Sania Mirza achieves career-best ranking of six

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Touching a new high, India’s tennis ace Sania Mirza on Monday became world number six in doubles, her career-best ranking, as the new chart was released following the conclusion of the French Open.

Courtesy a quarterfinals appearance at the Roland Garros, Sania earned 430 ranking points along with partner Cara Black to jump eight places in the ranking charts.Sania and Cara had lost to eventual champions Shuai Peng and Su-Wei Hsieh.

“When I started the season this year in January, one of my goals was to better my career-best world ranking. I am happy to have achieved this today,” Sania said from Birmingham, where she is gearing up for the grass court season, leading to Wimbledon championships.

Sania’s father and coach Imran Mirza said,”Sania has played very consistently this season and has been rewarded. I believe she has the potential to go further.”

India’s number one singles player Ankita Raina also achieved her career-best rank, 262, with a jump of 28 places. Ankita had ended runner-up at a USD 25,000 event in Indonesia to earn 30 points.

In the ATP rankings, Somdev Devvarman dropped out of top-100 as he lot 23 places to be 119 in the singles chart. He had made a first round exit at the French Open.

In the doubles, out of action Leander Paes continued to be the highest ranked player at number 13. Rohan Bopanna was next best at number 17.

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Normal power supply to Delhi to be restored in 15 days: Goyal 

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As Delhi reeled under long spells of power outages and scorching summer heat, Power Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said it will take 15 days to restore normal power supply even as temporary measures to boost generation were put in place.

Goyal said the Centre has drawn up an action plan to ease the power crisis in the city with short-term measures to generate 400 megawatts of additional power by tonight. Speaking after a two-and-a-half hour emergency meeting with Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung and senior executives of Delhi Transco, Power Grid Corporation and power utilities, the minister warned that dilapidated power grids could not cope with the extra electricity needed to meet demand. Inadequate transmission lines meant Delhi could absorb 400 MW of power on top of its existing 5,300 MW, falling short of current peak demand of 5,800 MW. He blamed the “massive policy paralysis, poor decision making” of the previous Delhi government for the problems in power sector. The Centre has offered its assistance to the Delhi government and its utilities to restore power transmission systems in mission mode, the minister said.  Goyal, however, added that transmission lines damaged by last month’s severe storm will be repaired in 15 days.  Besides repairing broken lines within 24 hours, the government has ordered GAIL to provide extra natural gas to power plants in the national capital.  North India has endured a heatwave in the last week, with temperatures in some parts of Delhi reaching a 62-year high, sending power demand surging.  The meeting was called amid protests in several parts of the city over long and recurrent outages in the scorching summer heat. With the city reeling under long spells of power outages and blistering heat, Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday held an emergency meeting with Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung and other top officials to discuss the power crisis.  “We are suffering because of the inaction of the previous government,” Goyal told reporters before the meeting with Jung in the Power Ministry.  Delhi on Monday sizzled at 45.5 degree Celsius, six notches above normal and hottest temperature for the month of June in last ten years in the city.  The power outages have triggered protests by various political parties. More than 20 AAP MLAs on Tuesday staged a protest outside Union Minister Harsh Vardhan’s house in East Delhi demanding urgent steps by the Centre to improve electricity supply in the city.  On Monday, Congress MLAs and leaders locked Delhi Chief Secretary SK Srivastava in his room for over one-and-a-half hours, demanding immediate improvement in the supply of power and water in the national capital.  The Lieutenant Governor had on Sunday issued few directives to control the current power problem which included snapping power supply to malls after 10 PM.  Jung had also ordered that high mast halogen lamps in the streets, which consume more power, should be switched off during night peak hours to conserve energy.  Government establishments, including Delhi Secretariat and other government offices, universities, colleges have been advised to switch off air conditioning between 3.30 and 4.30 PM to conserve power during day peak hours.  Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung has ordered some urgent measures to save power.  – Power supply to malls will not be available after 10 pm – High mast halogen lamps in the streets be switched off during night peak hours – All govt. offices, including Delhi Secretariat, and universities asked to switch off air conditioners – Air conditioners be switched off between 3:30 & 4:30 pm in all govt. offices. This does not include emergency services and critical institutions such as hospitals etc. – Power distribution companies to strengthen their call centres – Power distribution co. to announce schedule informing people about the timings for power cuts – Meeting held with top government officials and CEOs of private power distribution companies – These measures will be adopted with immediate effect According to authorities, the recent storm has damaged transmission lines and it will take 20 days to put things in order.

