begin to fashion a sensible and practical via media to monitor excesses. Certain guidelines exist. They should be reviewed and service-providers like Google, Facebook and YouTube might hereafter respond to specific complaints and take down what they agree is prima facie objectionable. Suing strangers for defamation in foreign

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Further, under the IT Act the government has implanted the rules of April 2011 which provide a mechanism for disabling access to defamatory and illegal content. Any affected person can complain to the service provider or the government can notify the service provider about the same. The service provider is mandated to act within 36 hours, failing which the service provider becomes a coaccused and a co-abettor and could face civil and criminal exposure under IT Act and also the Indian Penal Code. The process of dialogue is key to our democracy, like it is to all democracies. The problem is that when laws are made to target ideologies rather than actions, this freedom to discuss and debate ideas is compromised. Critics are right in pointing out that even if service providers agree to monitor

and remove offensive material, they will have a mountainous task ahead of them given the volume of messaging. For the government, in addition, to keep an eye on the service providers will be an equally mammoth task. Already, in a country of 1.2 billion people, governmental capacity is stretched to the limit. To ask our overextended, ramshackle bureaucracy to regulate social networks is to court disaster. Making a judgment about what is truly blasphemous and hateful is a difficult business, one that even judges and academics have difficulty doing. The idea that electronic service providers and thousands of government officials sitting in front of computer screens will be able to differentiate between the truly hurtful and harmful and the ravings of the mischievous or demented is laughable.

That they could, in any case, intervene in time to prevent materials being uploaded is hard to believe.

conclusion
The spirit of democracy can be strengthened if citizens are able to fully participate in democratic affairs (self government rationale). Similarly, for fostering a social revolution and to improve the lot of Indians, it is necessary that the society engages itself in the pursuit of truth, and all citizens be given every opportunity to realise their potential (self-fulfilment and autonomy). These rationales for free speech thus represent an important resource in our constitutional tradition a resource that the Indian state keeps ignoring at its own peril.

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INSPIRAtIoNS@IP...

Stop @ Nothing
She is also an influential book critic, an Academy Award-nominated actress, and a magazine publisher. She has been ranked the richest African American of the 20th century, the most philanthropic African American of all time, and the worlds only black billionaire for three straight years. She is also, according to several assessments, the most influential woman in the world. No one ever blames Oprah Winfrey for taking some easy way out. Although her childhood was full of toil, this young girl from Kosciusko, Mississippi always believed she was destined to be someone great. Maybe it was from her life background in a village that she learned to turn misery into wisdom as she stated later. And her misery was not just a few. She was born as the result of a free intercourse between her mother and a service man who then left her. First, Oprah was brought up by her grandmother in a pig farm with no running water facility. She then lived with her mother who moved to Milwaukee where she was sexually abused by a family friend and her own relative. She went in and out of rehabilitation for cocaine abuse. Oprah grew up into a rebellious teenager and at 14 years of age, she gave birth to a male baby that died a week later. Losing her patience, Oprahs mother sent her to live with her father a man she never knew before. But it was by living with her father that she eventually got the discipline she needed to turn her outstanding intelligence into its right track. Oprahs broadcasting career began at age 17, when she was hired by WVOL radio in Nashville, and two years later signed on with WTVF-TV in Nashville as a reporter/anchor. In January 1984, she came to Chicago to host WLS-TVs AM Chicago, a faltering local talk show. In less than a year, she turned AM Chicago into the hottest show in town. The format was soon expanded to one hour, and it was renamed The Oprah Winfrey Show. Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. try again. Do better the second time. the only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. this is your moment. own it- oprah Winfrey. Seen nationally since September 8, 1986, The Oprah Winfrey Show became the number one talk show in national syndication in less than a year. In June 1987, in its first year of eligibility, The Oprah Winfrey Show received three Daytime Emmy Awards. In June 1988, the Show received its second consecutive Daytime Emmy Award as Outstanding Talk/Service Program, and she herself received the International Radio and Television Societys Broadcaster of the Year Award. She was the youngest person

Success is never served on a platter. It comes after a hard fought battle where one proves his/her worth. For women this battle has been little harder for social and political reasons. Fighting against hundreds of years of subjugation, dependence, entrenched stereotypes and prejudices, it often takes them a lifetime to create a niche for themselves. Today, however, women are displaying not only their capability to multi-task but are also excelling at what they do. For them, career is a passion and not a mere job. 2011 was globally celebrated as 100th anniversary of International Womens Day. Women have indeed come a long way since the year that marked the first such celebrations. Fortunately, today we have many women role models who inspire us to keep striving hard and try to make it large. OPRAH WINFREY AND PATRICIA NARAYAN are two such women belonging to two different parts of the world who fought it out and made a difference to society with their stellar work and other pursuits that touch our lives, in more ways than one. This piece brings alive their unique stories with personal anecdotes that will serve as a beacon for many of us. oprah Winfrey is the American multiple-Emmy Award winning host of The Oprah Winfrey Show, the highest rated talk show in television history.

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Fact-file
The first national Womens Day was observed on 28 February 1909 in the United States following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. In August 1910, an International Womens Conference was organized to precede the general meeting of the Socialist Second International in Copenhagen. Inspired in part by the American socialists, German Socialist Luise Zietz proposed the establishment of an annual International Womans Day (singular) and was seconded by Clara Zetkin, although no date was specified at that conference. Delegates (100 women from 17 countries) agreed with the idea as a strategy to promote equal rights, including suffrage, for women. The following year, on 18 March, 1911, IWD was marked for the first time, by over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. In the Austro-Hungarian Empire alone, there were 300 demonstrations. In Vienna, women paraded on the Ringstrasse and carried banners honouring the martyrs of the Paris Commune. Women demanded that they be given the right to vote and to hold public office. They also protested against employment sex discrimination. Americans continued to celebrate National Womens Day on the last Sunday in February.

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and only the fifth woman ever to receive the honor in IRTSs 25-year history. During more than 15 years of unpredicted success, Oprah kept sharing many things, including her own struggle and success affairs: going on a diet against too much food and fat (she eventually got her ideal weight), a law suit by a ranch owner (which she won), the TV Garbage program which dominates her market segment (she soared up and achieved highest rating). Even, after all she had been through, she refused to see her failures as mistakes. I dont believe in failure Oprah said. It is not a failure if you enjoy the process. In 1991, motivated in part by her memories of childhood abuse, she initiated a campaign to establish a national database of convicted child abusers, and testified before a U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on behalf of a National Child Protection Act. President Clinton signed the Oprah Bill into law in 1993, establishing the national database she had sought, which is now available to law enforcement agencies and concerned parties across the country. Oprah was named one of the 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century by Time magazine, and in 1998 received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

You can receive a lot of awards in your life, but there is nothing better, nothing better than being honored by your own- oprah Winfrey Patricia Narayan, an average Indian woman started her career 30 years ago as an entrepreneur, selling eateries from a mobile cart on the Marina beach amidst all odds -- battling a failed marriage, coping with her husband, a multiple addict, and taking care of two kids. Stick to what you know. Never lose your confidence and compromise on quality of work, said Patricia Narayan, the FICCI Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2010. The owner of a chain of restaurants called Sandeepha in India, Patricias life has been a perfect example of the rags to riches story. Born to a conservative Christian family, Patricia was always a passionate cook. Her marriage came as a struggle to her, with her husband being an alcoholic, a drug-abuser and a wife-beater. Moving away from her husband was one of the most difficult tasks that Patricia had to do. Staying on the Marina Beach at Mumbai, with two very young children with her, Patricia gathered the courage of starting out on her own. Selling tea, coffee and other eatables on her mobile cart gave her the courage to break-in as an entrepreneur. On her first day at the beach, all she earned was fifty paise by selling a cup of coffee. However, she

did not give up. After putting in endless hours of work, Patricia managed to gather around Rs 20,000 a month with her mobile cart. I used to personally stand there and sell all the stuff I made. I never felt scared to stand there late at night. My only thought was to prove myself and move ahead. There was a fire in me that made me believe that I could be successful without anyones help. I did not want to be a failure. If you have that fire, nothing in the world can stop you from succeeding. But there is suffering in life, and there are defeats. No one can avoid them. But its better to lose some of the battles in the struggles for your dreams than to be defeated without ever knowing what youre fighting for.- Paulo Coelho One thing led to the other and Patricia was offered to run a canteen at the Slum Clearance board office where she witnessed a roaring business. Widely popular, she contacted the Sangeetha restaurant group, where she managed to get a partnership in one of their units. Destiny played truant against her as she lost her daughter in a road-accident. Witnessing a cold behavior by the ambulance operators for the dead body of her loved one, Patricia decided to help others in need. She now keeps a private ambulance on that very spot, which helps people in need to reach to the hospital on time. Though shattered, Patricia did not deter from her goal and went on to start her own chain of restaurants, called Sandeepha, in her daughters memory. An awe-inspiring story of heroism, Patricia Narayan is a motivation to many who wish to pursue what they believe in. With a smile on her face in whatever she did, Patricia faced all odds of the maledominated world and stopped at nothing, to become what she is today. You have to believe that you are the one who creates your success, that you are the one who creates your mediocrity, and that you are the one creating your struggle around money and success. - t. Harv Eker

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Michael is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he was doing, would reply, If I were any better, I would be twins! He was a natural motivator. If an employee was having a bad day, Michael was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation. Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up to Michael and asked him, I dont get it! You cant be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it? Michael replied, Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or ... you can choose to be in a bad mood. I choose to be in a good mood. Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or ... I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it. Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or... I can point out the positive side of life. I Choose the positive side of life. Yeah, right, its not that easy, I protested. Yes, it is, Michael said. Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood. You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: Its your choice how you live your life. I reflected on what Michael said. Soon thereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it. Several years later, I heard that Michael was involved in a serious accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications tower. After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, Michael was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back. I saw Michael about six months after the accident. When I asked him how he was, he replied. If I were any better, Id be twins. Wanna see my scars? I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through his mind as the accident took place.

Michaels Story

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The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my soon-to-be-born daughter, Michael replied. Then, as I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or ... I could choose to die. I chose to live. Werent you scared? Did you lose consciousness? I asked. Michael continued, ...the paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read hes a dead man. I knew I needed to take action. What did you do? I asked. Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me, said Michael. She asked if I was allergic to anything. Yes, I replied. The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, Gravity. Over their laughter, I told them, I am choosing to live. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead. Michael lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude. I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully. Attitude, after all, is everything. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. After all today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

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Thinkers Arena

Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012

ThINKERS ARENA...

An Open Letter to Sharad Pawar: Kindly Acknowledge, Minister.

By Agrima Bhasin (The author is reading the MPhil in Social and Cultural Anthropology from University of Oxford)
Dearest, Mr. Sharad Pawar Honble Minister of Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India. 20th December 2011 Sir, You will agree that it is often the circus of Indian politics that forms the subtext of our melodramatic movies. This is apparent in the current U-turn by the Government to green signal the National Food Security Bill (NFSB) 2011; a feel good moment in a Bollywood movie with the heroine singing Im Feeling Good before the interval. Minister, I hope you are not partaking in this populist song fest just yet and instead toiling hard to fine-tune the Bill, to leave the masses with a happy ending. Last week you deferred the Bill, deeming it a fiscal burden and a big headache for the Government. In contrast, your good friend, K.V. Thomas on record said that in the face of inflation, it is incumbent on the government to shoulder some financial burden for this. Before expressing solidarity with Mamata Bannerjees Trinamool Congress in questioning the sustainability of this generous rightsbased legal entitlement, you did not realise that your words delivered to the faces of the poor, a slap, the hurt of which you are very familiar with. This slap comes only a few months after the Planning Commission asserted that the poor could live on Re.32 and Re.26 a day in rural and urban areas, respectively. Heres wishing that you acknowledge how belittling these figures are, unless, of course you invite the poor to eat from the Parliament canteen everyday, serving, as it does, food that is shockingly subsidised (chai for Re.1; dal and roti for Re.1.50 each among other options). You argued that, If theres a famine, from where will we get food to support the hungry? My answer is- the silent emergency of malnutrition and day-to-day, chronic hunger demands your immediate attention over a one-off famine that can be prevented in the first place. And prevention is better than cure, Minister. Let us not hoard the grain to be distributed only on the occasion of famine for we will still have a surplus, if only we can prevent the grain from rotting in FCI godowns across India. We understand you are upset that the rupee depreciated. But in addition to fiscal constraints, you also cited foodgrain shortage and increased procurement as concerns. However, your concerns have been rendered invalid by the Governments recent turn-around in assuring availability of food grains and declaring that there is enough scope of widening procurement beyond the present30% grain acquisition. Minister, now is your chance to transcend the developmental rhetoric and guarantee food security not only in letter, but also in spirit. The Bill, as it stands, runs the risk of being old wine in a new bottle. However, giving it teeth will enormously relieve the food insecure. The Cabinet may have passed the Bill in haste, but a Bill aiming to mandate the right to food as a legal obligation surely requires some hectic deliberations, hitherto missing. You can begin by addressing limitations in the Bill. See below. Kaun Banega BPL Montek Singh Ahluwalia on national TV asserted that the BPL poverty caps would not determine food entitlements. If this is true then what explains the inclusion of 46% rural and 28% urban households in the respective priority groups (caps in the Draft Bill that coincide with the unrevised BPL estimates of the Tendulkar Committee 2004-05)? Why this doublespeak, Minister? In relation to PDS, the Bill borrows the from the NAC framework and classifies households into three target groups: priority, general and excluded (a nomenclature makeover for APL, BPL?). Why this is so problematic is something the naysayers desist from debating. Firstly, the proposed coverage of these 75% rural and 50% urban populace, conveniently excludes the remaining 25% and 50%, respectively. Secondly, there is serious ambiguity as to how the three target groups will be identified. In this context, the Governments reliance on the Social and Economic Caste Census (SECC) employs narrowly defined exclusion criteria, a recipe for misclassification and erroneous exclusion of often those who it seeks to include. It is heartening to an extent that Mr. K.V. Thomas has decided to take these poverty caps as the minimum numbers to be ensured under the Bill and made room for further entitlements based on the data of the unfinished BPL Census. Still, the Planning Commissions obsession with the Below Poverty Line has grossly underestimated poverty in the past, in addition to wrongly excluding the actual poor from BPL benefits. And ironically, there is now a demand for BPL status, perpetuating poverty in its own way through the politics of classification. Lastly, identification of the BPL households as the sole prerogative of the Centre undermines the judgement of the state governments in ascertaining the number of poor within their regions. Notice, Minister, that Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, successfully expanded the coverage of PDS in his State. Universalisation Minister, you are aware that the Bill marries food guarantees to unrepresentative poverty caps. Therefore, we can ill-afford differential subsidies for priority and general groups since 25% and 50% of the households in rural and urban areas are excluded anyway. If you cannot consider universalising the PDS, then at best consider collapsing this futile division between priority and general and guarantee a basic minimum entitlement universally to at least the 75%(rural)and 50% (urban)poor that you have chosen to cover. Our objective definition of poverty can never subsume the subjective reality of

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Thinkers Arena the poor. Hence, the pro-universalisation arguments are simple. To target general and priority groups instead of universalising PDS for all is to be penny wise but pound foolish. Complex PDS targeting has failed us in the past and will fail us now. Conversely, universalisation will allow you to get rid of the administrative difficulties, transaction costs and ambiguities accruing from the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) that aims to identify target groups. Further, if you want to entitle the priority groups to 35 kilos of food grains a month at Re.1 for millets, Re.2 for wheat, and Re.3 for rice; and the general groups to 15 kilos of food grains a month at higher prices, economists would tell you that universalisation is a buffer against black-markets that capitalise on dual pricing of the same good. I am also aware of your concerns about the increased pressure on procurement practices and the subsequent rise in market prices, if PDS is universalised. But I am given to understand that increased procurement will not result in a food deficit in the market and a subsequent price rise as long as the procured grain is distributed and not hoarded. Refer to this. net in future. However, its introduction as a substitute for PDS is premature at best and unreliable at worst. In places like Brazil, where CTs have worked, there is an already existing, strong system of public services and infrastructure, in addition to effective banking. And until we achieve this, encouraging the poor to opt for CTs is the surest route to minimising Government responsibility in reaching food to the poor! The Challenge of Implementation Minister, your Government is ready to foot the bill for this legislation amidst naysayers whining about poor economics and unstable economy. So fiscal and food deficit concerns aside, the biggest impediment in achieving food security is likely to be the absence, in the Bill, of a detailed plan on effective implementation (procurement, storage, distribution and vigilance). Three recommendations that are popular in this regard are that, 1) Local procurement, local distribution and local storage in the spirit of decentralised planning, 2) The composition of the three-tier grievance redressal mechanism should include civil society representatives within it and 3) Set up local vigilance bodies comprising of the poor as the primary stakeholders, in addition to people like my colleagues and I who are happy to assist you with local vigilance. If we start from the premise that policy is what it does then we will avoid the peril of seeing implementation as delinked from policy. 60 years after independence, what we have is a dismal report card on poverty, malnutrition, hunger and farmer suicides. The need of the hour is your door ki soch, Minister. There is great potential in the NFSB to adopt a multi-faceted approach in addressing nutrition, agriculture, health, gender inequality and sustenance. And the inclusion, inter alia, of maternity benefits, mid-day-meals, ICDS services in the Bill is noteworthy. Since not all of these can take shape as legal provisions, convergence on a shared platform, of ministries whose policies relate to food security, can overcome this legal shortcoming in the long term. Brazils cash transfers scheme was quick to hold your imagination but there is another,

Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012 more crucial lesson that we ought to learn from Brazil. And that is, the political will of their politicians, especially, President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva who achieved the convergence of over 30 programmes (or ministries) to make his Fome Zero (Zero Hunger) policy a success. I am no economist but while urging you to reconsider your priorities on moral grounds; I support those in the Government who suggest that you earnestly explore the fiscal space within the existing budget to accommodate food security for all without comprising our current financial position. Reprioritising expenditure, taxing the rich or raising a minimum tax will make room for the lack of funds. Expenditure on Formula 1, mall tax for constructing the fifth mall in the same area, free airline tickets to extended families of Air India personnel, unnecessary tax exemptions and avoiding of losses in pilferage and storage of grain- are a few issues you can rethink to begin with. Surely, expert economists in the Planning Commission can offer better suggestions. Most importantly, Minister of Agriculture, Sir, serious reforms in the agricultural sector need to be fast tracked to provide market incentives and allow farmers to grow autonomously; for most often those who grow food for you and me are the ones who are deprived of the same. And naysayers, who interpret a States obligation to provision food at affordable prices as charity, tell them youd rather sanction subsidised food grains than have the poor beg (arms outstretched) for charity! There is a moral immediacy to ensure food security in the country. This letter merely reiterates what others have intelligently argued several times before. Minister, the intention to guarantee food as an enforceable right is most laudable. It could set an ambitious global precedent in eradicating hunger and malnutrition. And since you are a direct stakeholder, one asks you to prioritise this Bill, pass it in the Budget session even, but do give it bite. Let it not go down as a wasted opportunity. Kindly Acknowledge, Minister. [This Letter was written for a discussion blog, Critical Twenties]

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Corruption, coupled with leakages and pilferage in PDS, are quick rebuttals to dismiss universalisation. Effective universalisation in states like Tamil Nadu and near universalisation of PDS in Chattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Orissa, Rajasthan among others, are examples that are rarely considered by critics. Food Minister, K.V. Thomas is hesitant to universalise subsidised grains for he fears that a food grain deficit might dishonour a legal guarantee of food entitlement to the poor. Although it is wholly questionable whether we might fall short of grain, we appreciate Mr. Thomas reluctance to make false promises, and also the time and energy he has invested in this Bill thus far. Cash Transfers Ek aur baat, Minister. Why this mention of U.S. style food coupons and Brazil type Cash Transfers (CTs), knowing perfectly well that the PDS, how much ever corrupt, is the lifeline of the poor? Cash is inflation sensitive and can be potentially (mis) used for purchases other than food, even if handed out to the women. Further, setting up bank accounts for every food insecure household is far from hassle free (even if you leverage UID). One is not averse to direct CTs as an added security

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Mosaic...

fOlk DANcE of INDIA

India is a land of varied cultures and traditions. Diversities in all spheres make the Indian culture quite unique. Indian folk and tribal dances are product of different socio-economic set up and traditions. Indian folk and tribal dances are simple and are performed to express joy. In India we have festivals and celebrations virtually every day. This has added to the richness of Indian culture. Since every festival is accompanied by celebration, folk dances have become an integral part of our social milieu. While there are numerous folk and tribal dances, they are constantly improved. The skill and the imagination of the dances influence the performance. Folk dances are performed for every possible occasion, to celebrate the arrival of seasons, birth of a child, a wedding and festivals. The folk dances are extremely simple with minimum of steps or movement. Indian folk dances are full of energy and vitality. Some dances are performed separately by men and women while in some performances men and women dance together. On most occasions, the dancers sing themselves, accompanied by artists with instruments. Each form of folk dance has a specific costume and rhythm. Most of the costumes, worn for folk dances, are colorful with extensive jewels and designs. This is the second part of a three part series on Indian Dance Forms. First part was covered in the December 2011 issue and the last will be covered in the February 2012 issue of India Prepares. their way to the dancing ground. Women ornamented with brass fillets and bead necklaces with their tattooed bodies also join the gathering. The men beat the drums, tossing the horns and feathers of their head-gears to the rising tempo that gives the dance a wilder touch. Muria Dances The Muria tribals of North Bastar area are trained in all types of their community dances. At the start of dance sequences they begin with an invocation to the phallic deity of their tribe and the founder of the Ghotul institution. The site chosen for the dance is near the Ghotul compound. During marriages, the Muria boys and girls perform Har Endanna dance. Their Hulki dance is the most beautiful of all the dances while the Karsana dance is performed for fun and enjoyment. In the Hulki dance, boys move in a circular fashion while the girls make their way through them. Saila Dance Saila dance is performed by the young boys of Chattisgarh during the post harvest time. Saila is a stick-dance and ispopular among the people of Sarguja, Chhindwara and Betul districts. In this region the Saila dance is also known as Danda Nach or Dandar Pate. Saila dance comprises over half a dozen varieties The Saila dance often comes out with many variations and much buffoonery. Sometimes the dancers form a circle, each standing on one leg and supporting himself by holding on to the man in front. Then they all hop together round and round. karma Dance The Karma dance is very popular among the Gonds and the Baigas of Chhattisgarh and the Oraons of Madhya Pradesh. The Karma dance is associated with the fertility cult and is related to the Karma festival that falls in the month of August. The Karma dance symbolizes coming of green branches in tress during the spring season. There are other variants of the Karma. The songs associated with these variants differ with each pattern. kaksar Dance Kaksar dance is performed during the festival period. It is popular among the Abhujmarias of Bastar. Kaksar dance is performed in hope of reaping a rich harvest. To invoke the blessings of the deity, young boys and girls perform Kaksar (a group dance). Boys put on a peculiar costume of a long white robe while girls are clad in all their finery. The Kaksar dance presents a unique opportunity to boys and girls to choose their life partners.

folk Dances of East India

chhau (Bihar) Chhau is a popular folk dance of Bihar. Since masks form an important feature of this dance it is called Chhau, which means mask. All the Chhau performers hold swords and shields while performing. The stages are decorated and brightly lit by torches, lanterns and flickering oil lamps. The musical instruments used are the Dhol (a cylindrical drum), Nagara (a huge drum) and Shehnai (reed pipes). The Chhau dance is performed by men and boys. Chhau dance is full of energy and strength. It is interesting to note that the entire body of the dancer is engaged as a single unit. This body language of the dancer has to be poetic and powerful. Brita Dance (West Bengal) Brita dance is one of the most popular folk dances of Bengal. Usually the barren women of the region perform the Brita dance to invoke the blessings of the Gods so that their wishes are fulfilled. Traditionally this dance is performed after a person recovers from a contagious disease like small pox. Kali Naach is yet another popular folk dance of the region. The Kali dance is performed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Kali. While performing the Kali Naach, the performers wear a mask,

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folk Dances of central India

Gaur Dance Gaur dance is a popular folk dance of Madhya Pradesh dances. Gaur dance is popular in the Sing Marias or Tallaguda Marias of South Bastar. Men put headdresses with stringed cowries and plumes of peacock feathers and make

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purified by mantras and dances to the accompaniment of a sword. Dalkhai (orissa) Dalkhai dance is a popular folk dance among the women folks the tribal people of Sambalpur, Orissa. Dalkhai Dance isperformed during the time of festivals. In the Dalkhai dance the men usually play the musical instruments. Chaiti Ghora is a dummy horse version of the Dalkhai dance and is popular in the fishing communities. The performers of this dance style are generally men. Goti Puas (orissa) Goti Pua is yet another popular folk dance of east India (Orissa). The credit of popularizing this folk dance largely goes to Ramchandradeva, the Raja of Khurda, (Orissa). He was an enlightened ruler and a great patron of art and culture. It was due to his initiatives that the tradition of Goti Pua (boy dancers) began. It is interesting to note that the Odissi dance evolved from a curious amalgamation of both mahari and goti pua dance styles.

tribes of Assam have a number of folk dances. Most of these folk dances are performed during the harvest period. Similarly, the Naga tribals too have their harvest dances and celebrations. Khamba Lim is one such folk dance and is performed by two groups of men and women who stand in two rows. Another popular Naga folk dance is Akhu. Hajgiri (Tripura) Hajgiri is a famous folk dance of Tripura. Hajgiri dance is performed by young girls who display a series of balancing skills and instruments of their kind. In Tripura dances are a part of peoples efforts and ceremony to appease the goddess Lakshmi. It is to ensure good harvest. Tribal people of Tripura and other adjoining states make use of the compounds of their own houses as dancing grounds during main festivals. Nongkrem (Meghalaya) Nongkrem is an important folkdance of Meghalaya. The Khasis tribe of Meghalaya also celebrates the ripening of paddy for threshing, by dances and songs. Dhol-cholom (Manipur) One of the instruments that dominate Manipuri dances is the drum. Dhol Cholom, a drum dance is one of the dances performed during Holi in Manipur. The Thang-ta dance of Manipur was an evolved from the martial arts drills promoted bythe kings of Manipur. The dance is exciting and is performed by young men holding swords and shields. In Arunachal Pradesh, many dance and songs are performed, based on the stories of Buddha. The performers of these folk dances wear masks of demons or animals, inspired from Buddha stories. Most of these folk dances are performed inBuddhist monasteries during festivals.

Dumhal dance where the performers of this dance place a banner into the ground at a fixed location and they begin to men dance around this banner. Hikat (Himachal Pradesh) Hikat is a popular dance of Himachal Pradesh, performed by women. The Hikat dance is performed in pairs and the participants extend their arms to the front, holding each others wrists. The dancers keep their bodies inclined back and make round of the same place. In the Kulu valley of Himachal Pradesh Dussehra is celebrated with great grandeur and splendor. Singing and dancingform an important part of this festivity. Here, there are dances for different occasions and collectively all dances are called Natio. Namagen (Himachal Pradesh) Namagen is a dance performance usually held during autumnal hue celebrations. The most prominent dance amongst these is the Gaddis. In this dance the costumes are largely woolen. Hurka Baul (Uttaranchal) Some of the seasonal folk dances of Uttaranchal are Jhumeila, the Chaufula of Garhwal and the Hurka Baul of Kumaon. The Hurka Baul dance is performed during the cultivation of paddy and maize. The name of the dance is derived from Hurka, the drum which is the only musical accompaniment and baul, the song. In the Hurka Baul dance the singer narrates the story of battles and heroic deeds, the performers enter from two opposite sides and enact the stories in a series of crisp movements. The rural folk form two rows and move backwards in harmony, while responding to the tunes of the song and the rhythm of the players. Chholiya is yet another famous folk dance of Kumaon, Uttaranchal. The Chholiya dance is performed during marriages. As the procession of marriage proceeds to the brides house, the male dancers, armed with swords and shields, dance animatedly. Bhangra (Punjab) Bhangra is one of the most popular and energetic dances of India. Bhangra is performed by men folks during Baisakhi.

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Usually a Goti Pua performance is ably supported by a set of three musicians, who play the pakhawaj, cymbals and harmonium. The boys do the singing themselves, though at times the group has an additional singer. A goti pua dance performance usually commences with Bhumi Pranam (acknowledgment to Mother Earth) and wraps up with Bidahi Sangeet, a farewell song and dance item. The whole Goti Pua performance lasts around three hours.

folk Dances of North East India

Bihu (Assam) Bihu is a popular folk dance of Assam. The Bihu dance is an integral part of the Bihu festival of Assam. The Bihu festival is celebrated in mid-April, during the harvesting time and lasts for about a month. Young men and girls perform the Bihu dance together to the accompaniment of drums and pipes. Love forms the subject matter of the songs that are sung during the performance. The dances are performed in circles or parallel rows. The Zemis, Zeliangs and several other

folk Dances of North India

Dumhal (Jammu & kashmir) Dumhal is a popular dance of Kashmir. This dance is performed with long colorful robes, tall conical caps (studded with beads and shells). Dumhal dance is accompanied by songs which the performers themselves sing. It is supported by drums. There is an interesting tradition associated with

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It is among the most energetic and captivating dances of India and includes tricks and athletic feats. During the Bhangra performance the drummer is surrounded by men dressed in lungis and turbans. Luddi is yet another folk dance of the Punjab, performed by men folk. Luddi is performed to celebrate victory. In the Luddi dance the try to copy the movement of a snakes head. The dance performed by the women folk of Punjab is called the Gidha. In the Gidha dance a woman or a pair of women dance while the others surrounding her clap in rhythm. The Gidha dance is performed during the festival of Teeyan to welcome the monsoons (rains). This dance also includes a step when women go round and round with feet planted at one place. Jhoomer is a dance of graceful pace. This dance is also performed in a circle. Dancers dance around a single drummer standing in the centre. Dhamyal (Haryana) Dhamyal or Dhup is one of the most popular folk dances of Haryana. Dhamyal dance is performed either by men alone or with women. A circular drum (Dhup) is played lightly by the male dancers. The spring season is a time of celebration in Haryana. The celebration is done usually after the work in the fields has been done.

a mask for the face or a chest piece to cover the breast and abdomen of the performer. kummi (Tamil Nadu) Kummi is a popular folk dance of Tamil Nadu. Kummi dance is performed by tribal women during festivals. Kummi is a simple folk dance where dancers form circles and clap in rhythmic way. kolattam Kollattam or the stick dance is one of the most popular dances of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Kolattam is derived from Kol (a small stick) and Attam (play). It is also called as Kolannalu or Kolkolannalu. Kolattam dance is a combination of rhythmic movements, songs and music and is performed during local village festivals. Kolattam is known by different names in different states of India. The Kolattam group consists of dancers in the range of 8 to 40. The stick, used in the Kolattam dance, provides the main rhythm. Perini The Perini Thandavam is a male dance of the warriors. As a part of tradition, the warriors performed this dominant dance in front of the idol of Nataraja or Lord Shiva, before leaving for the battlefield. This is popular in some parts of Andhra Pradesh state. In earlier times the rulers of the Kakatiya dynasty patronized this form of dance. The Perini dance is performed to the accompaniment of the beat of the drums. Thapetta Gullu (Andhra Pradesh) Thapetta Gullu is a folk dance form of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. In the Thapetta Gullu dance more than ten persons participate. The participants or performers sing songs in the praise of local goddess. While performing the Thapetta Gullu dance, the dancers use drums, hanging around their necks. The dancers wear tinkling bells around their waist.

colored clothes and hang around the necks of men. The songs used in this dance usually have religious and battle fervor. The main emphasis is on quick and light movement of the feet and legs. The Dollu Kunitha dance forms a part of the ritualistic dances of the Dodavas of Karnataka. Ghode Modni (Goa) The culture of Goa bears strong European influence as it was ruled by the Portuguese for many years. Ghode Modni dance portrays the brave deeds of the Goan warriors. In the Ghode Modni (dummy horse presentation) dance, the delightfully dressed dancers perform dances armed with swords. During the Ghode Modni celebrations, people are in a mood for fun and frolic. Elaborate parades and spectacular processions are taken out, accompanied by dances of boys and girls. lava Dance of Minicoy (lakshadweep) Lava dance is a colorful and energetic dance of the Minicoy Island of Lakshadweep. During the Lava dance performance the dancers are dressed in multi-hued costumes and a headgear. They also carry a drum. The dancers perform to the rhythmic beats of drums and songs. Tarangmel (Goa) Tarangmel is an energetic and youthful dance of Goa. The Tarangmel dance is usually performed during Dussehra and Holi celebrations. During Dussehra and Holi, the energetic young girls and boys throng the streets in colorful group with flags and streamers (tarang). This gathering of young people is an invitation to everyone to join in the festive spirit. The musical instruments used during Tarangmel are romut, dhol and tasha.

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folk Dances of South India

Padayani (kerala) Padayani is one of the most colorful and popular dances of Southern Kerala. Padayani is associated with the festival of certain temples, called Padayani or Paddeni. Such temples are in Alleppey, Quilon, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam districts. The main Kolams (huge masks) displayed in Padayani are Bhairavi (Kali), Kalan (god of death), Yakshi (fairy) and Pakshi (bird). Padayani involves a series of divine and semi divine imitation, putting Kolams of different shapes and colors. In the performance of Padayani, dancers, actors, singers and instrumentalists play an important role. The actors or dancers wear Kolams that are huge headgears, with many projections and devices and

folk Dances of West India

Dandiya (Rajasthan) Dandiya is a popular folk dance of Rajasthan. Dressed in colorful costumes the performers play skillfully with big sticks in their hands. Dandiya dance is accompanied by the musical instrument called the Meddale played by the drummer in the centre.

folk Dances of South West India

Dollu kunitha (karnataka) Dollu Kunitha is a popular drum dance of Karnataka state. In the Dollu Kanitha dance, large drums are adorned with

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The Bhil tribal of Rajasthan perform a variety of dances. All these folk dances correspond to the agricultural cycle. The Ghumer dance, Raika and Jhoria are some examples of this type of dance. The Gher dance is a favorite and popular dance of the Mina tribe who are similar to the Bhils while Valar is typical dance of the Garasias of Rajasthan. Tera Tali (Rajasthan) Tera Tali is another famous folk dance of Rajasthan. It is performed by two or three women of the Kamar tribe. The women folk sit on the ground while performing the Tera Tali which is an elaborate ritual with many other rituals in it. An interesting part of the Tera Tali dance is tying of metal cymbals (Manjiras) to different parts of the body, mostly on the legs. The Tera Tali dancers hold cymbals in their hands and strike them in a rhythmic manner. On many occasions the women clasp a sword in between their teeth and balance a decorative pot on their head.

Dindi And kala Dindi and Kala are devotional dances of Maharashtra. In these dances the playful attitude of Lord Krishna is presented. Dindi is a small drum. The musicians, comprising Mridangam player and a vocalist, stand in the center and give the dancers the necessary musical background. Men and women folk perform the dance on the rhythmic music. This dance is usually performed on the Ekadashi day in the Hindu month of Kartik. Garba Garba is the leading dance of women in Gujarat. The Garba dance is associated with the fertility cult. The Garba dance is performed throughout nine nights of Navaratri, an autumn festival. Women folk come out into the open and with perforated earthen pots holding lighted lambs poised on the head sing, clap and dance a simple, circular dance, in honor of the Goddess Amba. When men also

dance by singing and clapping the dance is known as Garbi. Tippani is a popular folk dance of Saurashtra. Tippani is performed by women laborers in parts of Saurashtra. The Dhangari Gaja Dance is performed by Dhangars of Maharashtra to please their God for blessings. The Dhangari Gaja dance is performed in the traditional Marathi dresses - Dhoti, Angarakha and Pheta, accompanied by colorful handkerchiefs. Dancers move around a group of drum players. koli (Maharashtra) The Koli dance derives its name from the Koli tribe of Maharashtra. The dances of Kolis incorporate all elements of their surroundings. The Koli dance is performed by both men and women - divided into two groups. The main story of the dance is enacted by the smaller group of men and women. In this dance the Kolin or fisherwoman makes advances to the Kolis or fishermen.