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Central govt not serious in solving Delhi power crisis: AAP

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The response of the union power minister Mr Piyush Goyal on the current power crisis in Delhi is deeply disappointing and full of contradictions.  It is extremely unfortunate that the BJP’s central government has decided to indulge in a political blame-game instead of showing the much needed emergency response to deal with the alarming situation.

According to the Aam aadmi Party (AAP), the power minister presented a sorry picture and appeared content to leave the people of Delhi at the god’s mercy, in stark contrast to the tall claims made by the BJP during the election campaign for the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections.

It is shocking that it took the central government more than 10 days to wake up after a thunderstorm had hit the national capital, which is now being described as the major reason behind the destruction of electricity transmission lines, leading to long power cuts.

If such is the state of affairs of the emergency preparedness in the national capital, then the situation in other parts of the country can be well imagined.

Mr Piyush Goyal needs to be reminded that the former Congress government led by Ms Sheila Dikshit was shown the door by the people for being hand in glove with the private power distribution companies (discoms), and his government too, cannot get away by merely blaming her regime.

In his own words, the power minister admitted that “there is adequate power in the entire system” and the central government can provide as much power as the state requires.

The obvious question then is – what is the central government waiting for ? Does it want the situation to be out of control before it will start taking some steps ?

The union minister has blamed the unending power cuts on transmission and distribution problems. It is, however, extremely surprising that at a time when the people have been suffering due to the electricity shortage for more than a week now, the central government, which is currently controlling the city administration, is hesitant to fix the responsibility on the issue.

Why are the union power minister and the city administration shying away from taking strict action against the private discoms for transmission and distribution problems ?

 The AAP demands that both the central government and the city administration should stop treating the discoms with kid gloves and should show a strong resolve to provide relief to the people from the long power cuts at any cost.  

The priority is to ensure uninterrupted power supply to all parts of the city on an emergency basis and all other related issues should be sorted out later.  

The AAP does not agree with the power minister’s views that the discoms will have to provide details about the power cuts at 8 AM everyday, the party demands that in case of any power cuts, the public must be informed atleast 24 hours in advance. Though such a situation should not arise in the first place.

Mere statements at this juncture will not be enough since the public patience is fast running out and surprise checks should be carried out at complaint centres of discoms to ensure that these centres are working 24×7 and complaints of the people are being addressed at the earliest.

AAP leaders and MLAs, led by party leader Manish Sisodia, on Tuesday morning submitted a memorandum at the residence of union health minister Mr Harshvardhan, who is also the state BJP President and Lok Sabha MP from Chandni Chowk  (copy of the memorandum attached with this release).

Regards

AAP Media Cell

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Govt not control media: Javadekar 

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Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Minister Prakash Javadekar believes that government should not exercise control over media.

Addressing members of Indian Women Press Corps (IWPC), Javadekar on Monday said that the media should have its own mechanisms so that government never needs to exercise control.  “Ideologically and philosophically, earlier some people used to talk about withering away of the state. That was their belief,” Javadekar said when a member mentioned the remark he made few days back.  “Our belief is that government should not control or run the media. The government should never need to exercise control, media should have its own mechanism,” he said.  Two days back Javadekar had in an interview said he was “philosphically or ideologically” willing to work towards abolition of the Information and Broadcasting ministry.  “Now take the case of Prasar Bharati, the biggest challenge is how Doordarshan becomes the first choice of the viewer. In whichever model it works, we’ll choose that. We have given autonomy but result should also come,” he said.  The freedom of press is the result of a long struggle, Javadekar said, adding that with freedom comes responsibility.  The minister also said that the government is in favour of infrastructure augmentation in border areas where the people were getting to hear propaganda of other countries but the voice of Indian government at times did not reach.  He said he was going to have consultations with Prasar Bharati and I&B ministry officials regarding this issue.  During the interaction, Javadekar mentioned that his father had worked in a publication and that he had been a member of the Press Council which is often called a “toothless wonder”.

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BJP attacks Congress as of college debate

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 Leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge compared present parliament with Mahabharta added  though Pandavas were frugal in number as compared to hundred that of Kauravas,  could not be defeated.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi  was seen enjoying the proceedings amid thumping of desks, including that of  Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Kharge expressed confidence that the party will bounce back to power and the National Democratic Alliance should not think that it will continue to be in power forever.

Congress Kharge on the agenda set by President Pranab Mukherjee in his address said it is repackaging of work done by the UPA.

He asked the Narendra Modi government to implement the promises made without trumpeting and “arrogance”.

Congress, with 44 members in the Lok Sabha, assured that they will keep on the pressure to ensure implementation of people-oriented programmes irrespective of the small number of members it has in the House.

BJP ruling party attacked  Congress for its 65 years of misrule,  said it was unthinkable that a national party has to be welcomed as a regional party in Lok Sabha but promised to take the opposition party along in the decision-making process.

“We never imagined that we will have to welcome a national party as a regional party in this House…What prompted this to happen? Why this mandate?…People have punished you for your misrule for 65 years,” BJP member Rajiv Pratap Rudy said, initiating a debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address.

His remarks triggered protests from opposition benches, with Rudy saying that since there was no Leader of the Opposition; Congress would not be able to participate in decision-making on major issues like appointment of Chief Vigilance Commissioner, CBI Director or Lokpal.

“Earlier, Sushma Swaraj (as the Leader of the Opposition) used to give her views, but the then Prime Minister used to have his way. But we will not leave you behind, we will take you along. This is our promise. Our Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) is large-hearted, Rudy said.

He, however, said Congress party’s suggestions would not be accepted “if you give suggestions which reflect the way in which you had been running the country for 65 years”.

As the din continued, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan appealed for order and Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu urged members not to create any disturbance as it was the first working day of the session.

To this, some Congress members shouted “you never allowed anyone to speak earlier.”

Trinamool Congress and CPI(M) members were also on their feet, with some of them urging the Speaker to direct Rudy to speak on the Motion and not digress.

BSP demands dismissal of UP govt, stages walkout in RS

BSP on Tuesday demanded dismissal of the Samajwadi Party government in Uttar Pradesh over deteriorating law and order situation and staged a walkout in the Rajya Sabha.

Raising the issue soon after the House met for the day, BSP chief Mayawati raised the issue of alleged Badaun rape case and the killing of a BJP leader in Dadri saying there was total collapse of law and order in the state.

“The law and order situation is very bad. There is need for the central government to intervene and immediately impose President’s Rule in the state and dismiss the state government,” she said.

Mayawati said despite promising a CBI probe into the Badaun rape case, the Chief Minister is yet to recommend it.

After this, BSP members rushed to the Well and started raising slogans demanding dismissal of the Akhilesh Yadav government.

Three SP members too entered the Well and raised counter slogans. Despite repeated requests by Chairman Hamid Ansari for order in the House, BSP and SP members did not relent, leading to a ten-minute adjournment of the House.
When the House reassembled, Mayawati again raised the demand but with no ruling from the Chair, she led her party members out of the House.

Modi today introduced to the Rajya Sabha 43 of the 44 members of his Council of Ministers.

All the ministers were introduced in the House, barring Minister of State for Heavy Industries Pon Radhakrishnan, who was absent.Finance, Corporate and Defence Minister Arun Jaitley was late for the introduction, while Road Transport, Highways, Shipping and Rural Development Minister Nitin Gadkari could just make it when his introduction was halfway through.

Those introduced included BJP top brass including Home Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Parliamentary Affairs, Urban Development, Housing and Poverty Alleviation Minister M Venkaiah Naidu.

Among the ministers representing BJP’s allies were Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan (LJP), Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises Minister Anant Geete (Shiv Sena), Food Processing Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal (SAD) and Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju (TDP).

Others introduced by the Prime Minister included Social Justice and Empowerment Minister T C Gehlot, HRD Minister Smriti Zubin Irani and Health and Family Welfare Minister Harsh Vardhan.

In upper house AITC, CPI M, JD U respective members Derek, Sitaram, KC Tyagi made some very emotional and intellectual speeches which cultivated some interest but with the opening session of Lower house with Rajiv in presence of some eloquent speakers in the Treasury benches gave lukewarm response to the telecast. Nation with rich cultural and philosophical ideas as Sitaram enunciated found the speakers of medicore quality on board  thus lacking wisdom ,spiritual touch to the entire proceedings was the scene of nearly college debate consists of novice and materialistic voice aired both houses of parliament.