Experts advice
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In order to help the candidates to identify what questions can be generated from the application form; INDIA PREPARES has divided the form in four parts. First part was discussed in the last issue (December2011). Here is the second part...
S.No. INfoRMATIoN To BE PRoVIDED IN APPlIcATIoN foRM 1. community: Sc, ST, oBc or General What are STs, SCs and OBCs and how are they defined in the Constitution- Art 341,342,366 etc. Which state is having maximum ST, SC and OBC population and which has minimum? Composition and function of NCST, NCSC, National commission for backward classes, National commission for economically backward classes, Commission for denotified tribes etc. These days there have been various instances of preventing dalits entry in temples. Give suggestions to tackle this issue and what do you know about its history. Protection and developmental safeguards for ST, SC and OBC in Constitution. Any question can be framed on the issue/provision of STs traditional rights, forest rights or problems of rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced persons. What is the upper limit of creamy layer in OBC? Should this creamy layer formula be applied in SC & ST group also? PRoBABlE QUESTIoNS WHIcH cAN BE RAISED fRoM THE DATA PRoVIDED

2.

Whether belong to creamy layer

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3.

citizenship Minority community

Recent decision to increase the limit of creamy layer upto 12 lakhs is logical or not? Give views. Citizenship and constitutional status. India and dual citizenship i.e. OCI &PIO card. Difference between NRI & PIO. Views on provision of voting rights to NRIs. Recent organisation of Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas, issues discussed during it, chronology and history of PBD. Contribution of Pravasi Bhartiyas in Indias educational, cultural, economic, technical development. Issues regarding citizenship and Constitutional posts. Important NRIs who where recently in news. eg. Bobby Jindal, Kamalesh Sharma, Rajat Gupta, Mohan Kohli etc. Status of Indian Diaspora in various continents and their achievements in those places. Importance of citizenship in this globalized world. What is a minority? Difference between religious and linguistic minority, their specific problems. There is no clear-cut definition of a minority which leads to various problems of administration. Do you agree? Philosophy of Sarva Dharma Samabhav and Indian secularism. Constitutional protection for the minorities including linguistic minorities and various developmental safeguards. Controversy about recent communal violence bill and your own opinion (i.e. anything that has recently happened related to minorities should be well read and thought out). Equal Opportunities Commission, Diversity Index, Ranganath Mishra committee, Sachhar committee recommendations and ones own opinion about these committees. Many states have provided reservation to Muslim communities e.g. Andhra Pradesh, W.Bengal etc. What is yur take on it and should it be introduced at the national level. Views about Uniform Civil Code and Indian polity in a pluralistic society. Can this code be applied? Problems of linguistic minorities in different regions such as people of UP, Bihar in Maharashtra. Influence of socio-cultural practices of majority community on minority community. Give examples. How the feeling of caste consciousness has crept into the minority community and is disturbing its egalitarian character? There is no particular question regarding this issue, however it depends on the mood of the interviewer to frame questions. Chances of asking personal question are pretty rare. However they can ask questions about the profession of your spouse. Female candidates can be asked how they managed a balance between marital respnsibilities and civil services preparation. Male candidates can be asked about their views about dowry, feminism etc. Candidates who are already parents can be questioned about issues like child care centres, sharing domestic work with their spouse etc.

4.

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Marital status

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6.

Place of birth: district, town, state etc. Mother tongue Email id

Similar questions as discussed in the address for correspondence column can be framed.

7. 8.

You should have complete information about Vlll schedule. In case of Hindi as mother tongue, read the measures about promotion of Hindi as national language. When is National Hindi day and National Hindi week celebrated? Art.343, 350, 350A...etc. must be known to you. Recently added languages in VIII schedule and how they can be promoted as a medium of education in their own region. Growing linguistic consciousness is breeding regionalism and intolerance. Views. Regional language and traditional knowledge, protection of intellectual property rights. For eg. traditional system of medicine(sowa rigpa, siddha etc.) Role of regional cinema in national integration. IT revolution and saga of Indias development. The candidate must know each and every thing about his/her email id. For eg. If one is having email id on Gmail then he/she must know that who is founder of Google etc. This information can be easily gathered through Wikipedia. Role of social networking sites in information exchange and dissemination. IPV4 vs IPV6 issue. Recent governmental steps to regulate the social networking sites and your opinion. Internet as a new means of terrorising the society. How can this be tackled? The scourge of e-waste, problem of phishing. The recent IT act 2008 and cyber crime. Indias preparation for cyber security in light of growing threat to its identity. Issues of online gambling, pornography, vandalising governmental sites etc. Digital divide across the country. e-governance and good governance, recent steps by the government to promote e-governance. What is ISD & STD? Various zones of telecom department. Advantages and disadvantages of landline & cellular phone. Difference between 2G, 3G, 4G etc. GPRS, EDGE technology etc. Recent 2G scam and crony capitalism. Issues of public grievances and various telecom service providers. How to promote banking services through phone? Cellular phones and telemedicine, idea of tele-education etc. Has the time come to switch for m-governance from e-governance. Is it feasible? Sound understanding about the value added services on phone as the interviewer might be new to this technology so he/she will try to gain information from you, so answer all question in common language and not in technical words. Will be continued in the next issue...

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9.

Phone number

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KNoW It ALL
SPoRtS
AtHLEtICS
Delhi Half Marathon Lelisa Desisa of Ethiopia has emerged victorious in the mens elite category, while Kenyas Lucy Kabuu won the womens title at the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon. Last editions runner-up Desisa faced stiff competition from the Kenyan duo of Geoffrey Kipsang and Mike Kigen, who finished second and third respectively. In the womens event, Kabuu led a Kenyan sweep, winning the race with her compatriot Sharon Cherop settled for silver. Last years winner, Ethiopias Aselefch Mergia, failed to defend her title and settled for bronze. Two-time winner and course record holder Deriba Merga of Ethiopia pulled out of the event due to an injury. Merga, ranked fourth in the world and winner of titles in 2008 and 2009, holds the course record of 59.15 min clocked in 2008, which is his personal best in this distance. Suresh Kumar finished first among Indian men and overall 20th in the race. Lalita Babbar successfully defended her title and was the fastest woman among Indians. Prince William, Kate Named as olympic Ambassadors U.K.s Royal officials said Prince William, his wife Kate and Brother Prince Harry will be official ambassadors to the 2012 London Olympic Games. St. Jamess Palace said that all three will play an active role in encouraging and inspiring the British public to rally behind the Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The royals join 27 British Olympians from previous games, who were unveiled as 2012 ambassadors by the British Olympic Association earlier this year. IoA to set up Athletes Commission In a significant move, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has decided to set up an 11-member Athletes Commission. The IOA has also decided to give more representation to sportspersons in its general assembly and executive board with full voting rights. The 11 members will be picked by sportspersons who have qualified for the 2012 London Olympics. The sportspersons selected/qualified for the London Olympics will, among themselves, select the members for the commission, the IOA said. Two members will be elected to the IOAs General Assembly and one to the Executive Board. They will have the privilege of full voting rights. An Olympic monitoring committee, to be launched soon, will have one sportsperson, who has qualified for the London Games from each discipline, as its member. He added that there was a proposal to form an Olympian Association of India. The most successful countries over the history of the tournament are the United States (winning 32 tournaments and finishing as runners-up 29 times) and Australia (winning 28 times, including four occasions with New Zealand under the name Australasia, and finishing as runners-up 19 times).

MotoR SPoRtS
Kimi Raikkonen Former world champion Kimi Raikkonen of Finland returns to Formula One racing next year at the Lotus Renault team. Lotus Renault has said in a statement that Raikkonen, 32, has signed a two year deal for the 2012 and 2013 seasons. Raikkonen won the world title in 2007 for Ferrari and originally retired from the sport at the end of 2009 to compete in rally racing. First linked with an F1 return at Williams, Raikkonen has won 18 races and earned 16 pole positions in his first F1 term over 156 Grands Prix 2001 2009.

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tENNIS
Nadal Secures Fifth Davis Cup title for Spain Rafael Nadal got the winning point as Spain has won a fifth Davis Cup title. The World No. 2 beat Argentinas Juan Martin del Potro to give the host a 3-1 win, rallying from a set down to see off the 2009 US Open champion 1-6, 6-4, 6-1, 7-6 (0). Spain previously won the titles in 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2009. But there was more heartbreak for Argentina which became the first nation to lose four finals it also lost to Spain in the final three years ago at home. The Davis Cup is the premier international team event in mens tennis. It is run by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and is contested between teams of players from competing countries in a knock-out format. The competition began in 1900 as a challenge between Britain and the United States. By 2007, 137 nations entered teams into the competition.

GoLF
tata open Golf Delhis Vinod Kumar has emerged champion of the 10th Tata Open Golf at Beldih golf course in Jamshedpur. Kumar produced three under 68 in the fourth round totalling eight under 276 (68-7664-68) to earn the prize money of Rs 8, 08,250. Vivek Bhandari (70-65-73-69) and former Asia No 1 Jyoti Randhawa (71-65-68-73) tied at seven under 277 to become richer by Rs 4, 35,750 each. While Bhandari scored two under 69 in the final round, Randhawa produced two over 73.

WEIGHtLIFtING
Karnam Malleswari Resigns from IWF Sydney Olympics bronze medallist Karnam Malleswari has reportedly resigned as the vice president of Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWF). According to reports,

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Malleswari was upset with the way the IWF was working and felt that the federation was being run by people who do not know anything about the sport. Malleswari, countrys first woman to win an Olympic medal, also complained of politics in IWF and felt that the performance of the lifters has gone down considerably under the current regime. Malleswari, a few months back, had accused coach Ramesh Malhotra of sexually harassing lifters under his charge. 48th Men Junior National Weightlifting Championship Andhra Pradesh has lifted the winners trophy in the mens team event at the 48th Men Junior National Weightlifting Championship at Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh. Manipur won the womens title. Orissa took the mens runners up trophy while Andhra Pradesh was second best in the womens category. Neeraj Sharma of Delhi in 77 kg weight with a total lift of 290 kg was adjudged the best lifter in the mens and Archana Gupta of Uttar Pradesh in 48 kg class with a total lift of 155 kg won the honour in womens events.

Egypt Withdraws from Hockeys olympic Qualifier in New Delhi Indias Olympic Qualifier hockey tournament for men will feature a team less as Egypt has pulled out of the event due to financial problems caused by political strife in the county. Seif Ahmed, president of Egypts hockey federation, said Egypt had intimated to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) that it would not be playing in the qualifying competitions. Egyptian mens hockey team finished second behind South Africa in the All-Africa Games, where a victory would have secured them a direct spot in the Olympic lineup. Out of 12 teams to feature in the Olympic Games, nine places have already been allocated, and the remaining three will come from three Olympic Qualifiers to be played in India, Ireland and Japan. Eight-time gold medalists India will play at home in the New Delhi qualifier, where the other contenders for the lone Olympic Games spot will now be Canada, France, Poland and the United States.

group. One of Indias largest conglomerates with interests in diverse sectors such as telecom, automobile, engineering and hotels, the group is worth more than $70 billion dollars. Mr.Ratan Tata has been its chairman since 1991. The transition process has been set in motion with the appointment of Mr.Mistry as the Deputy Chairman of Tata Sons at a meeting of its Board of Directors in Mumbai. Mr.Mistry has been on the board of Tata Sons since August 2006. In the next one year, Mr.Mistry will work as an understudy of Mr. Tata, before eventually taking over from him when the latter retires. Mr.Mistry is a graduate of civil engineering from Imperial College of London, and has a Master of Science in Management from the London Business School. Sherry Rehman The former Information Minister, Sherry Rehman, has been designated to become Pakistans Ambassador to the U.S. following the resignation of Husain Haqqani over the memogate controversy (a 2011 controversy about an alleged Pakistani memo seeking the help of the US Government). Her selection was announced by the Prime Ministers Office and was immediately interpreted as a sign of consensus between the civil and military leadership. A close associate of the former Prime Minister, Benazir Bhutto, Ms. Rehman was a journalist before she joined politics. She resigned from the Cabinet over restrictions on the media. She is also chair of two Track-II dialogue processes with India. James Murdoch James Murdoch, head of Rupert Murdochs British media group News International, has been re-elected chairman of broadcaster BSkyB, despite a number of key shareholders voting against him because of his links with the News of the World phone-hacking scandal. Rebels wanted Mr.Murdoch, who is deputy chief operating officer of News Corporation, replaced by an independent chairman. Figures announced, immediately after the

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APPoINtED/ELECtED
Gopalkrishna Gandhi Former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi has been appointed chairman of Chennai-based Kalakshetra Foundation. The Central government has notified the appointment of Mr. Gandhi, who would hold the office for five years, a release from the foundation said in Chennai. Mr. Gandhi, a noted music and dance enthusiast and a writer of distinction, having authored numerous books and a play, replaces Justice S. Mohan. Cyrus P. Mistry Cyrus P. Mistry (43) will be crowned chairman of Tata Sons and king of the Tata Empire when Ratan N Tata formally retires in December 2012 on reaching the age of 75. Considered a dark horse, Mr. Mistry is at present Managing Director of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group. He is also on the board of Tata Sons, the holding company which controls the Tata Group. Mr.Mistry is the youngest son of construction tycoon Pallonji Mistry, who also owns a significant stake in the

SHootING
Asian Shotgun Championship Man Singh struck brilliant form as he shot 149 out of 150 to win the skeet gold in the Asian shotgun championship in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday. He started with a 24 in the first round and followed that with 25 in every round, including the final, for the Asian record. The skeet team, with Mairaj Ahmad Khan (119) and P. P. Singh (116) as the other members, also accounted for the gold.

FootbALL
Socrates Former Brazil captain Socrates has died of septic shock. He was 57. The former playmaker captained Brazil in the 1982 and 1986 World Cups and is a popular columnist and television commentator in the South American country.

HoCKEy

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meeting, show that he got 81.24 per cent of the vote with 18.76 per cent voting against. Abdelilah benkirane The leader of a moderate Islamist party, Abdelilah Benkirane has been appointed by King Mohammed VI as Moroccos new prime minister. His Justice and Development Party (PJD) has not been in government before, but emerged as the biggest party in the recently held parliamentary elections. Under a new constitution approved by referendum in July, the king has to choose a prime minister from the party that won the most seats. Abdelilah Benkirane will now hold talks on forming a coalition government. The new constitution also gives the prime minister more powers to govern, but the king still has the final say on issues of defence, security and religion. The PJDs victory follows that of Tunisias Islamist Ennahda Party in an election there last month. Fatou bensouda Fatou Bensouda has been named the new International Criminal Court chief prosecutor. The 50-year-old lawyer from Gambia serves as the deputy to Luis Moreno-Ocampo, whose term ends next year. She previously worked as a legal adviser at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda in Tanzania. A successor to Luis Moreno-Ocampo was formally elected by the Assembly of States Parties - the body representing the 119 countries that support the tribunal - at its annual meeting in New York on 12 December. Earlier it had been agreed that Mr Ocampos successor should be an African and the only other candidate, Tanzanias Mohamed Chande Othman, had withdrawn. The ICC, based in The Hague, is the worlds first permanent war crimes tribunal and began operating in 2002. The ICCs cases are currently all in Africa, and some of the continents leaders have accused it of only pursuing Africans. However, nine years after the court came into being it still has not secured a conviction. The ICC is currently holding suspects in custody who are accused of committing atrocities in the following

countries: Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Kenya and Ivory Coast Donald Ramotar Electoral officials in Guyana have said that Donald Ramotar of the governing Peoples Progressive Party (PPP/C) is to be the next president. Mr Ramotar has been the General Secretary of the PPP/C since 1997 and was a political adviser to outgoing President Bharrat Jagdeo. But the party, mainly backed by Guyanas ethnic-Indians, lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 19 years. This could make it difficult for Mr Ramotar if opposition parties opt to work together. The PPP/C gets most of its support from the Indo-Guyanese community, while its chief challenger, APNU, is backed mainly by Afro-Guyanese voters. Guyana has a parliamentary system, under which the majority partys candidate assumes the presidency. Nearly half a million people were eligible to vote in the election. Kamal al-Ganzouri Egypts ruling military council has appointed former Prime Minister Kamal al-Ganzouri to lead a transitional government. The previous civilian cabinet resigned earlier recently amid violent protests calling for an immediate transfer of power to a civilian government. AlGanzouri, 78, was prime minister under President Hosni Mubarak from 1996 to 1999. The military rulers, who took power in February after the overthrow of Mubarak, said they would hand over power as soon as possible to an elected civilian government, at a joint press conference with the election commission in Cairo. It was all the more important to stick to the scheduled parliamentary elections, due to roll out in three phases ending in January, the committee said. A new president was to be elected by the end of June. AlGanzouri is to put together a transitional government to rule for the few months until then. Al-Ganzouri resigned in 1999 as privatization and liberalization initiatives were losing momentum, and a currency

crisis shook the confidence of foreign investors. Parliamentarians accused him of an autocratic leadership style. Newt Gingrich US House of Representatives speaker Newt Gingrich has emerged as the new leader of the race for the Republican presidential nomination, well positioned to scoop up conservative support of fallen Tea Party favorite Herman Cain. Cains withdrawal amid allegations of sexual misconduct has set off a scramble among Republicans vying to run against President Barack Obama in 2012, with analysts tipping Gingrich as the most likely beneficiary of the narrowing field. Defying the odds, Gingrich has come back from near collapse to surge past default-frontrunner Mitt Romney in recent weeks as Cain fought off the sexual misconduct allegations that finally forced his withdrawal from the race. With the first 2012 election contest to be held in Iowa in less than a months time, a new poll made public by The Des Moines Register showed Gingrich to be the clear front-runner with 25 percent support, as Romney slipped to third place.