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Narmada Dam Oustees Demand Legal, Just Rehabilitation First!

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• 
  
• Adivasis and Activists Warn the Maharashtra Government Against Permitting Completion of Sardar Sarovar Dam

Today a large delegation of adivasis affected by Sardar Sarovar Dam(SSP)in the Nandurbar district of Maharashtra met the Collector, Pradip P. and CEO, Zila Parishad, Nandurbar and held four hour long dialogue on the issue of rehabilitation of thousands of adivasis in maharastra before raising dam height to 17meters to completetion.

As Anandi ben Mehta, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, has started a campaign expressing her confidence that Mr Modi, the Prime Minister of India, would soon permit the erection of 17meters high gates to finish off the dam. The people in the Narmada valley have shown the courage and commitment to question the same.

“We have been always  presenting the data to establish the truth regarding displacement & environment but now we will be much more cautious about the politics behind the vested interest that is being pushed in violation of law and justice both” asserted Yogini Khanolkar. Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) has always declared that there are 2.5 lac. people residing in the submergence area of SSP (in 3 states) as on today in the communities with thousands of pakka houses, markets, shops with best of horticulture and agriculture, millions of trees,temples and mosques. All this just cannot be drowned by erection and closing of gates without rehabilitation since that will be in violation of Supreme Court’;s judgments. The question is whether Mr. Modi would act like the CM of Gujarat or PM of whole of India? Will he take the steps  to ensure that no condition is flouted and no family , that has not obtained all the rehab benefits would get affected?

If the Dam is pushed ahead letting waters in SSP reservoir rise by 17meters above ahead disastrous flood till last year, Who will take the responsibility for the contempt of court and the case of illegal submergence? And who would wipe the tears of adivasis, farmers, others and compensate the loses? Will there be a thorough enquiry into compliance on the environmental conditions of the MoEF, the Central Ministry ?

In today’;s meeting in the Collector’;s office the NBA team has categorically conveyed to the Government of Maharashtra that there are not less than one 1000 adivasi families who are yet to be rehabilitated with land, houses, plots, irrigation and other amenities. They have also demanded full fledged health facilities and rationing with regularity and boat service in every village, since last year itself people had faced hell, death of destruction without all these services. While the situation is horrifying till date and the monsoon is at the door steps the senior officials have promised that they will take the challenge and ensure regular availability of doctors and medicines in the valley. Noorji Vasawe of Chimalkhedi narrated the story of snake bites and crocodile attacks without a doctor or the Barge with mobile dispensary anywhere in the site. A schoolgirl died,slipping into the river turned reservoir as there are no jettis nor lifting water scheme…

Where is agricultural land for rehabilitation? The collector is promising to show the land once again much of which is already shown and rejected. NBA proposal has been that of denuded forest land or private purchased at market rate. ‘;’;We cannot tolerate  nor accept any money package. Cash  in lieu of land is neither legal nor beneficial to any adivasi. Only 51 adivasis who accepted cash, feel totally cheated as they could not purchase land within the amount and many of them are willing to return back the money package of 10 lakhs per hectare’;, said Manglya Pavara. In Madhya Pradesh the policy to pay cash for land led to fake registries scam! which is under enquiry as per the High Court order.

NBA appeals today to all the supporters to watch any move to raise the height and flood the valley where there are 2.5 lakh people with farms and houses, through a decision by Modi’;s government, it will be illegal and unjust .

NBA Demands:

• Immediate halt to any process to raise the dam height and expedite fair and just rehabilitation with land, livelihood and rehab sites, as per law.
• To initiate a review of costs and benefits of the project that is proving to be taking up a big toll of nature, life and livelihood.

Medha Patkar Vijay Valvi Yogini Khanolkar Noorji Valwe Chetan Salve

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Air strikes kill 15 militants in Pak 

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At least 15 militants were killed on Tuesday when Pakistani fighter jets pounded targets in the country’s northwestern tribal region, a day after a brazen Taliban assault on Karachi airport.

The early morning air strikes were launched at Taliban hideouts in Tirah valley of Khyber tribal agency. A military official said that nine hideouts of terrorists were destroyed near Pak-Aghan border.  “As per initial reports 15 terrorists are killed,” the official said.  Military sources said the death toll could be higher. No further details were immediately available. The attack came a day after the deadly assault at Karachi international airport in which 12 security personnel, 8 civilian and 10 terrorists were killed.  The outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed responsibility for the attack.