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REtIRES/RESIGNED/ SUSPENDED
Herman Cain US presidential hopeful Herman Cain has said he is suspending his campaign for the Republican nomination. He blamed political and media pressure on his family in the wake of false allegations of sexual harassment and a 13-year-long extra-marital affair. Last week, an Atlanta woman, Ginger White, 46, came forward to claim she had a 13-year affair with Mr Cain. Joao Havelange Former FIFA president Joao Havelange has resigned from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) days before an ethics hearing into his conduct. The 95-year-old was facing suspension over his involvement with FIFAs former marketing agency International Sport and Leisure (ISL). It is claimed in 2010 that Havelange accepted money from ISL for

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granting lucrative World Cup contracts. Havelange competed in the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin as a swimmer and the 1952 Games in Helsinki in the Brazilian water polo team before he joined the Brazilian Olympic Committee in 1955.

Chargesheet was recently released under the banner of Navketan International Films, a production company he launched in 1949. The presence of his discoveries in the 1970sZeenat, and later Tina Munim, in films and his good onscreen chemistry with beautiful young stars like Rakhee, Parveen Babi, Hema Malini, Zeenat Aman in various films boosted Devs image as the evergreen star even though he was well into his fifties. Ustad Sultan Khan Sarangi maestro and classical singer Ustad Sultan Khan, the soulful voice behind hits like Piya basanti and Albela sajan aayo re, has passed away after prolonged illness. The Padma Bhushan awardee, 71, who hailed from a family of sarangi players in Jodhpur, was on dialysis for some time. Credited for reviving sarangi, Mr. Khan is famous for his extraordinary control over the instrument and his husky voice. He started performing at a the age of 11, and later collaborated at the international level with sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, on George Harrisons 1974 Dark Horse World Tour. Ustad Sultan Khan also worked with musicians from the Hindi film industry, such as Lata Mangeshkar, Khayyam, Sanjay Leela Bhansali apart from collaborating with musicians in the West. Apart from Padma Bhushan, Mr. Khan won numerous musical awards including the Sangeet Natya Academy Award twice, the Gold Medalist Award of Maharashtra and the American Academy of Artists Award in 1998. oscar Maron Filho Brazilian film director Oscar Maron Filho, who was in Goa to attend the ongoing IFFI, has died after suffering a heart attack. He was 56. Filho was speaking at the open forum when he suffered a heart attack. He was rushed to the Goa Medical College and hospital where he breathed his last. Filho, the director of biggest production house Atlantica Cinematographica in Brazil, was in Goa with his film Mario Filho: The Creator of

Crowds as a part of the Soccer package. Svetlana Alliluyeva Erstwhile Soviet Unions leader Joseph Stalins only daughter, Svetlana Alliluyeva, who changed her name later as Lana Peters has died in obscurity at the age of 85 in Wisconsin, United States. Ms. Peters had denounced communism and defected from India to the United States in the late 1960s. Her defection in 1967 caused an international furore and was partly motivated by the poor treatment by Soviet authorities of Indian communist Brijesh Singh, with whom she had a relationship. She left the Soviet Union in 1966 for India, where she planned to leave the ashes of Mr. Singh who had died in the USSR. Instead of returning to her country, she walked unannounced into the US embassy in New Delhi and asked for political asylum, shocking many. Ms. Peters carried with her a memoir to the US that she had written in 1963 about her life in Russia. Twenty Letters to a Friend was published within months of her arrival in the US and became a best-seller. In the book, she recalled her father, who died in 1953 after ruling the nation for 29 years, as a distant and paranoid man. She denounced Stalins policies, which included sending millions into labour camps. Ken Russell Ken Russell, one of Britains most daring film-makers and hailed for his raucous 1969 adaptation of D.H. Lawrences novel Women in Love which won him an Oscar nomination, has died at the age of 84. Russell established a reputation for his unconventional method of filmmaking and his films were known as much for their theme as his innovative style. His other controversial works included the religious drama The Devils and the rock opera, Tommy. Christa Wolf Christa Wolf, one of the best known authors from the former East Germany, has died in Berlin at the age of 82 after a long illness. In works including Cassandra and Medea, she explored power shifts and war, as experienced by women. Wolf courted controversy throughout her career

DIED/KILLED
Dev Anand Hindi cinemas legendary hero Dev Anand has passed away after a cardiac arrest in London. He was 88. He was borned as Dharam Dev Pishorimal in 26 September 1923. His career spanned more than 65 years with acting in 114 Hindi films of which 110 have him play the main lead actor. His inimitable style, active lifestyle and never-say-die spirit earned him the title Evergreen. Ruling the roost in Hindi cinema for decades, Dev Anand won the Filmfare Best Actor Awards for his role in Kala Pani in 1958 and for the cult film, Guide, in 1966. He also won the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991. In 2001, he was bestowed Padma Bhushan, the countrys third highest civilian honour. A year later, he won the Dadasaheb Phalke award for cinematic excellence. He debuted in Hum Ek Hain (1946). During 1950s he became romantically involved with Suraiya and together made several block buster movies like Vidya (1948), Jeet (1949), Shair (1949), Afsar (1950), Nili (1950), Do Sitare (1951) and Sanam (1951). In the sixties, Dev Anand acquired a romantic image with films like Manzil and Tere Ghar Ke Samne, Kinaare Kinaare, Jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai and Teen Deviyaan. Along with Kalpana Kartik, Dev Anand made several films like Baazi, Aandhiyan, Taxi Driver, House No. 44 and Nau Do Gyarah. Later he married to Kalpana Kartik. His first colour film, Guide with Waheeda Rehman was based on the novel of the same name by R. K. Narayan. His other hit movies are Jewel Thief and Johny Mera Naam. Dev Anand turned to direction later in his career. His directorial debut, Prem Pujari, was a flop. He tasted success with his 1971 directorial effort, Hare Rama Hare Krishna. His movie

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and had links to the East German Stasi police in the 1960s. In 2010, she won Germanys Thomas Mann prize for writing about the struggles, hopes and mistakes of her age. She won numerous awards throughout her life including the Georg Buchner prize, in 1980, and was a double winner of East Germanys national literary prize. Her most recent work, Leibhaftig (2002), detailed the struggle of a woman in a 1980s East German hospital, awaiting medication from the West. Kishenji Communist Party of India (Maoist) Polit Bureau member KoteshwarRao alias Kishenji, who has been spearheading Maoist operations in West Bengals Jangalmahal region, has been killed in an encounter in the Burisole forest area in Paschim Medinipur district of the state. Joint security forces, led by Superintendent of Police Praveen Tripathi, had launched massive combing operations in the Kushbani forest area bordering Jharkhand very recetnly. Indira Goswami Eminent litterateur and peacemaker Dr. Indira Goswami has passed away at the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, after prolonged illness. She was 69. She was known by her pen name, Mamoni Raisom Goswami. Winner of Indias highest literary award Jnanpith, Goswami acted as a peace broker between the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and New Delhi. But she gave it up in 2005. Her widely acclaimed writings, especially Nilkanthi Broja and The Moth Eaten Howdah of a Tusker have universal appeal and show a sensitive depiction of the trauma of widowhood. Her Chinnamastar Manuhto (The Man from Chinnamasta) focuses on protests against animal sacrifice at Kamakhya Temple. Her autobiography, Adha Likha Dostabej (A half-written autobiography) has been translated into several Indian languages. Her novel Dontal Hatir Une Khowda Howda (The Moth Eaten Howdah of a Tusker), is set in Amranga sattra (a Vaishnavite monastery) of the village. Mario Miranda

Noted cartoonist Mario Miranda passed has passed away. He was 85. Miranda had also designed several books during his career and was known for his cartoons on Goan life, which received acclaim at the international level. The cartoonist, who was based in Loutolim village, was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2002 and Padma Shri in 1988.

Oslo, killing eight people. After that, he went to the island of Utoeya, some 40 km northwest of Oslo, where, disguised as a police officer, he spent nearly an hour and a half methodically shooting and killing another 69 people attending a summer camp, most of them teenagers. Shah Mahmood Qureshi Former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has joined cricketer-turnedpolitician Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf party, giving it a boost in the run up to the general election scheduled for 2013. Mr. Qureshi, recently quit the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party after being estranged from it earlier this year. Julian Assange WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been given permission to take to the Supreme Court his year-long legal battle against extradition to Sweden over allegations of sexual misconduct brought by two Swedish women. The High Court in London certified that the case raised ``a question of general public importance and should be heard by the highest court. Laurent Gbagbo Ivory Coasts Laurent Gbagbo has become the first former head of state to appear at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. He faces four charges of crimes against humanity, including murder and rape, in the wake of Ivory Coasts disputed presidential elections a year ago. Some 3,000 people were killed in violence after Mr Gbagbo refused to accept defeat in the 2010 polls. He was not asked to plead but has denied responsibility for the violence. The 66-year-old has also rejected accusations that the elections were rigged and accuses former colonial power France of plotting to topple him from power in the worlds biggest cocoa producer. The charges relate to events between 16 December 2010 and 12 April 2011, when Mr Gbagbo was arrested after UN forces helped bomb pro-Gbagbo positions, after pro-Ouattara forces had entered the main city, Abidjan. Pratibha Patil After taking off in the frontline Sukhoi-

PERSoN IN NEWS
Kanimozhi After spending more than six months in Tihar Jail, DMK MP Kanimozhi has been released from Tihar Jail, a day after she was granted bail by the Delhi high court in the 2G case. In addition to Ms. Kanimozhi, other accused in the case released were Kalaignar TV director Sharad Kumar, Bollywood filmmaker Karim Morani and Kusegaon Fruits and Vegetables Pvt. Ltd. promoters Rajiv Aggarwal and Asif Balwa. M. F. Husain Painter M. F. Husains documentary Through the Eyes of the Painter, a film on his own journey through Rajasthan, has been screened at the 42nd International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa 2011. The screening was a tribute to the painter who died recently. Anders behring breivik Anders Behring Breivik, who killed 77 people in twin attacks in Norway last July, may never go to jail after psychiatrists ruled him criminally insane, prosecutors have said. Instead, the 32year-old gunman could spend the rest of his life in a mental institution. The 243page psychiatric report, which must still be reviewed by a committee of forensic experts, found that Behring Breivik had developed paranoid schizophrenia over time. The two experts who conducted 13 interviews over 36 hours with the rightwing extremist described a person in his own delusional universe. The report concluded that Behring Breivik had grandiose illusions whereby he believes he is to determine who is to live and who is to die. On July 22, he first set off a car bomb outside government buildings in

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30 MKI, President Pratibha Patil has once again donned military fatigues to ride a T-90 main battle tank, becoming the first head of state to do so. Dressed in black overalls worn by the personnel of the tank regiments, the 76-year-old President entered the exercise Sudarshan Shakti in Barmer riding in the main battle tank with Army Chief General V K Singh. This is her second ride in a military vehicle as she flew the Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft at the Lohegaon air base in Pune in 2009. The President along with the Defence Minister A.K Antony reviewd the ongoing exercise in the deserts of Rajasthan involving over 50,000 troops, 300 tanks and 250 artillery guns. The exercise also involved operation by aircraft such as Su-30 MKI, Jaguars, Mig27 and Mig-21 AWACS and helicopters. Jawaharlal Nehru Joins Singapores Coveted Club Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru has joined the elite club of Singapore christened Friends to our Shore. So far only four world personalities are members of the coveted club. The club is in memory of their contribution to shaping the contemporary world history and their strong connection to Singapore. The other four markers are located in the name of Polish-English writer Joseph Conrad (2004); Father of modern Vietnam Ho Chi Minh (2008); Filipino revolutionary leader Jose Rizal (2008) and Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping (2010). CAG Vinod Rai Elected U.N. External Audit Panel Chief Indias Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) Vinod Rai has been elected chairman of the panel of external auditors of the United Nations. He succeeds Norbert Hauser, Vice-President of the Federal Court of Auditors, Germany. Apart from Mr. Rai, CAG Director-General Jagbans Singh has been elected chairman of the technical group of the panel. The panel of independent external auditors carries out audits and reports periodically on the accounts and management of the U.N., specialised agencies such as the World Health

Organisation, the World Food Programme and the World Intellectual Property Organisation and the International Atomic Energy Agency. Formed through a resolution by the U.N. General Assembly in 1959, the panel comprises individual external auditors who are the heads of supreme audit institutions of various countries.

of the Rashtrakuta King, Krishna III, were found at Vallimalai village in Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. Vallimalai is situated close to Melpadi village, which served as the military encampment of the king during the middle of the 10th century C.E. It is about 50 km from Takkolam, where the king defeated the Chola prince Rajaditya, son of Parantaka Chola I, in a battle in 949 C.E. The inscriptions one in Tamil and the other in Kannada were discovered by archaeologist K. Kumar while visiting Vallimalai two months ago. The Tamil inscription came to light when workers dug up a trench. The inscriptions record that Krishna III, while camping at Melpadi (Melpaadikku vanthirunthu, as mentioned in the Tamil inscription) gifted Mahendrapadi as jivitham, after auditing the village accounts and exempting it from all imposts, to Disai-idang Gaganadeva Appaiyan, an immigrant from Karanjikheta area in the Krishna valley. The Kannada inscription says the endowment was made in the presence of Krishna IIIs feudatories, Rattas and Bitti Raja, who were staying at Melpadi. Krishna III was eulogised as Akalavarsha Deva, Prithvi Vallabha, Maha Rajathiraja, Parameshvara, Parama Bhattaraka and Chaleka Nallathan, indicating that he was yet to accomplish his conquests of Kancheepuram and Thanjavur as recorded in the later-day inscriptions issued by him, according to Dr. Kumar. Capital Delhi @ 100 As Delhi completes 100 years of being the capital on December 12, 2011. Delhi has extended from what was Shahjahanabad, the city that Shahjahan built as his capital in 1638. On this occasion A book on the history of seven cities of Delhi Red Fort to Raisina, edited by J.P. Losty, Union Minister Salman Khursheed, conservation architect Ratish Nanda and publisher of Seminar Malvika Singh was released by Ms. Dikshit.

PLACES IN NEWS
Poultry India 2011, Hyderabad The 5th edition of Poultry India 2011 has been held in Hyderabad with representatives of the sector seeking research and development support and an enabling policy network from the Government of India. According to a survey, the Rs. 55,000-crore poultry sector generates direct and indirect employment to about 6.2 million people, a number projected to go up to 8.2 million by 2015. Poultry continued to be most resilient and one of the fastest-growing sector among the agriculture allied sectors in India, with a growth of six and nine per cent for eggs and poultry meat respectively, in the past three years, despite the avian influenza (bird flu). Chair for tagore Studies in Scotland Edinburgh Napier University in Scotland will soon establish a visiting Chair for Tagore studies, according to a memorandum of understanding that the university has signed with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The university also plans to open a Scottish Centre for Tagore Studies which it hopes will become an international hub for promoting Indian culture, education, philosophy, art and literature. The ICCR will also be funding two Ph.D. fellowships dedicated to researching the works of Rabindranath Tagore. Tagores association with Scotland can be traced back to his industrialist and entrepreneur grandfather Dwarkanath Tagore. He was honoured with the Freedom of the City award by Edinburgh in 1845. tamil, Kannada Inscriptions Found in Vellore village Two inscriptions belonging to the reign

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AWARDS
Ernesto Illy trieste Science Prize

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for 2011
C.N.R. Rao, Honorary President of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, has been awarded the Ernesto Illy Trieste Science Prize for 2011 in recognition of his contributions to materials research. The award, instituted by the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World, was presented in Trieste, Italy. It comprises a cash prize of $100,000, a medal and citation.

Tavernier.

Cervantes Prize
Chilean poet Nicanor Parra has won the Cervantes Prize, the Spanish-speaking worlds highest literary honour, it has been announced. The prestigious plaudit comes with a cash award of 125,000 euros (107,000). Parra, now aged 97, is considered one of the most important poets of Spanish language writing. Also a mathematician, his anti-poetry which mixes colloquial language with old-fashioned verse - is very influential in Latin America. He published his first collection of verse in 1937 and won Chiles National Literature Award in 1969 and 1981. The Cervantes Prize will be handed out on 23 April, the anniversary of the Don Quixote authors death in 1616.

talent in various fields.

Guardian First book Award

Indian-born American physician Siddhartha Mukherjees Pulitzer-winning biography of cancer, The Emperor of All Maladies, has won the 10,000 prestigious Guardian First Book award beating four formidable contenders, including Amy Waldmans acclaimed The Submission, about the post-9/11 Islamophobia in America. Dr. Mukherjee, who is assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University and is now, writing a second book, called it A Great and Distinct Honour. The book, which traces the history of cancer from the first recorded mastectomy in 500 BC and was initially rejected by publishers, who said nobody would like to read about cancer, became an instant sensation winning a series of prestigious awards including a Pulitzer Prize for general non-fiction.

INS Homi bhabha Achievement Award

Lifetime

Former director, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Baldev Raj has been presented the INS Homi Bhabha Lifetime Achievement award.

42nd International Film Festival of India

Another Planet, directed by Smita Bhide, won the Golden Lamp Tree Award with a cash prize of Rs. 4 lakh in the fourth international competition of the Short Film Centre at the 42nd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. It won the award for the stunning depiction of a timeless contemporary but timeless India that heads as a sweet child and captures battle between making a choice that saves one life and destroys another. A choice no child should have to face, read the citation. The Vasudha Award for the best film on environmental issues with a cash prize of Rs. 2.75 lakh went to A Pestering Journey, directed by Mr. K. R. Manoj. The film focuses on the impact of pesticides and insecticide on human life. The Silver Lamp Tree Award with a cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh was given to Crazy Beats Strong Every Time directed by Moon Molson. The Special Jury Award with a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakh went to Khule Darwaaze (open doors) directed by Ashish Pandey. A Special Jury Award for a Goan film in international competition (cash prize of Rs. 50,000) went to Anthony Gonsalves The Music Legend, directed by Ashok Rane. Life Time Achievement award, which was revived after almost 10 years, was conferred on French film maker Bertrand

Sanskriti Awards
Five youths, who stood out in the fields of literature, journalism, art, music and social achievement, have been awarded by the Sanskriti Pratishthan. The awards were given away by former President A P J Abdul Kalam at the Sanskriti Awards2011 function. Shahida Shabnum: This girl from Daril in Kupwara district, J&K, received the award for literature. Rana Ayyub: In her career of seven years, Ayyub has been credited with writing investigative stories on various issues, from Naxal hotbeds across the country to the LTTE in Sri Lanka. Murad Ali: A sixth generation Sarangi player, he began performing at the age of ten. Murad, who has performed across the world, received the Sarangi Ratna Award in 2010. Abhishek Hazra: A visual artist from Bangalore, Abhishek explores the intersections between technology and culture through animated shorts and peformance. Vinayak Lohani: An IIT and IIM graduate, he started a childrens home called Parivaar. It has now evolved into an organisation based in West Bengal and working for the development of children. The Sanskriti Awards, constituted in 1979, recognise and encourage young

ANR National Award

Hema Malini, the Dreamgirl who made her first two films in Telugu before taking the Hindi film industry by storm and reigning supreme for close to two and a half decades, has been chosen for the 7 Akkineni Nageswara Rao National Award, 2011. The award would be given away at a function here on December 26. The annual award was instituted in 2005 by the Akkineni International Foundation with intent to recognise the contribution of stalwarts in the film industry. The first to be chosen was Dev Anand. Others include Shabana Azmi (2006), Anjali Devi (2007), Vyjayantimala Bali (2008), Lata Mangeshkar (2009) and K. Balachander in 2010. Film buffs would remember that Hema Malini, who earned the sobriquet Dreamgirl in the Hindi film industry, started her career in 1965 with the film Pandava Vanavasam, where she appeared in a dance number. Her second film was also in Telugu in 1971 Sri Krishna Vijayam, in which she essayed the role of a dancer in Indralokam (Heaven).

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QuEStIONS@IP...

CuRRENt AffAIRS QuEStIONS@IP

1. Recently Election Commission has added one more clause to the existing clause for the recognition of a State party. Which one of the following is correct? (a) Even if a Party fails to win any seat in a State in a general election to the Lok Sabha, the party will still be eligible for recognition as State Party if it secures 8% or more of the total valid votes polled. (b) Even if a Party fails to win any seat in a State in a general election to the Lok Sabha or Legislative Assembly of the State, the party will still be eligible for recognition as State Party if it secures 10% or more of the total valid votes polled in the State. (c) Even if a Party fails to win any seat in a State in a general election to the Legislative Assembly of the State, the party will still be eligible for recognition as State Party if it secures 10% or more of the total valid votes polled in the State. (d) Even if a Party fails to win any seat in a State in a general election to the Lok Sabha or Legislative Assembly of the State, the party will still be eligible for recognition as State Party if it secures 8% or more of the total valid votes polled in the State. 2. Which one of the following statements related to Multi-sectoral Development Programme is incorrect? 1. The programme was launched in 2008-09 is a special area development programme for the welfare of schedule tribe population. 2. It is being implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. 3. The primary objective of the programme is to improve the backwardness parameters of the districts identified and to bring them at par with the national average. Select the correct code: (a) 1 only (c) 1 and 2 (b) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 3. Perform-Achieve-Trade (PAT) Scheme has been launched by the government recently. The scheme is related to (a) Steel sector (c) Coal sector (b) Energy sector (d) Export sector 1. It seeks to increase the sectoral share of manufacturing in GDP to at least 25% by 2022. 2. It seeks to increase the rate of job creation so as to create 120 million additional jobs by 2022. Which is/are correct? (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

4. Which one of the following statement is incorrect concerning RTIS (a) It is a GPS based train tracking system. (b) It has been jointly developed by RDSO, Lucknow and IIT-Delhi. (c) It has been opened to public with effect from 19th October 2011. (d) None of the above is correct 5. The 21st International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage Congress was recently held in (a) New Delhi (c) Teheran (b) Tashkent (d) Astana

10. Which one of the following are the supposed benefits of scheme for creation of the National Optical Fiber Network (NOFB) for providing broadband connectivity to gram panchayats? 1. Additional employment 2. E-education 3. Reduction in migration 4. Foster inclusive growth Choose the correct code: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 2, 3 and 4 (b) 1, 3 and 4 (d) All of the above

6. The new chairman of the Competition Commission of India is (a) Dhirendra Kumar (b) Sushma Nath (c) Ashok Chawla (d) Kaushik Basu 7. There is a urgent need to reform agricultural marketing because 1. To make farmer realize the fair remunerative price of its produce. 2. Existence of large transaction cost in the form of market fee and entry tax. 3. To make the agriculture more akin to the interest of small and marginal farmers. Select the correct code (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 (d) All of the above

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11. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. The Indian Air Force completed its second joint exercise with its counterparts from Oman in October 2011. 2. Omans northern tip is located at the Straits of Hormuz which is the entrance to the crucial Gulf and is 35 km opposite to Iran. 3. The endeavour was named as Exercise Eastern bridge - 2011 and was held at the Jamnagar Air Force base in Gujarat. 4. The previous exercise was held in 2009, the first such full fledged endeavour with a Gulf state and India. Correct option is: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 3, 4 and 1 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

8. Which one of the following military exercise has not been matched correctly (a) Shakti: (b) Eastern Bridge: (d) Indra: India-France India-Oman India-Russia

(c) Sudarshan Shakti: India-USA 9. Government has recently decided to launch the National Manufacturing Policy. In this context consider the following statements.

12. Which among the following statement/s is/are incorrect? 1. One of the chief reasons for launching telescopes, such as the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), into space is to overcome the blurring

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Questions@IP effect of the atmosphere and achieve a far-better resolution. 2. Adaptive Optics (AO) is a technique that uses optical systems in conjunction with the telescope to correct, or compensate for, the optical aberrations introduced by the intervening medium. In 1993, Horace Babcock proposed this concept. 3. A project, called Robo-AO, is currently being implemented on the fully robotic 1.5-m telescope at the Palomar Observatory in the U.S. It involves implementation of AO on small and medium-sized telescopes to improve their sensitivity. Correct option is: (a) 2 only (c) 3 only (b) 1 and 2 (d) 1 and 3

Proliferation Treaty) while North Korea acceded to the treaty, violated it and in 2003 withdrew from it. Select the correct answer (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

1. Kerala 3. Orissa

Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012 2. Madhya Pradesh 4. Tamil Nadu (b) 1 and 3 (d) All of the above

Select the correct code; (a) 1 and 4 (c) 1, 2 and 4

15. Match column I with column II Column I (Organization) A. Asian Development Bank (ADB) B. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) C. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for International D. BIS (Bank Settlements)

19. The Task Force set up for direct transfer of subsidies under Nandan Nilekani has submitted the recommendation. Which of the following is not one of the recommendations? 1. Constitution of a National Information Utility which will be called the Public Distribution System Network (PSDN). 2. Participation of the States in the PDSN would be mandatory and would help create a common integrated platform to monitor the PDS network.

Column II (Headquarter) 1. Mandaluyong (Philippines) 2. Kathmandu (Nepal) 3. Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) 4. Basil (Switzerland) Codes: A (a) l (b) 4 (c) 1 (d) 2 B 2 3 4 3 C 3 2 3 1 D 4 1 2 4

13. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. The Union government has made research and development (R&D) mandatory for all profit-making Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) with immediate effect. 2. The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), under the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, has directed that Maharatna companies should set aside at least 1 per cent of their profit after tax (PAT) for expenditure on R&D and other Navratna status undertakings earmark 0.5 per cent of their PAT for the purpose. 3. The DPE will also set up a National R&D Hub to compile and document CPSEs activities, organise national and international seminars and collaborate with external agencies to set up a think-tank on R&D. Correct option is: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 3 and 1 (d) 1, 2 and 3

3. The IT strategy need to be implemented in two phases -Phase I: Information visibility transparency and Phase II: Core Subsidy Management System. Select the correct code: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 (d) All of the above

20. Addu Declaration is concerned with (a) SAARC Summit (b) ASEM Summit (c) APEC Summit (d) BIMSTEC Summit 21. Consider the following statements: 1. India is one of the nine states elected to the World Heritage Committee (WHC). 2. Rustom-I is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (MALE - UAV) developed by DRDO. Which is/are correct? (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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16. National Institute of Mountaineering & Allied Sports (NIMAS) will be set up at (a) Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh (b) Darjeeling in West Bengal (c) Guwahati in Sikkim (d) Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh 17. Cabinet recently approved the increase in Indias quota in the International Monetary Fund. In this context consider the following statements. 1. All the BRIC countries will now be among the 10 largest quota shareholders at the IMF. 2. Indias gain in terms of quota share is the seventh largest. 3. Indias quota share now stands at 2.75% making it the 10th largest quota holding country at the IMF. Select the correct code (a) 1 and 2 (c) 1 and 3 (b) 2 and 3 (d) All of the above

22. The Paris Pact Initiative is (a) An initiative of G-8 countries and international organizations, which aims at rehabilitating environmental refugees. (b) An initiative of international organisations to combat illicit manufacture of heroine and its trafficking. (c) An initiative of G-20 countries to counter money laundering and black money. (d) An initiative of WTO to set standard

14. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. Comprehensive Nuclear Test-BanTreaty (CTBT) bans all nuclear explosions in all environments for civil and nuclear purposes. It was signed on September 10, 1996. India, North Korea and Pakistan have not signed it. 2. India, Pakistan, and Israel did not sign on NPT (Nuclear Non

18. Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project launched by the government in October 2011 will provide rehabilitation of 223 Dams in the States of

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Questions@IP and norms related to intellectual property rights. 23. Consider the following statements 1. Credit Risk Guarantee Fund Scheme (CGFS) seeks to address the issue of credit to the MSME sectors during the period of stress. 2. Officers Training Academys third branch was recently inaugurated at Nalanda. Which is/are incorrect? (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

2. Western Ghats, one of the global biodiversity hot spots support 25 species of legless amphibians (the caecilians). Among the 25 species, only 5 are yellow striped forms, which are limited in distribution. 3. According to the researchers, Habitat destruction, due to human interference, and usage of chemical fertilizers in the plantations (areca, banana and cardamom) has limited the distribution of these limbless amphibians in Western Ghats. Correct option is: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 3 and 1 (d) 1, 2 and 3

Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012 Select the correct option (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

30. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. South-South cooperation is the exchange of recoveries, technology and knowledge between developing countries. 2. North South Divide is a socioeconomic and political division that exists between wealthy developed countries (North) and poorer developing countries (South). 3. Look East policy was initiated in 1991 by P.V. Narasimha Rao to forge closer economic integration with Indias eastern neighbors (ASEAN). 4. Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) is group of six countries i.e., India, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. Select the correct answer (a) 1 and 2 (b) (c) 3 and 4 (d) 2 and 3 1, 2, 3 and 4

24. Chickens neck of India (a) Sikkim corridor (b) Siliguri corridor (c) Moreh corridor (d) Kachanak corridor 25. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. Federal court of USA has recently ruled out that procedures that use embryonic stem cells cannot be patented. 2. The unique ability of embryonic stem cells to grow into almost any tissue in the body has led scientists to investigate whether they can regenerate damaged and diseased organs, and treat serious conditions ranging from blindness and dementia to paralysis. 3. The judgment effectively supports the Greenpeace (environmental group) view and imposes a ban on patenting work that uses embryonic stem cells on the grounds that it represents an immoral industrial use of human embryos. Correct option is: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 3 and 1 (d) 1, 2 and 3

28. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. Soyuz rocket lifted off in October 2011 on its maiden flight from Europes space base at Kourou (French Guiana), carrying the first two satellites in the Galileo geopositioning system. 2. Soyuz rocket, a symbol of national pride in Russia is a space legend, for it traces its lineage to 1957 with Sputnik, the first satellite, and to the first manned flight, by Yuri Gagarin, in 1961. 3. Galileo geo-positioning system, when completed in 2020, will comprise 35 satellites and provide accuracy to within a metre, compared to three to eight metres for the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS). Correct option is: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 3 and 1 (d) 1, 2 and 3

31. The islands of Yeonpyeong have been a disputed territory between (a) North Korea and South Korea (b) North Korea and Japan (c) North Korea and China (d) South Korea and Japan 32. Consider the following recommendations of Ashok Chawla Committee on pricing of natural resources. 1. Create a National Data Repository for petroleum explorations. 2. Future telecom licenses should be floated as differentiated licenses and spectrum should be inherent part of such licenses. 3. Need to create a comprehensive national legislation to deal with all water-related issues. 4. Competitive and e-auctioning of land. Select the correct code: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 1, 3 and 4 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (d) All of the above transparent

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29. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. African union is a group of 54 African countries. The only African state, not a member of African union is Morocco. 2. The highest decision making organ of the African union is Assembly which is currently chaired by Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, leader of Equatorial Guinea 3. Pan African Parliament is representative body of AU with 265 members.

26. A 2.7-tonne defunct German satellite plunged to earth in October 2011 after languishing in dead orbit for more than a decade. Name of the satellite is: (a) ROSAT (c) SAR-Lupe (b) Soyuz (d) TerraSAR-X

27. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. A team of researchers including from the Zoological Survey of India, Western Ghat Regional Centre, Kozhikode has discovered a new species of limbless amphibian, Ichthyophis davidi, a yellow striped caecilian

4. Administrative centre of African union is Addis Ababa (Ethopia).

33. Which one of the following statements related to the report Slums in India A statistical compendium 2011 is incorrect? (a) Every eighth urban child in India in

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Questions@IP the age-group of 0-6 years stays in slums. (b) Maharashtra has the highest slum child population and Chandigarh has the highest proportion of the slum child population. (c) The report has been brought out by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. (d) The child sex ratio at 921, in the slum areas of 26 States/Union Territories, where slum population has been reported, is higher than 903, recorded for non-slum urban areas of these States and Union Territories. 34. The Jnanpith Award for 2009 has been given to (a) Amar Kant (b) Gopaldas Neeraj (c) Shrilal Shukla (d) Both (a) and (c) 35. The Sanskriti awards are given in the fields of 1. Journalism 2. Rural development 3. Performing arts 4. Science Select the correct code (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 (d) 3 and 4

1. MFN status prohibits discrimination between imported and domestically produced goods with respect to internal taxation or other government regulation. 2. National Treatment status prohibits countries from treating like products from all WTO Members differently. Which is/are correct? (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012 Correct option is: (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

43. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. Once referred to as an orphan crop mainly grown by poor farmers, pigeonpea is now set to join the worlds league of major food crops with the completion of its genome sequence. 2. Pigeonpea, grown on about 5 million hectares in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and South-Central America, is a very important food legume for millions of the poor in the semi-arid regions of the world. 3. Known as the poor peoples meat because of its high fat content, it provides a well-balanced diet when accompanied with cereals. Correct option is: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 3 and 1 (d) 1, 2 and 3

40. Scientists are warning officials negotiating a global treaty on mercury that banning the deadly chemical completely would be dangerous for public health because (a) The ban may also include thermometer with which the common ailments like fever are ascertained. (b) The ban may include thiomersals which are used to prevent contamination and extend the shelf life of vaccines. (c) The ban will create shortage of the vaccines used for treatment of diseases like flu, tetanus, measles, raising the prices of these vaccines and threatening the public health. (d) The ban will hamper the generic drug manufacturers in the third world countries. 41. Who among the following is the inventor of C(computer programming language) and co-creator of the Unix operating system. (a) Ken Thompson (b) Dennis Ritchie (c) Patrick C. Fischer (d) Richard W. Hamming 42. Which among the following statements are correct? 1. As per CASBAA (The Cable & Satellite Broadcasting Association of Asia) report-2011 released in Hong Kong, Piracy in India will reach to the whooping figure of $ 1.44 billion by end of 2011 from $ 1.33 billion last year. 2. Recently, President Prathibha Patil has given her nod to an ordinance, which would make digitisation of cable services mandatory by 2018. The shift would mean all customers must have a set top box whether they want to receive free-to-air or pay channels.

36. Consider the following statements 1. Vision 2020 is a global initiative of IAPB and WHO to eliminate avoidable blindness by 2020 and give everyone a Right to Sight. 2. Worlds first built-from-scratch commercial spaceport has been built by Virgin Galactic in New Mexico. Which is/are incorrect? (a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2 1. Egypt 3. Iraq (b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2

44. The Election Commission in its landmark verdict on paid news disqualified Umlesh Yadav, an MLA from Bisauli. The verdict has potential ramifications. In this context consider the following statements. 1. It will help restore the credibility of the news media and motivate journalists. 2. It will help empower the public as it now has recourse against the abuse of money power. 3. It will act as a deterrent against obscene spending during elections. Select the correct code: (a) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 (d) All of the above

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37. This Fertile Crescent comprised of 2. Syria 4. Jordan 5. Lebanon (b) 1, 2, 4 and 5 (d) All of the above (b) Amitav Ghosh

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 (c) 1, 3, 4 and 5 (a) Carol Birch

45. The rupee is continuously depreciating against the dollar since October end. The reasons for the rupee depreciation are 1. The inadequate supply of dollar in the foreign exchange market. 2. The less than required foreign exchange reserve with the RBI limiting its sterilization function. 3. The impending crisis in the eurozone area and the uncertainty related to it. 4. Weak macroeconomic fundamentals at home denting the FIIs confidence in the Indian economy.

38. Sense of an Ending is a book by (c) Julian Barnes (d) Lance Armstrong 39. On the visit of Nepalese Prime Minister to India, both countries agreed to accord National Treatment and Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to each other. In this context consider the following statements.