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Adolescent girls in Mumbai interact with UNICEF Ambassador

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Mumbai, June 09, 2014: Priyanka Chopra today spent a meaningful evening, with adolescent girls associated with the Deepshikha programme that is supported by UNICEF and Barclays in Mumbai. Along with the volunteers from Barclays, she was delighted to interact with these bright and spirited young girls who shared their life experiences especially those associated with Deepshikha and their aspirations for the future.

Bollywood power player and international recording artist and Goodwill Ambassador of UNICEF who has been supporting the issues of adolescent girls for over eight years has a special interest in equipping and empowering girls with relevant life skills.

UNICEF launched the ‘Deepshikha’ programme guided by a strong conviction that it is imperative to strengthen adolescent and young women’s groups through imparting life skill, enterprise skill and networking skill training. Empowerment is the heart and soul of the Deepshikha programme.

While interacting with the girls, Priyanka Chopra shared “Girls have the ability to build their own futures. I am glad to be associated with UNICEF Deepshikha programme that aims at empowering the young girls of India. My spirit runs parallel to the Deepshikha programme and I strongly advocate that parents, caregivers and educators must give the girls more and more opportunities to grow in their life. I personally feel that our regular efforts in empowering the adolescent girls will contribute to the growth of our country”

Through the Building Young Futures programme with UNICEF, Barclays has helped 65,000 girls and young women in the state of Maharashtra to develop entrepreneurial skills and build self-confidence through financial education and leadership training, empowering them to have prosperous and sustainable livelihoods. Almost 25,000 women have joined over 1,200 collective bank accounts, saving appox 30 lakhs to invest in income generating activities.

Ram Gopal, Chief Operating Officer, Barclays India, said “ Barclay’s is committed to supporting young people to develop the right skills to fulfil their potential.  Along with UNICEF, we are committed to empower the society by teaching young women that they are equal to men, whilst providing them with the skills to overcome their daily challenges and become stronger individuals. Between 2012 and 2015, through the UNICEF partnership, Barclays aims to directly benefit 74,000 young people in Brazil, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Uganda and Zambia. This is part of Barclays’ ambition to change 5 Million Young Futures by 2015”

In India, almost 20 million adolescent girls (14- 17 years) are still out of school. Around 42 per cent of girls in India marry before the legal age of 18 years. 56 per cent of adolescent girls are anemic and vulnerable to poor maternal health.

Rajeshwari Chandrashekhar, Chief of Field office in Maharashtra shared, “Adolescence is an age of opportunity and UNICEF is committed to identifying key platforms and partnerships through which it can empower and equip adolescent girls with relevant lifeskills . The Deepshikha programme has been extremely successful in doing this and we look forward to expanding this progrannme across the state”

This event was an opportunity for the girls to share their experiences with Priyanka Chopra who has been advocating for an overall protective environment for adolescent girls through her visits to many adolescent girls’ projects across the country.

Deepshikha program will be scaled up and aim at working with adolescent girls and women’s self-help group members for socio-economic empowerment and to prepare them for better future.

About UNICEF:

UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do.  Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere. 

For more information about UNICEF and its work visit: www.unicef.org and www.unicef.org/india

For more information, please contact:

• Caroline den Dulk, Chief of Communication, UNICEF India

Tel: +91-, Email: @unicef.org

• Geetanjali Master, Communication Specialist, UNICEF India

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Taliban attack ASF camp at Karachi international airport 

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Taliban militants on Tuesday attacked a training camp of the Airport Security Force near Karachi international airport here, but fled after Pakistani forces repulsed the assault, a day after an all-night siege at the facility left nearly 40 people dead.