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Questions@IP Select the correct code (a) 1 and 2 (c) 1, 3 and 4 46. Snow white is (a) A movement initiated in Siberia to save the white tigers. (b) The name of the third research station of India at Antarctica. (c) A dwarf planet lying in Kuiper belt which is believed to have atmosphere. (d) The name of an avalanche which created havoc in the Wellington city of New Zealand. 47. Which country recently won the Rugby World Cup? (a) England (c) New Zealand (b) South Africa (d) Australia (b) 2 and 3 (d) All of the above

(a) Ernakulam (c) Nalanda

(b) Vishakhapatnam (d) Barmer

Vol.1 Issue 4 January 2012 Column II 1. Genetic variability and abundance of species in a habitat 2. Creation, development, and operation of database and other computing tools to collect, organise and interpret biological data 3. Intellectual piracy i.e., theft, misappropriation of, or unfair free riding on, genetic resources through patent system 4. Phenomenon of progressive increase in the concentration of Xenobiotic compounds as it passes through the food chain eg. DDT, BHC etc. Codes: A (a) 1 (b) 4 (c) 1 (d) 2 B 2 3 4 3 C 3 2 3 1 D 4 1 2 4

49. Consider the following statements: 1. Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures (SPS) 2. Technical barriers to trade (TBT) 3. Import bans 4. Licenses and border control 5. Export quota reduction Which of these are non-tariff barriers? (a) 1, 2 and 3 (c) 2, 3 and 5 Column I A. B. C. D. Biomagnification Bio-piracy Bio-informatics Biodiversity (b) (d) 3, 4 and 5 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

50. Match column I with column II

48. The State Bank of India has identified which city for making it the first model district in the country to introduce paperless banking?

ANSWERS
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1. (d) 2. (b) Exp.: The programme was launched in 2008-09 for the welfare of minorities and hence it is being implemented by Ministry of Minorities. 3. (b) Exp.: PAT scheme has been launched to enhance energy efficiency in the use of power. 4. (b) Exp.: IIT Kanpur and not IIT Delhi 5. (c) 6. (c) 7. (d) 8. (c) Exp.: Sudarshan Shakti is not a joint military exercise, it is a exercise by the three commands of Indian defence. 9. (a) Exp.: it seeks to increase the rate of job creation so as to create 100 million additional jobs by 2022. 10. (d) 13. (d) 11. (d) 14. (c) 15. (a) 12. (a) Exp.: Proposed in 1953 16. (a) 17. (a) Exp.: Indias quota share now stands at 2.75% making it the 8th largest quota holding country at the IMF. 18. (d) 19. (b) Exp.: Participation of the States in the PSDN would be voluntary and hence decentralized. 20. (a) 21. (c) 22. (b) Exp.: Though the initiative is not of UNODC (United Nation Office on Drug and Crime), but it is supported by it. The initiative is in fact of more than 55 countries and international organizations to check the illicit manufacture of Afghan opium, its consumption and related problem. The initiative was launched in 2003. 23. (c) Exp.: Credit Risk Guarantee Fund seeks to address the concern of housing for the EWG (Economically Weaker Group) and LIG (Lower Income Group) under Rajiv Awaas Yojana. Officer Training Academy third branch was inaugurated at Gaya. 24. (b) Exp.: Chickens neck though is a general term for a chicken neck like corridor or passage on the external boundary of a nation, but in Indian context it is Siliguri corridor which is widely referred to as Chickens neck. It is an important route or connectivity to the East Asia. 25. (c) Exp. European Court and not Federal court of USA 26. (a) Exp. Roentgen Satellite or ROSAT 27. (d) 28. (a) Exp. it will comprise 27 satellites 29. (d) 30. (d) 31. (a) 32. (c) Exp.: future telecom licenses will be floated as unified licenses and spectrum will be de-linked from such licenses. 33. (c) Exp.: the report has been compiled by the National Buildings Organisation (NBO) of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation. 34. (d) 35. (b) Exp.: the award is given to young talents between the age group of 25 and 35 years in the fields of Literature, Journalism, Art, Performing Arts and Social Achievement. The award was instituted in 1979 and it carries a cash award of Rs. 50,000 and a citation. 36. (d) 37. (a) Exp.: Fertile Crescent in the ancient civilization comprised of Egypt, Syria, Iraq (Mesopotomia), Palestine, Lebanon, Kuwait and Israel besides the southeastern fringe of Turkey and the western fringe of Iran. The term was coined in 1906 by James Henry Breasted of University of Chicago. 38. (c) Exp.: Julian Barnes is the Man Booker Prize winner of 2011. 39. (d) Exp.: In place of MFN status will come National Treatment, and in place of National Treatment will come MFN. 40. (b) 41. (b) 42. (a) Exp. digitisation of cable services mandatory by 2014 43. (a) Exp. It has high protein content 44. (d) 45. (c) Explanation: second option is not the reason, rather its a step needed to arrest the decline in the value of rupee which the RBI can take in limited manner only. 46. (c) 49. (d) 47. (c) 50. (b) 48. (b)

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cSAt moDEl tESt PAPER

Directions for the following 5 (five) items: Read each of the following 2 passages and answer the items that follow. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only. Passage- 1 (1-3) NURSERY RHYMES have told us since childhood days that the stars that we see in the sky twinkle. This apparent twinkling is because of the swirling air or the turbulence in the atmosphere above us. The same thing happens when stars or planets are observed or imaged through a telescope. In addition to the twinkling, turbulence causes the light from the star to jump about in the field of the eyepiece of the telescope. If instead of an eye there were an imaging device at the focal plane of the telescopes lens, the image would correspondingly shift around on the photographic plate or the imaging plane of the detector, resulting in a smudged or blurred image, a fuzzy blob, instead of a sharply defined point or a disk. A bigger and more powerful telescope only aggravates the smudging. If two stars are very close, this makes it difficult to see or resolve them as separate objects. Astronomers quantify this ability to resolve two nearby objects as seeing, which is a measure of the optical steadiness of the atmosphere. The unsteadiness arises owing to thermal non-uniformities in the atmosphere, like layers having different temperatures and wind velocities, which are always present, causing the light from the star that passes through them to deviate constantly. Temperature fluctuations in small patches of air act as many little lenses and cause light to be refracted many times by little amounts. Therefore, when light reaches the telescope, what started out as a plane wave gets distorted. Equivalently, the light rays are no longer parallel and hence cannot be focussed to a point. 1. Which of the following statement/s is/are true? (1) Stellar scintillation happens because we view stars through thick layers of moving air. (2) Stars would not appear to twinkle if we view them from outer space. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 2. Which of the given statement/s is/ are false? (1) Astronomical seeing conditions on a given night at a given location describe how much the earths atmosphere perturbs the images of stars as seen through a telescope (2) Seeing varies considerably from place to place and from time to time. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 3. Which of the given statement/s is/ are true? (1) Effects of poor seeing increase as the size of the telescope is increased. (2) This is simply because a small telescope has to look through a much smaller column of air than a large one. (a) 1 only Passage-2 (4-5) Read the excerpt and make intelligent choices from the options given below: Under successive Liberal and Conservative governments, Canada has failed to do much to curb its carbon emissions, which rose by 20.4% between 1990 and 2009. That has disheartened environmentalists. It has also put the country in breach of a promise to cut its emissions by 6% from their 1990 level in accordance with the Kyoto protocol, an international treaty. On December 12th Peter Kent, the environment minister, announced that Canada was pulling out of the protocol, becoming the first country to do so. This came hours after he had returned from a UN climate conference in Durban (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 that had renewed Kyoto (which requires emissions-cuts only by rich-country signatories) while also agreeing to start talks on a new global pact that will have legal force. Mr Kents announcement dismayed Christiana Figueres, the UNs climate negotiator. It also attracted criticism from China, which in Durban had for the first time seemed to accept that developing countries should also be bound by international emissions rules. Canada, it said, was undermining this global effort. By leaving Kyoto now, the country will avoid a formal finding of noncompliance and pressure to either make good its commitment or buy carbontrading credits worth, Mr Kent said, C$14 billion ($13.5 billion) in lieu of doing so. To comply now would mean removing every vehicle of every kind from Canadian roads, or closing down the entire farming and agricultural sector and cutting heat to every home, office, hospital, factory and building in Canada, he declared. That was an exaggeration which reflected the loathing that the Conservative government and the prime minister, Stephen Harper, have long had of Kyoto. Back in 2002 Mr Harper described it as a socialist scheme to suck money out of wealth-producing nations and vowed to fight efforts by the then-Liberal government to ratify and implement a job-killing, economy-destroying pact. He argues that since Kyoto does not include the largest pollutersthe United States and Chinameeting Canadas commitments would hurt its energy industries without doing much to save the planet. In particular, complying with Kyoto is incompatible with stepping up oil extraction from Albertas tar sands, a process that releases higher emissions than pumping oil from wells. The opposition complained loudly that the governments decision to walk away from Kyoto has trashed Canadas reputation as a good global citizen. Bad publicity from the decision may indeed make tar-sands oil harder to sell

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abroad (the United States has already held up approval of a new pipeline from Alberta). The Conservatives, who have governed with a parliamentary majority since an election in May, know that although most Canadians like to think of themselves as green, they are more worried just now about the health of the economy than that of the planet. But if the new global pact moves forward, Canada will eventually have to find something more than a do-next-to-nothing policy on emissions. 4. Back in 2002 Mr Harper described it as a socialist scheme to suck money out of wealth-producing nations; Why the word Socialist is used here (a) It is an ideological criticism by a conservative person (b) Real Politiking (c) A canvassing campaign (d) Harper being the leader of opposition at the time was just opposing the then Government

Refer to the data below and answer the questions (6-10): Four friends Amit, Billu, Charlie and Deepak; and four girls Monika, Neetika, Omsi and Preeti are sitting such that between every two boys there is one girl. Monika sits at one end and Deepak at the other. Billu sits next to Preeti and to her right. 6. If Deepak sits next to Preeti and to her left, and Monika and Omsi are one seat away from each other, who is sitting between Omsi and Neetika? (a) Charlie (b) Amit (c) Billu (d) Amit or Charlie 7. If Deepak sits next to Preeti to her left, and Neetika and Omsi are one seat away from each other, who is sitting between Amit and Charlie? (a) Omsi (c) Preeti (b) Neetika (d) Omsi or Neetika

(b) Preeti sits between Charlie and Billu (c) Billu sits between Preeti and Neetika (d) None of the above 11. In the year 1998, the average of the ages of Saurabh and his 3 family members was 41 years. After four years. Saurabhs father died at the age of 60 years and saurabhs wife gave birth to a son. After four more years, Saurabhs mother died, at the age of 60 years and Saurabhs wife gave birth to a daughter. the average age (in years) of the family in the year 2008 is (a) 51 (b) 36 (c) 29 (d) 21 12. Sanats average expenditure for ten days is Rs 13, while that for first five days is Rs 10 also the average expenditure for the last 3 days is Rs 16. Find the average expenditure for the sixth and seventh days. (a) Rs. 13 (c) Rs. 15 (b) Rs. 14 (d) Rs. 16

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5. What could be the real reason for Canada to become the first person to drop the Kyoto protocol renewal even when China was coming to the folds of realization (a) To comply now would mean removing every vehicle of every kind from Canadian roads, or closing down the entire farming and agricultural sector and cutting heat to every home, office, hospital, factory and building in Canada (b) Since Kyoto does not include the largest pollutersthe United States and China meeting Canadas commitments would hurt its energy industries without doing much to save the planet (c) Complying with Kyoto is incompatible with stepping up oil extraction from Albertas tar sands, a process that releases higher emissions than pumping oil from wells (d) Both B and C

8. If Deepak and Billu sit one seat away from each other, then which of the following is always true? (a) Monika and Preeti are sitting on alternate seats (b) Preeti sits between Deepak and Billu (c) Monika and Preeti cannot sit on alternate seats (d) Preeti cannot sit Deepak and Billu between

13. There is a river embankment which is flooded. There are two groups of people having contrary interest. Whereas one group wants to strengthen the embankment, other group want to cut it. A senior irrigation deptt. Engineer will .. (a) Form a committee having representations of two groups and will hold daily meeting to reach to an acceptable solution. (b) Request the local police to take preventive legal actions against leading people of both the sides. (c) Try to make two groups ready for an arbitration to be done by a retired engineer or irrigation department. (d) Contact local MLA and request him to ensure that both groups maintain peace. 14. In a certain code language code for ARRANGEMENT is ZPQYMEDKDLS, then what will be the code for NOKIA? (a) MMJFZ (b) MMJGZ (c) MNIHY (d) MMKGZ

9. If Preeti and Monika are sitting on alternate seats, (a) 2 people are sitting between Deepak and Billu (b) 3 or more people are sitting between Deepak and Billu (c) Billu is to the left of Deepak, although they are not sitting on alternate seats (d) 5 people are sitting between Deepak and Monika 10. If Billu sits one seat away from Amit on one side and Charlie on the other side, then (a) Preeti and Monika alternate seats are on

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15. In what proportion must a grocer mix tea at Rs.1.02 per kg and Rs.1.44 per kg so as to make a mixture worth Rs.1.26 per kg.?
8 (a) 5 4 (b) 3

casual contacts, needles, eatables and water make panic-stricken people run for help and testing, he remarked. 17. Who is Anna Hazare (a) A radical social reformer (b) A campaigner for social reform (c) A Gandhian (d) All of the above 18. Who came to know of this threat first that Annas rally is being threatened by AIDS prickers (a) Annaa associates (b) The Delhi Police (c) Anna himself (d) The journalist/reporter 19. What could possibly be the reason for this threat (a) To spread panic (b) To make people stay away from campaign (c) To make Anna call off his campaign (d) A and B 20. Ironically, such stories arise from the national capital and have a potential to create major panic among the people, particularly among those associated with Hazares campaign, Gilada said. What could be the reason for the reporter using the word ironically here: (a) It states the utter astonishment that still prevails among the general people regarding AIDS (b) The reporter expresses his/her displeasure at the extent to which the State can go to stop Anna (c) It expresses the shock at the fear of the Delhi police (d) All of the above 21. Why the threat even if true cannot be taken seriously (a) It is just a rumour (b) It is not possible with heavy security for a person having AIDS tainted needles to enter

into the campaign venue (c) It is not possible biologically to make this happen (d) All of the above 22. When the author says Unfounded theories of HIV spread through casual contacts, needles, eatables and water make panic-stricken people run for help and testing; what does the word Unfounded imply (a) It is not proven as yet (b) Scientifically argument (c) Unscientific (d) All of the above 23. A metal weighs 1500 kg per cubic metre and another metal weighs 2500 kg per cubic metre find the weight of 5 cubic metres of an alloy formed by mixing 40% of the first metal and 60% of the second metal. (a) 8,250 kg (c) 10,500kg (b) 9,500 kg (d) 12,250 kg unsustainable

(c) 3

(d) 6

16. How many triangles can be formed by joining 10 points, 7 of which are collinear? (a) 80 (b) 85 (c) 120 (d) 35 Directions for the following 6 (six) items: Read the following passage and answer the items that follow. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only. Passage (Q.17-22) Read the following news item and answer the question that follows it. Ahead of Anna Hazares fast, the AIDS Society of India has dubbed as misinformation campaign the threat to inject the Gandhian and his supporters with HIV-contaminated needles, saying such fears were unfounded. It is difficult to contract HIV, as the virus does not survive outside human body for long. Virus dies as soon as blood dries. HIV contaminated blood, supposedly used for pricks like the ones described, doesnt pose any real risk of transmission, Dr Ishwar S Gilada, Secretary General of the AIDS Society of India, said. Delhi Police had recently received a letter that threatened to infect Hazare and his followers with HIV virus contaminated needles, if they remained adamant on Lokpal agitation. The anonymous letter stated that a needle team, which has prepared 500 HIV positive needles, would inject the virus in at least 1,000 people at the demonstration. Ironically, such stories arise from the national capital and have a potential to create major panic among the people, particularly among those associated with Hazares campaign, Gilada said. Unfounded theories of HIV spread through

24. 1000 people voted on resolution and 10% of the votes were invalid. After some discussion the 1000, people voted again and this time there were 20% in valid votes. The opponents increased by 50%. While the motion was now rejected by a majority which is 300 % more than that by which it was formerly passed. How many people voted against the resolution after the discussion? (a) 480 (c) 540 (b) 450 (d) 600

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25. In toss of 10 coins, find the probability of getting exactly one head?

5 (a) 29 5 (c) 10 2

1 210 10 (d) 9 2
(b)

26. In a test of 100 multiple choice questions, there are 4 options (a, b, c, d) in each and every question. If all the options are equally likely then

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what is the most probable score of a student who has opted for option c in all the questions. Assume that a student is penalized with 1/4 mark for each wrong answer and +1 is awarded for each right answer? (a) 12.5 (b) 25 (c) 6.25 (d) Cannot be determined 27. The cost price of seven Bananas is equal to the selling price of five Bananas. What is the profit percentage? (a)

(c) Rs.1460 (d) Rs.2020 32. If 60 % children like cats, 70 % like dogs and 80 % like rabbits. Then calculate the minimum percentage of people who like all the three. Correct option is: (a) 10 (b) 15 (c) 20 (d) 25 33. Seventy percent of the employees in a multinomial corporation have cars, 75 percent have bikes, 80 percent have Own houses and 85 % have laptops. At least what percentage of employees has all four? (a) 15 (b) 5 (c) 10 (d) Cannot be determined 34. If MACHINE is coded as 19-7-914-15-20-11, now will you code DANGER? (a) 11 6 20 9 11 25 (b) 10 7 20 16 11 24 (c) 10 7 20 13 11 24 (d) 11 7 20 10 11 25 Directions for the following 5 (five) items: Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow them based on the understanding part of it: Passage (Q. 35 - 39) THE worst of the hazards travellers encounter in the mountainous rainforests of southern India is not the elephants, though they occasionally kill people; nor the creepy-crawlies, though the sudden appearance of a foot-long red-legged millipede can startle; nor the spinystemmed palms, though they shred unwary walkers clothes. It is the leeches. If you pause on a walk through the forest, within a minute up to 20 of these brown slimy tubes, ranging in size from minuscule threads to fat worms four centimetres long and a quarter in diameter, leap onto your boots. Attracted by heat, they loop swiftly upwards like caterpillars on speed, scaling a Wellington in as little as 15 seconds. Leech socksthick canvas affairs tied tightly at the knee stop those that climb into boots from attacking your feet. But others continue upwards, and, however assiduously you pluck them off, some inevitably make it

onto bare skin and sink their teeth into your flesh. As they do so, their salivary glands secrete hirudin, an anticoagulant so effective that the pharmaceutical industry synthesises it as a bloodthinning agent. Even if you locate them and pluck them offtricky, given their strong grip and slippery surfaceyour blood flows from their bites for hours. Not surprisingly, Keralas rainforests are thinly populated. Only the very determined, with a clear purpose and considerable resilience, venture into them. Among those are Sathyabhama Biju Das, an amphibian researcher at Delhi University, his students and his growing band of followers. Mr Biju is the closest thing Indian herpetology has to a celebrity. A Keralan who spent most of his childhood herding cows, he scraped an education, became a plant scientist, but was increasingly drawn to amphibians. Plants are very boring, he explains. In 2003 he discovered nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis, a purple jelly-like creature with a pointed nose and a running gait that makes a sound like a small chicken. It is actually a frog, but so different from other frogs that it has its own taxonomic family; and because its closest relatives are in the Seychelles, the discovery had implications for theories of palaeogeography and species migration in prehistory. It created quite a stir, and made Mr Bijus name. The purple frog gave me everything in my life, he says. That life is devoted to the taxonomy of Indian frogs. Mr Biju wants to preserve as many as possible from a poignant fate: nameless extinction. So far he has clocked up one family, seven genera and 57 speciesmore species than any scientist in India. Frogs are in danger worldwide. According to the Red List of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, more amphibians are threatened by extinction than any other animal group. A combination of factorshabitat destruction, climate change, a lethal disease called chytrid fungusputs them under stress. Whats alarming is the speed

2 2 16 % (b) 14 % 3 7 1 (d) 33 % 3

(c) 40%

28. x, y and z enter into a partnership such that x invests half the amount invested by y and y in invests half the amount invested by z. At the end of the year, they suffer a total loss of Rs 14000, what is the individual loss to y?