Two militants attacked the camp number 2, located at the ASF academy in Bitai Abad, near the Jinnah International Airport which had been cleared of militants after fierce clashes between forces and terrorists yesterday.  The attackers failed to penetrate the security cordon and managed to flee into nearby congested residential areas.  ASF spokesman Col Tahir Ali said the incident had been played up and dismissed reports about five terrorists entering the base camp and engaging the security forces.  “The fact is that two men on a motorcycle came this morning to gate D of our camp and fired on two lady ASF officials on duty there but as soon as our forces retaliated and took positions after a brief exchange of fire they fled into the neighbourhood of Pehalwan Goth,” Ali said.  He said the situation was now under control and the paramilitary Rangers and police had launched a search operation in the vicinity to find the two terrorists. “The Pakistan army is also carrying out surveillance from helicopters and the situation is under control. The Jinnah international airport is in control of the authorities,” he said.  Earlier conflicting reports about the attack emerged over the number of terrorists who had attacked the ASF camp.  A spokesman for the Pakistan International Airlines said flight schedule had been disrupted as passengers and visitors to the Jinnah airport were evacuated to safe locations after the attack at the ASF camp this morning.  “Some flights were disturbed and a foreign airline flight to Dubai couldn’t take off on time due to the disturbance but now the airport and runaway is under total control of security forces and operations are getting back to normal,” he said.  The Twitter account of the CAA, @AirportPakistan tweeted that EK 606 from Dubai which was expected to arrive at Karachi airport at 12:50pm is now returning to Dubai.  A Twitter account allegedly operated by Omar Khorasani of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Mohmand faction tweeted today that the group has carried out this second attack. This is the same area from where a group of 10 terrorists, who attacked and laid siege to the old Karachi airport on Sunday night, gained access to the restricted site.  Eleven airport security guards, along with a paramilitary ranger and a policeman, 14 civilian workers and 10 militants were killed in the previous attack.

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Wang’s trip of great significance: China 

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China on Tuesday said Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s just concluded visit to India is of “great significance” and sent out a message that Chinese leaders pay high attention to bilateral ties and their mutual interests far outweigh disputes.

“From this visit, we know that Sino-India relation is now in a new age of gearing up,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told a media briefing in Beijing.  “I believe that Foreign Minister’s visit sent the following messages, that is, Chinese leaders pay attention to growing relations with India, common interests between the two countries far outweigh disputes. “…we are natural partners rather than rivals and the Chinese and Indian dream integrate with each other, so we should build closer development partnership with each other,” she said.  Besides holding talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Wang also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and called on President Pranab Mukherjee during his stay in New Delhi in the last two days.  “Indian leaders also responded positively,” Hua said, pointing to the observations by Mukherjee that the two countries which had a combined population of 2.6 billion people make the most magnificence map in the human civilisation.  Modi said that Wang brought important messages from President Xi Jinping to chart a new course for the development of India and the two sides should maintain development, cement practical cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, so as to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas, Hua stated.  “Therefore, we believe that Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to India at this time is of great significance. We expect to make joint efforts with India to bring our amicable and friendly relations with India to a new high,” she said.  “We believe that the development of Sino-India relations are not only in the benefits of the two people but will also help peace, stability and development of the region and beyond,” she said.  A commentary in the state-run Global Times by China’s veteran strategic analyst Ma Jiali said “India is a weighty strategic and cooperative partner of China” and Wang has established the direct high-level political contact with the Modi government.  “Modi has been making overtures to China. He has invited Xi to visit India later this year,” he said.  “China is taking the diplomatic initiative in dealing with India given the strategic significance of the bilateral relationship. We must clearly send a positive signal to the new Modi government about our willingness to further cement ties with India,” he said.  “The bilateral relations are still dogged by mutual suspicion and border disputes have long been a contentious point, which are bound to affect the bilateral relationship,” he said.  Modi accused China of its “expansionist mindset” at an election rally earlier this year over the China-Indian border issue. “Nonetheless, as long as both sides have a keen interest in solving the issue and are willing to negotiate with great sincerity, it won’t be a big issue,” Ma said.  “Modi secured great economic success as chief minister of Gujarat and he visited China four times during his tenure. Putting development and growth on the top agenda, the prime minister has vowed to rejuvenate the ailing economy,” he said. This spurs optimism about the likelihood of boosting ties, he said. Modi must bridge the deficit by optimising the mix of export commodities and seeking greater access to the Chinese market, he said. China hopes for balanced trade between the two and hopes to import more goods from India which are adaptable to the Chinese market and have competitive prices, he said.  “China has high expectations of the new Indian government and takes an active posture to promote ties, which will hopefully lead to more mutual visits by top officials from the two sides,” Ma said.

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Middle East rail projects valued at $270bn, get your share of it.

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Jamie, Middle East rail 2015

To Me

 

Today at 11:17 AM

If you have trouble viewing this email, read the online version

Dear N.K, The Middle East and North African region is currently one of the world’s fastest growing markets for rail. More than $270bn of planned investment set out by governments and rail operators is either under way already or close to being announced.   This massive investment will improve the logistics infrastructure and make urban transport more efficient in the rapidly growing states of the MENA region. Companies from the following profiles are needed to support regional rail projects: Track infrastructure Rolling Stock Signaling & communication Operations & security Maintenance System integration Engineering/construction ICT Revenue management And more… Are you looking to engage with these operators?  Then it’s time to get Middle East Rail 2015 in to your budgets!  Past attendees to Middle East Rail include: Etihad Rail Ministry of Public Works RTA NTA SRO & SAR Qatar Rail Oman Railways And many more… Showcase your Brand and Engage the community with our Sponsorship & Exhibiting opportunities. Download sponsorship brochure In 2014, more than 150 companies sponsored Middle East Rail 2014. This number will double in 2015 and, so far, our renewal rates are over 80%, with many sponsors and exhibitors increasing their presence and budgets.  View floorplan and exhibition space available We are offering you the opportunity to network with regional buyers and further expand your business into the region.  Over 4000 attendees come here to:  Hear from international experts as well as the major Middle East operators Learn where the next big projects will begin in 2015 Learn how to manage a rail project from start to finish Find out where the greatest opportunities lie for your business Enquire now about your tailor-made package.  Contact Jamie Hosie at Jamie.hosie@terrapinn.com or +97144402501. Jamie Hosie Project Director Middle East Rail 2015

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Presidential Address All Promises No Direction – Exclusive

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Ravinder Singh

To Ajit Jhaamitabhth@yahoo.comAnand Ganesh and 355 More…

 

 

 Today at 12:55 AM

Presidential Address All Promises No Direction – Exclusive
June10, 2014

While some commentators believe PM is in a hurry to achieve everything
in 5-7 years others believe he is extreme right including BJP
Spokesperson Nalin Kohli.

But this inventor believe its all Promise of Shreshtra Bharat, and
Sabka Vikas which is similar to my Subka Bharat Mission 2014.

1. Poverty can’t be eliminated without just and fair Distribution of
Wealth Generation, people having share in companies, natural
resources, linking wages to GDP, high tax collection and providing
free Education & Healthcare and Subsidizing Unprofitable Farming.

2. Biggest challenge for the new government is to Improve Earnings of
Farmers and Rural population by reserving Food Storage Processing and
Marketing with farmers.

3. There is no mention of Hydro Power development – India has over
200,000 MW of Multi Purpose Hydro Power Projects yet to be developed
which clean and cheapest source of reliable power.

4.  R&D is mentioned but Protecting Indian Intellectual Property of
Indian Inventors for Global Market is missing.

5.  We can’t be investing in Bullet Trains when most of the Coaches
are Reconditioned and in poor condition, most the tracks need
Renovations and Realignments.

6.  Easy Bank credit to Farmers, Entrepreneurs, MSMEs, Inventors and
elimination of moneylenders.

7.  Every Engineering and Medical College must have world class
teaching facilities, not just one IIT or AIIMS in each state.

8.  Exports growth is VITAL for Indian Economy but it must be High
Tech Innovative Products.

9.  India should develop Technologies substituting IMPORTS.

10. India should be developing INNOVATIVE PROJECTS that are most
economical and consumer friendly and be world leader in this.

India should Be World Leader in Many Sectors Of Economy To Be Shreshta
Bharat for Sabka Vikas.

Ravinder Singh, National General Secretary.
Sabka Bharat Mission 2019
Y-77, Hauz Khas, New Delhi -110016
Ph: 9650421857, 9718280435
Sabkabharatmission2019@gmail.com

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Rajya Sabha number game may not hinder Modi Government

10062014

 

Ashok B Sharma

To Me-Naresh Sagar 

 

Rajya Sabha number game may not hinder Modi Government

ASHOK B SHARMA*

It is all the number game that matters in Indian Parliament today. The BJP has won a majority of 282 seats on its own in the 543-elected member Lower House – the Lok Sabha. The pre-poll NDA alliance jigged up the number much higher to 336. This places the ruling coalition in a comfortable position in the Lok Sabha.