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(a) Rs.4000 (b) Rs.6000 (c) Rs.2000 (d) cannot be determined 29. A trader gives a discount based on the number of articles bought by a customer. He gives a discount of 10 %, when 5 articles are bought and a discount of 12.5 %, when 8 articles are bought. If the profit he makes in each case is the same, then the ratio of the marked price to the cost price of the article is (a) 4: 3 (c) 6: 5 (b) 3: 2 (d) None of these

30. Approximately how many times sweeter than sucrose is a mixture consisting of glucose, sucrose and fructose in the ratio of 1:2:3? (a) 1.3 (b) 1.0 (c) 0.6 (d) 2.3 31. R and S agreed to complete a job in 15 days for Rs.6200. R can complete the same job in 50 days and S in 30 days. They had to take M to complete the work in time. Find MS share in the money earned by them. (a) Rs.880 (b) Rs.1240

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with which their populations crash, says Robin Moore, Conservation Internationals amphibian-conservation officer. Ive seen pools of frogs belly up. Yet as even Mr Moore admits, it is hard to get people to care about frogs: They look at a picture of a frog, and think: thats cool and weird. But that doesnt translate into empathy for its plight. Nor do amphibians garner the celebrity attention that tigers do. After Leonardo DiCaprio, a Hollywood star, was reported to have donated $1m to tiger conservation, Mr Biju phoned his office to ask for a statement in support of frogs, but the call was not returned. None of this deters Mr Biju; indeed, he seems to derive moral strength from the sense of being on the side of the underfrog. I speak for the quiet majority, he says. Mr Bijus most fertile hunting-ground is the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to Indias western coast from Gujarat to Kerala. The southern end, covered in primary rainforest, is frog heaven. There are 181 known species of amphibian in the Western Ghats, 159 of them endemic (that is, found nowhere else). In September, Mr Biju took off for the mountains accompanied by four researchers, one volunteer and your correspondent, in the hope of adding to his formidable roster of new species. The road from Trivandrum to the forest was winding but smooth, the rain fine and sporadic. It was dark by the time the jeep reached its first night stopa tribal village on the edge of the forest. The team dumped its bags and headed for the river: night-time is the best time for frog-hunting, for they are noisiest then. The hunters moved through the trees towards the calls, with torches strapped to their foreheads. They peered into bushes and trees, and picked at leaf-litter on the forest floor. Catching frogs requires not just sharp eyes (many are tiny, and most well camouflaged) but swift fingers (all are slippery and fast). Familiar species were discarded. Anything curious, novel or sought-after was dropped into a plastic bag to be identified, photographed and thenfor these frog-lovers are

scientists, not sentimentalistspickled in formaldehyde. 35. What does the author of the passage most interested in : (a) Frogs (b) Ecological concern (c) Leeches (d) Forest Life 36. Who could possibly be the author of the aforesaid passage : (a) One of the research student of Professor accompanying him (b) A person who has accompanied the professor just as an environmental journalist (c) An environmentalist (d) Any of the above 37. What could be the reason for the main protagonist of the passage Biju Das to call Leonardo DiCaprios (a Hollywood star) office when he heard that he has donated $1m for tiger conservation (a) To shun him for concentrating only on those donations that can grant him fame (b) To make him more aware that there are other species also that needs generous donations for its conservation (c) To ask from him money for his project (d) To invite him to come to the Western Ghats and experience the beauty of leeches and frogs 38. What could have made Biju the most known face of Indian researcher (a) His ecological concern (b) His discovery of new species of frogs (c) His discovery of new species of frogs and leeches

(d) His life story of being born poor but how he rose through the saddles 39. The author says that the Frogs are in danger worldwide in one of his sentences. What are the reasons given by him for this: (a) habitat destruction, (b) climate change, (c) a lethal disease called chytrid fungus (d) All of the above 40. 8 chairs are numbered from 1 to 8. Two women first choose two chairs from those marked 1 to 4 and 3 men select 3 chairs from the remaining. Find the number of possible arrangements. (a) 1440
8 6

(b) 720

(c) C3 C3 (d) None of these 41. A garrison of 500 men had provision for 24 days. However, a reinforcement of 300 men arrived. The food will now last for: (a) 18 Days (c) 10 Days (b) 15 Days (d) 16 Days

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42. The students of three classrooms, A, B and C, take a test. The results of the test are as follows. The average scores of students in classes. A, B and C are 74, 84 and 78 respectively. The average scores of all the students of classes A and B together and B and C together are 78 and 81 respectively. Find the average score of all the three classes put together. (a) 80 (c) 79.5 (b) 78 (d) None of these

Directions: answer question number 4347 by using the information given in the table below: Loan disbursed by five banks in Rs crore is given in the table.

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43. In which year was the distribution of loans of all banks put together least compared to the average disbursement of loans over the years? (a) 1990 (c) 1992 (b) 1991 (d) 1994

51. Increased competition in industry has helped the rural development process to a certain extent, because (a) Increased competition has led to increased focus on innovation and technological upgradation to improve efficiencies and hence delivery to the consumers. (b) Increased competition has led to increased focus in the companies to expand their markets and proceed towards harnessing the capacitates of the rural consumers. (c) Increased competition has led to increased realization among the corporate sector to participate in the rural development initiatives through the PPP model, in order to enhance their markets by increasing the purchasing capacities of their rural consumers. (d) Increased competition has lead to more tendencies of mergers of acquisitions and hence more holistic core competencies are available to ensure multipronged delivery of development through the PPP route. 52. J and K can do a piece of work in 15 days and 20 days respectively. They worked on alternate days with J starting the work in how days will the work be completed? (a) 8 days (c) 17 days (b) 10 days (d) None of these

1936 and named after the hunter-turnedconservationist, Jim Corbett, opens its gates to tourists after monsoon break. The opening of the park will be accompanied by various programs to commemorate the parks 75 years. These celebrations, however, might be dampened by the fact that Corbett and areas surrounding the park have recorded the highest tiger mortality rate in India this year. TRAFFIC India, a wildlife trade monitoring network, has recorded 39 tiger deaths in the country in 2011, of which 19 occurred in Corbetts tiger reserve. Park management have attributed most of the deaths to natural causes and are awaiting details of some other cases. We have the largest density of tigers in India, its inevitable that some would die of natural causes, said C.K Kavi Dayal, deputy director of Corbetts tiger reserve. Efforts to save Indias tiger population in special reserves has paid off in recent years. Project Tiger in its 2010 All Tiger Estimation Report recorded Indias tiger population at 1,706, an improvement from 1,411 tigers in 2006. But does that mean there is no reason to worry? Some observers are concerned that the high number of tourists visiting parks like Corbett each year is disturbing tigers migratory patterns inside the park and pushing some to stray in to nearby villages, where they come in to conflict with locals and become easy prey for poachers. The encroachment of villages on to land designated as buffer zones for parks also is a concern, some environmentalists say. Park officials from Corbett killed a tiger earlier this year when it strayed in to inhabited areas and killed villagers. The biggest threat faced by the Corbett tiger reserve is the leakage of its tiger populations to its peripheral areas, says Samir Sinha, Head of TRAFFIC India. Mr. Dayal declined to comment on this. Critics say the best response is to curtail tourism to the central areas of tiger parks in India, where jeeps with visitors often sit in traffic jams.

44. What was the percentage increase of disbursement of loans of all banks together from 1992 to 1993? (a) 110% (c) 10% (b) 14% (d) 11%

45. In which year was the disbursement of loans of banks A and B exactly equal to the total disbursement of banks D and E? (a) 1991 (c) 1994 (b) 1992 (d) None of these

46. If the minimum target in the succeeding year was 120% of the total disbursement of loans, how many banks reached the target in 1991? (a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4 47. By what percent did the loan disbursement increase from 1990 to 1994? (a) 72 (b) 82 (c) 94 (d) 91 48. The cost prices of 3 kinds of sugar are Rs.5, Rs.6 and Rs.6.80 , respectively. In what proportion should they be mixed so that the price of the mixture be Rs.6.50 per bag? (a) 3:6:25 (c) 2:1:18 (b) 4:5:20 (d) 7:9:13

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49. In how many ways can the letters of the words MATERIAL be arranged so that the vowels may not be separated? (a) 1440 (c) 20160 (b) 2880 (d) None

Directions for the following 8 (eight) items: Read each of the following two passages and answer the items that follow. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only. Projecting thought process to draw conclusion from what the writer wants to say is also required: Passage - 1 (Q. 53 - 56) Corbett National Park, which boasts the highest density of tigers per acre of any reserves in India, is facing a high number of unexplained animal deaths as it celebrates its 75thanniversary recently. The tiger reserve, which was established in

50. Anuj is sales man working for a computer company. He earns a fixed salary of Rs. 1,200 per month and a commission of 8% on annual sales exceeding Rs. 1,00,000. What is his annual sales if on an average he earns Rs. 1600 per month? (a) Rs. 120,000 (c) Rs. 160,000 (b) Rs. 140,000 (d) Rs. 180,000

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53. Out of the following four para, what is the most suitable order that does not disturb the order of flow/rhythm of the whole passage i. Recently the National Tiger Conservation Authority, a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, filed an affidavit with the Supreme Court to ban tourism in critical tiger habitats at the center of parks.

56. Some observers are concerned that the high number of tourists visiting parks like Corbett each year is disturbing tigers migratory patterns inside the park and pushing some to stray in to nearby villages, where they come in to conflict with locals and become easy prey for poachers. What is the truth factor of this statement that you can incur from the tone of the passage? (a) It is absolutely true (b) The various parties have differing views on the real reason for the tiger deaths in the Park (c) This can be called as one of the reasons for the tigers death (d) Man-Animal or more specifically Man-Tiger conflict has been emphasized as the most important reason for the tigers death Passage-2 (57-60) Read the following passage and incur the best possible answer for the question that follows it: Unilever, which makes the popular Brooke Bond and Lipton brands, has committed to sourcing all its tea sustainably by 2020. But doing so is tricky. First, what does sustainability constitute exactly? Does it comprise basic worker rights and environmental protections? Or should it mean that workers on tea plantations in India and Kenya, poor countries, should be extended the same working conditions as most Europeans and Americans? And who makes sure these companies often not owned by the multinationals but local suppliersabide by the standards? The Netherlands-based Center for Research on Multinational Corporations, in an October report, claimed the existing system of checks and balances has failed to stop abuses of workers on Unilevers Kenyan estate, including sexual harassment and poor housing conditions. In India where Unilever buys tea from producers in Assam and Tamil Nadu, but does not own the estates the report claims workers are kept permanently on rolling short-term contracts, denying

them health and pension benefits, and are often exposed to dangerous pesticides while working. Unilever, in its response to the report, says the center has failed to produce evidence to back claims made about its Kenyan operations. The company said it would look in to allegations of abuses at the Indian suppliers if given specific information. At the crux of such battles is a debate about whether the move to sustainable production is a real attempt to improve conditions for workers in poor parts of the world or a kind of green-washing carried out by multinational companies under intense pressure from customers in Europe and the U.S. In reality, its probably a bit of both. Companies, for sure, have a real interest in managing their brand image, which means not buying from people that exploit workers. But at the same time, they have to watch their bottom lines and produce enough to meet demand for their product, which they say would be impossible if moving overnight to apply Western-style standards uniformly across emerging market economies. The balance between certifying adequate quantities of sustainable product of tea, or other products like wood and palm oil and keeping to strict standards is a tough one to negotiate. The Forest Stewardship Council, which makes sure the paper in your novel is from sustainable sources, got caught out in 2007 and had to change its rules when one of Indonesias most controversial paper producers got an FSC certification. Sometimes its difficult to know what is sustainable. Take palm oil, used in products like margarine and cosmetics, which is grown on plantations that have led to the destruction of massive area of natural rainforest in Indonesia and Malaysia. The red palm oil fruit is collected from hundreds of small plantations and processed at refineries, making it difficult to know whether the end product is sustainable. Unilever, one of the worlds largest buyers of palm oil, has been instrumental in developing the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, a group of suppliers,

ii. Others have focused on illegal poaching as the main threat to Indias tiger population, after an investigation of Sariska Tiger reserve in Rajasthan in 2005 found the population had been almost wiped out by poaching. iii. These people say that tourism, if handled correctly, with strict limits on where hotels and other infrastructure are constructed, should not be a threat to tigers. iv. Several efforts are ongoing in Corbett to combat some of the looming troubles faced in the reserve. Villagers living near the park are being taken on as forest guides, helping to teach them about tigers and hopefully reducing attacks on the animals when they stray in to human settlements. Correct option is: (a) i,iii,iv,ii (c) i,ii,iii,iv (b) iv,iii,i,ii (d) i,iii,ii,iv

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54. According to you what can best describe this passage as (a) A News Report (b) A Critical News Analysis (c) A Government Report (d) All of the above 55. The Report as given by the TRAFFIC India can be said as: (a) Based on facts (b) Based on other Reports (c) Based on projections (d) Based on Exaggerations (being an interested party)

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NGOs and producers. But progress toward the RSPOs goal of sustainability by 2015 has been slow, with lack of clarity on how to ensure a product meets green standards. In theory, tea should be easier to track. But Unilevers response to the latest report by the Center for Research on Multinational Corporations highlights the difficulties. The company said it relies on regular, independent audits of its tea plantations by the Rainforest Alliance, a U.S.-based nonprofit environmental group, which has improved rights for workers. Unilever says it has spent 1.2 million on housing upgrades at its estate in Kericho, Kenya, which it claims offers workers among the best conditions in the East African tea industry. Rainforest Alliance carries out audits for a number of companies according to social and environmental standards set by the Sustainable Agriculture Network, a coalition of leading global conservation groups. During the process, auditors should be allowed to go where they like and meet workers without management presence.

report says. Unilever says that tea production is seasonal and defends its use of contract workers with clearly defined rights as a usual practice. The report acknowledges that use of contract workers doesnt break national or international labor laws. But it argues that heavy reliance on these kinds of workers, who are sometimes employed for decades on rolling short-term contracts, goes against Sustainable Agriculture Network standards that lay down equal benefits to workers for the same kind of work. 57. According to the tone of the passage, what can be said about the attitude of the big corporations about bringing about real change in the working condition of the workers engaged via their suppliers to them: (a) True Concern (b) Simple Hogwash (c) Simple PR advocacy (d) A Mix of all the aforesaid 58. What does the author means when he says that sourcing all its tea sustainably by 2020 (a) Taking care of the sustainability of the ecology (b) Taking care of the workers engaged with the real work (c) Making the workers under contract farming into permanent pay roll worker (d) Sharing the profits with the workers 59. What do you think that the author wants to say regarding the working condition of the workers i. The condition cannot be made sustainable as the supplier have different jurisdiction than that of the corporation to whom the raw materials are supplied

iii. If the big corporation would really force their supplier under various levels of buyers regulations, then the working condition of the farmers/ labourers can improve iv. The main culprit is the Government that does nothing for the welfare of the workers and even does not take care of their permanent employment scenario by making them more skilled under collaboration with the big corporations to whom they supply their product via the suppliers (a) Both ii and iii (b) Both iii and iv (c) All of the above (d) Both I and ii 60. What does the author means when he uses the term green washing (a) Face washing (b) Sustainably products producing the

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Attempting to undermine public trust in the Rainforest Alliance scheme is not a responsible approach to addressing these issues, Unilever said in response to the report. The center, known by its Dutch acronym as SOMO, retorts that the Rainforest Alliance auditing process is deeply flawed, based on short visits and not deep investigation. The report points out instances when management at the Kenyan estate tried to cover up housing problems ahead of auditor arrivals. The center says women who have faced sexual harassment are scared to come forward given their lack of belief in the oversight process. In India, the report claims that many workers are employed by tea suppliers to Unilever on short-term contracts that offer them no benefits, an effort to cut costs after a crisis in the Indian tea industry a decade ago. In Assam, as many as 50% of workers in the tea industry are on short contracts, meaning they dont get benefits, the

(c) Window dressing (d)Both B and C Directions for Q. 61 to 64: Read the information given carefully and answer the questions that follow: Following are the conditions for selection of IT Officers in an Organisation. The candidate must (I) Be an engineer in IT/Computers/ Electronics or M.C.A. with Ist class with securing minimum 65% marks. (II) Have an experience of working in the related area at least for two years after acquiring the desired qualification. (II) Have passed the selection test with at least 60% marks. (IV) Be not less than 21 years and not more than 30 years of age as on 1.2.2006. However, if a candidate fulfills all the above criteria except (a) At (II) above, but has an experience of one year and has obtained at least 70% marks at the degree examination the case may be referred to the

ii. An attitude of hypocrisy prevails with the big corporation in sync with that of the suppliers that is preventing the working condition of the farmers to improve

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Chairman and Managing Director of the organization. (b) At (IV) above but less than 32 years of age and has minimum 5 years post-qualification experience of working in the related area, the case may be referred to the divisional Head of the organization. In each question below, detailed information of one candidate is provided. You have to read the information provided carefully and decide which of the following courses of actions you will adopt as regarding status of the candidate based on the conditions stated above. You are not the assume anything other than the information provided in each question. All these cases are given to you as on 1.2.2006. You have to indicate your decision by marking answers to each question as follows: Give answer (a) if the candidate is to be selected. Give answer (b) if the candidate is not to be selected. Give answer (c) if the data is not adequate to take the decision. Give answer (d) if the case is to be referred to the Divisional Head. 61. Sujata Bhatt, is an IT engineer passed out in 1999, with 72% marks. She is working as a Software Engineer since June 2000. Her date of birth is 23rd December 1975. She has cleared the selection test with 65% marks. 62. Nisha Chavan has passed out M.C.A. with 68% marks in the year 2003 and has passed selection test with 62% marks. She has been working as Clerk-cum-Cashier in a Co-operative Bank since 2003. Her date of birth is 16.7.1983. 63. Rakesh Save is a Computer Engineer passed in 2002 at the age of 21 years with 67% marks. He has been working since then as a System Analyst. He has secured 76% marks in selection test. 64. Nilesh Zaveri has passed engineering examination in 2001 with 72% marks and thereafter passed MCM in 2003.

He has been working for last two years since September 2003. He has recently completed 25 years of age. 65. A civil officer has called a meeting of field functionaries where issues of law and order, civil supply, revenue issues etc are to be discussed. How will he make the meeting purposeful and effective? (a) Allowing each official to take note of good performance and bad performance and accordingly officers should be praised or reprimanded. (b) The presiding officers should take note of good performance and b ad performance and accordingly officers should be praised or reprimanded. (c) Those whose performance had been satisfactory should be served with better of commendation and those performance had been bad with a letter of explanation in the review meting itself. (d) Advance information and details be tabulated before the start of meeting so that sufficient time is available to cover a large number of agenda items. 66. A is the widow of B. B and C were the only children of E. C is unmarried and is a doctor. D is the granddaughter of E and studies science. How is A related to D? (a) Aunt (c) Sister (b) Daughter (d) Sister in law

(a) Troop (c) Class 70. (a) Typhoon

(b) Group (d) Crowd (b) Cyclone (d) Flash floods

(c) Hurricane

Directions(71-72): Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate option given. 71. A of fresh air relaxes tensed mind. (a) Breath (c) Breathe (b) Whiff (d) Gulp

72. Kansa was the main . Of the Krishna. (a) Enemy (c) Adversity (b) Adversary (d) Antagonist

73. In certain code language PROMOTION is written as QSP89. How will you write DEMOTION? (a) DE98 (c) EF89 (b) EF98 (d) EG89

74. Probability of success in an event is 2/3. What is the probability that there will be two successful events in next three trials? (a) 3/4 (c) 1/3 (b) 2/9 (d) 4/9

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75. I have one rupee coins, fifty paise coins and twenty five paise coins. The number of coins are in the ratio 2.5: 3 : 4. If the total amount with me is Rs.210, find the number of one rupee coins. (a) 90 (b) 85 (c) 100 (d) 105 76. A dealer buys dry fruits at Rs. 100, Rs. 80 and Rs.60 per Kilogram. He mixes them in the ratio 3:4:5 by weight, and sells at a profit of 50%. At what price per Kilogram does he sell the dry fruit? (a) Rs.80 (c) Rs.95 (b) Rs.100 (d) None of these

Directions (67-68): Choose the option which is the antonym of the word written in capitals. 67. DISARRAY (a) Confusion (c) Composure 68. PLIANT (a) Flexible (c) Inelastic (b) Elastic (d) Stiff (b) Order (d) Frenzy

Directions (69-70): Which is the odd one out in the following. 69.

77. Question below consists of one Assertion (A) and one Reason (R). Examine them and choose the correct answer using the Code below: Assertion (A): Economic growth should not only be driven by domestic demand but also get export oriented.

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Reason (R): Most of the bank NPAs are from the funds transferred for priority sector lending in the rural areas. codes: (a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A. (b) Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A (c) A is true but R is false

(d) A is false but R is ture 78. Pointing out to a lady Deepti said, She is the daughter of the woman who is the mother of the husband of my mother. Who is the lady to Deepti? (a) Aunt (c) Sister (b) Cousin (d) Mother

mts. Find the no. of post required (a) 41 (b) 39 (c) 40 (d) 36 80. There is a group of persons each of whom can complete a piece of work in 16 days, when they are working individually. On the first day one person works, on the second day another person joins him, on the third day one more person joins them and this process continues till the work is completed. In how many days would the work get completed? (a) 31/4 (c) 51/6 (b) 41/3 (d) 61/5

79. A piece of rod 3000 mts. And we have to supply some lamp post. one post is at each end and distance between two consecutive post is 75

ANSWERS
1. (c) 2. (d) 3. (c) 4. (a) 5. (d) 6. (d) 7. (d) 8. (c) 9. (b) 10. (d) Exp. (6-10): From the given information the different possible arrangements are: Boy D Girl P Boy B P B P B Girl Boy Girl Boy Girl M M M 1 2 3

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D D or Girl M M Boy Girl P

Boy B

Girl

Boy

Girl

Boy D 1 2 P B B O/N O/N C/A C/A N/O M D Case I Case II

B 10. D N/O

D A/C P

6. From the given condition statement 1 is true and the arrangement is D P B N A/C O C/A M Hence [d] 7. From given condition statement 1 is true and the arrangement is D P B N/O A/C O/N C/A M Hence [d] 8. If Deepak and Billu are one seat away from each of the statement 1 and 5 is true and hence only (c) is true. Hence [c] 9. If Preeti and Monika are sitting on alternate seats then statement 3 and 4 are true and hence only (b) is true. Hence [b]

M A/C

(a) is true in Case II but not in Case I. (b) is true only if C sits to the left of B in both the cases. (c) is not true. Hence [d] 11. (d) Solution: The data and the calculations are tabulated below Time Av. Age Total age 1998 41 164 2002 (after change) 45 180 30 120 34 136 2002 2006 2006 (after changes) 19 76

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\ The average age of the family in 2008 is 21 years 12. (d) Exp. Sanats average expenditure for ten days is Rs 13. \ His total expenditure for ten days = Rs 130 Also his total expenditure for first five days = Rs 50 and that for the last three days = Rs 48 Now, let his expenditure for the sixth and seventh days be x and y respectively. \130 = 50 + x + y + 48 \

Solution: As we know that 3 points are required to from a triangle. So 10C3 triangles can be formed out of 10 points. Since 7 points are collinear \ 7C3 triangles are not possible. \ Total possible triangles = 10C3 7C3 = 120 35 = 85 17. (c) 18. (b) 19. (d) 20. (a) 21. (c) 22. (a) 23. (c) Solution: In 5 cubic meters of the alloy, volume of the first metal 27. (c) Solution: 26. (c)

(10 times) =10 x 210 = 29

Solution: Most probable score will be = 25 correct + 75 wrong = 25 75 18.75 = 6.25

1 = 25 4

Let CP of 1 banana = Rs. 1 Then C.P. of 5 bananas = Rs. 5 And, Marked Price of 5 bananas = C.P. of 7 bananas = Rs. 7 Hence Profit percentage = 2/5100=40% 28. (a) Solution: Ratio of amount invested by x, y, z is 1: 2: 4 \ ys share is loss

x+ y = 16 2

13. (a) Exp.: The peak flood remains for few days only, hence it is always betterto engage the two group for few days. 14. (b) Solution: The logic here is that all the letters at odd positions (1st, 3rd, .. and so on) are replaced by the letters 1 step backward and all the letters at even positions (2nd, 4th, .. and so on) are replaced by the letters two step backward. Hence code for MOBILE will be: N M; O M; K J; I G; AZ Or NOKIA will be written as MMJGZ, Hence (b) 15. (c) Solution: Using the allegation rule,
Amount of cheap tea 1.44 1.26 = Amount of the dear tea 1.26 1.02

And, volume of the second metal = 3 cubic metres. \ Required weight = (21500) + (32500) = 10,500 kg 24. (d) Solution: For Case (i) (900x) Case (ii) (8001.5x) Against (x) (1.5x)

40 5 = 2 Cubic metres. 100

2 14000 = Rs.4000 1+ 2 + 4

29. (C) Solution: The trader gives a discount of 10 % when 5 articles are bought and a discount of 12.5% when 8 articles are bought. Given the profit is the same.

105

300 (900 2 x) 1 + = 3 x 800 100

\ 4400 = 11x = x = 400 \ 1.5x = 600 25. (a) Solution: In toss of 10 coins, probability of getting exactly one head = P (head on first coin & tail on all the remaining 9 coins) + P (head on second coin & tail on all the remaining 9 coins) + .. + P (head on tenth coin and tail on all the remaining 9 coins) = P (H T T T T T T T T T) + P (T H T T T T T T T T) + . + P (T T T T T T T T T H)

MP 6 = CP 5
30. (a)
Solution:

5(0.9MPCP) = 8(0.875 MP CP) 4.5 MP 5 CP = 7 MP 8 CP 3 CP = 2.5 MP

[(0.74) + (1.00)(2) + (1.7)(3)] = 1.3 6

31. (b)
Solution: Time taken by M to complete the work.
1 = 75 days. 1/15 [1/ 50 + 1/ 30]

0.18 3 = 0.24 4
16. (b)

1 1 1 1 10 + 10 + 10 +...............+ 2 2 2 210

\ The ratio in which R, S and M share

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the earning
1 1 1 : : = 3:5: 2 50 30 75 2 6200 = Rs.1240 \ Ms share = 10 32. (a)

\ \

A: B: C = 3: 2: 2 Average of A, B and is

Solution: Considering all vowels i.e. A, E, I, A, as one, the count of remaining letters = 4 Hence these 5 (4 + 1) letters can be arranged in 5! ways. 4! Now 4 vowels can be arranged in ways 2! as 2As are identical 1994 203 = 5! \ Total number of arrangements = 4! = 1440

3 74 + 2 84 + 2 78 = 78 7 43. (a)

Solution: Total loan over the years 1990 118 44. (c) Solution: Disbursement in 1992 = 140 Disbursement of all banks in 1993 = 154 Hence % increase = 45. (d)
154140 100 140

Solution: At least (60 + 70 100) = 30 % like both cats and dogs. Thus at least (30 + 80 100) = 10 % like all the three. 33. (c) Solution: At least (70 + 75 + 80 + 85) 300 = 10 % 34. (c) Solution: M 13th letter & code is 1 + 6 = 19 A 1st letter & code is 1 + 6 = 7 C 3rd letter & code is 3 + 6 = 9 H 8th letter & code is 8 + 6 = 14 I 9th letter & code is 9 + 6 = 15 N 14th letter & code is 15 + 6 = 20
th 106 E 5 letter & code is 5 + 6 = 11

1991 120

1992 140

1993 154

Hence average was least in 1990

2! 50. (c) Solution:

The sales be Rs. x since he earns commission of Rs. 400 per month, his annual commission = Rs. 4800 4800 = 0.08 (x 100,000) x = 1, 60,000 51. (c) Again all the given alternatives indicate towards explaining what is mentioned in the question, however the best answer has to be which best brings out the role of the corporate sector vis-vis rural development. A does not link it with rural development, B only specifies the role of increased competition in creating the conditions wherein the rural markets become important for the corporate. C however goes further and indicates towards the model and its rationale, which could practically bring the role of the corporate sector into rural development. D is more a shadow of C as it reinforces the PPP model in a different perspective. 52. (c) Solution: Let the total work be 1 unit. Work done by 1 1 7 + = J and K in the first 2 days = 15 20 60 units work done in 8 such time periods of 2 7 56 days i.e., period of 16 days = 8 = 60 60 units & Now remaining work = 1/15
1 J can do 15 units in one days. So J will take 1 more day to complete this work.

= 10%

46. (c) Banks A, B and E reached the target. 47. (a) Solution: Loan disbursement in 1990 = 118 and in 1994 = 203 % increase = 203118 100 =72 48. (a) Solution: Naming them as D, E and F, respectively, and taking 1st and 3rd (1st and 2nd should not be taken), then:
118

Using the same logic code for DANGER is 10 7 20 13 11 24 35. (c) 36. (b) 37. (b) 38. (b) 39. (d) 40. (a) Solution:

2 women can be arranged in 4 seats in 4 p2 ways and 3 men can be arranged in remaining 6 seats is 6p3 ways. \Total no. of possible arrangements = 4p2 6p3 = 4! 6! = 4 3 6 5 4 = 1440
2! 3!

D 6.80 6.50 0.30 1 = = = F 6.50 5.00 1.50 5

Taking 2nd and 3rd

41. (b) Solution x/24 = 500/800 42. (b) Solution: The number of students in class A and B are in the ratio of 3:2, since the average of A & B together is 4 marks more than average of A and 6 marks less than the average of B. Similarly the ratio of number of students in B & C is in the ratio 1:1 x = 15 days

E 6.80 6.50 = F 6.50 6.00

0.3 3 = 0.5 5

D:F=1:5 and E: F = 3:5 \ D : E : F= 1:3:(5+5) = 1:3:10 (Note, we are not making E equal, but adding it) or If we take D:F = 3:15 and E:F=6:10, then: D: E: F = 3: 6: (15+10) = 3:6:25 49. (a)

So total time taken = 16+1=17 days. 53. (c) 54. (a) 55. (a) 56. (d) 57. (b) 58. (b) 59. (a) 60. (c) 61. (d)

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Solution: Sujata bhatt satisfy criteria (i), (ii) and (iii). But her age is more than 30 years but less than 32 on 1. 2. 2006. As her total work experience is more than 5 years (since June 2000) so her case is to be referred to the Divisional Head. 62. (b) Solution: MCA with 68 % criteria (i) is satisfied Selection test with 62 % criteria (iii) is satisfied Born on 16.7.1983 criteria (iv) is satisfied Experience as Clerk cum Cashier criteria (ii) is not satisfied Though he have 1 year + experience (in different field) but his marks in degree is not more than 70 % so her case cannot be referred to Chairman and Managing Director as well. Nisha Chavan is not to be selected. 63. (a) Solution: Computer Engineer with 67 % criteria (i) is satisfied. Working as System Analyst since 2002 criteria (ii) is satisfied. Passed selection test with 76 % marks criteria (iii) is satisfied. In 2002 Rakesh Saves age is 21 years criteria (iv) is satisfied. Hence Rakesh is to be selected. 64. (c) Solution: As we dont know the stream of Engineering Degree of Nilesh as well as the percentage of marks secured by Nilesh in selection test is not known. 65. (d) Exp.: A structured meeting is always preferred when there are large number of agenda items.

66. (b) 67. (b) 68. (d) 69. (d) 70. (d) 71. (a) 72. (b) 73. (c) Solution: PQ RS OP And code for MOTION is 89. Similarly code for DEMOTION will be: EF89 74. (d) Solution: Let the three events are denoted by E1, E2 and E3. The probability of success in each of these events is 2/3, hence probability of failure in each of these events will be 1/3. i.e. P (E1) = P (E2) = P (E3) = 2/3 and P (E1) = P (E2) = P (E3) = 1/3 (where E1, E2 and E3 demote the complementary events of E1, E2 and E3 respectively, i.e., failures in E1, E2 and E3 respectively) The probability that there will be two successful events in next three trials = P (Success in E1 & E2 and Failure in E3) + P (Success in E1 & E3 and Failure in E2) + P (Success in E2 & E3 and Failure in E1) = P (E1).P (E2).P (E3) + P (E1).P (E2).P (E3) + P (E1).P (E2).P (E3) =3

\ value of one rupee coins = number of one rupee coins = 215 = 105 76. (d) Solution: Cost price of (3 + 4 +5) = 12 Kg of fruits = Rs. (300 + 320 + 300) = Rs.920. S.P. at a profit of 50% = Rs.1380. S.P. of fruits per Kg = 1380/2= Rs. 115 77. (a) Both the statements are true in their own sense however R cannot be the reason for A, as improving the regulatory framework of the financial system is only going to help curbing intentional defaults while most of the rural area defaults are situational rather than intentional. 78. (a) Exp. The relationship may be analyzed in the following manner: Husband of my mother My Father My Fathers mother My Grandmother My Grandmothers Daughter My Fathers sister my Aunt the lady in the photograph is Deeptis Aunt. 79. (a) 3000/75+1 =40+1 =41 80. (c) Solution: Portion of work completed on the first day = 1/16 portion of work completed on the second day = 2/16 similarly, the portion of work completed in the third day is 3/16 and that in the fourth day is 4/16 and so on. In the first five days, the portion of work completed = 1/16 (1+2+3+4+5) = 15/16 Portion of work to be completed next day
1 15 = 1/16 = Six men would take 1/6th of 16

107

2 2 1 4 = 3 3 3 9

75. (d) Solution: Ratio of numbers 1 Rs, fifty paise, twenty five paise coins = 2.5:3:4 \ Ratio of value of coins

3 4 2.5 1 : : = 5 : 3 : 2 2 4
Let amount at 1 Rs coins, 50 paise coins and 25 paise coins be 5x , 3x and 2x = 210 (given) x = 21

a day to completed 1/16th of the work. \Total time = 5 1/6 days

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Notes

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