The 129 year-old Congress party has been shattered to its lowest score at 44 –  way below the 10 per cent seats required to secure the party leader in the House the status of Leader of Opposition, along with Cabinet rank under the Salary and Allowances of the Leader of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977. This is a pathetic state of affairs for a party that has ruled the country for several decades.

Reading the writing on the wall, the Congress did not project its tall leader and scion of Nehru-Gandhi family, Rahul Gandhi to lead the party in the House. The onus now fell upon the former Railway Minister Mallikarjun Kharge to lead the party in the house. To allow unanimous election of the BJP candidate Sumitra Mahajan as a Speaker of the Lok Sabha was a compulsion for the Opposition parties.

The Congress is, therefore, at the mercy of the Speaker whether or not to recognise Kharge as the Leader of the Opposition. It is clear from the mandate that no Leader of the Opposition will be able to get the status of the Leader of the Opposition alongwith the Cabinet rank.

However, three regional parties – AIADMK, BJD and Trinamool Congress are in consultations amongst themselves to form a bloc in the Lok Sabha and deny the Congress the Opposition space. The three parties would total up to 91 seats – AIADMK with 37 seats, BJD with 20 seats and Trinamool Congress with 34 seats. This may be a possibility as these three parties had earlier thought of forming a non-BJP, non-Congress Federal Front. The Trinamool Congress even insisted on forming a front minus the Left parties.

The Tamilnadu Chief Minister and AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa and the Odisha Chief Minister and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and conveyed that their parties would play the role of “constructive Opposition” and lend issue-based support to the government. Both the chief ministers put up their demands on behalf their states before the prime minister. The West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief, Mamata Banerjee has, however, not yet opened her cards or met the prime minister.

Even if the Trinamool Congress does not go along with AIADMK and BJD, the tally of these two parties will 57- above the 44 figure for the Congress.

However, being comfortable in the Lok Sabha, the BJP-led NDA coalition need to play the game of arithmetic in the Upper House – Rajya Sabha. In the 245-member Rajya Sabha. BJP alone has a strength of 42 and alongwith its allies, TDP, Shiv Sena, Sikkim Democratic Front, Shiromani Akali Dal, Republican Party of India (A), Nagaland Peoples’Front and Mizo National Front the tally totals up to 58.

The Congress has 67 seats in Rajya Sabha and with its allies Bodoland Peoples’ Front, BSP, National Conference, JMM, Kerala Congress (M), Nationalist Congress Party, RJD and Samajwadi Party tally rises to 101. The Janata Dal (U) with its 9 members may go with the Congress in return for the support to its government in Bihar.

The NDA government with its assured strength of 58 will need to scout for support from AIADMK and BJD which have already declared to lend issue-based support. These two parties have a combined strength of 14 in Rajya Sabha. The Trinamool Congress has 12 seats in Rajya Sabha. The NDA government may have to seek support from DMK, INLD, TRS and Independents whose strength totals up to 16. There are 10 nominated members and the government seek support from some of them.

The Finance Bills will not be a problem for the government. The problem will be for other Bills to be passed by the Rajya Sabha. However, at present the 245-member Rajya Sabha has 13 vacancies. The government need to muster support from 117 MPs. In the name of development, it is not unlikely that the government will be getting support of some state parties for the passage of the Bills.

Even if Bills get held up in Rajya Sabha, joint sessions of the Parliament can be convened to clear them.

The game of arithmetic is tricky in politics of parliamentary democracy as practiced in this country. Preferences always do not follow a straight jacket course. If development is the concern of the people, no Opposition party can afford to bloc any development programme of the government.    

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stunned his opponents and baiters by recording a historic win of 282 seats for BJP in the Lok Sabha. He decimated not only the Congress but also regional parties like Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party. But his critics did not stop pointing fingers. They make hue and cry over BJP securing 31 per cent votes. They forget that no government that ruled the country since Independence secured 50 per cent votes or more. Does it mean they lacked peoples’ mandate to rule. Even Rajiv Gandhi who secured historic win for the Congress party in 1984-85 elections with record 404 seats secured below 50 per cent votes.

Situations have changed over time. The number of political parties have increased. In the last general elections 464 political parties contested – 6 national parties, 39 state parties and 419 unrecognized but registered parties. It is natural for votes to be divided. In Indian parliamentary practice, the party or the alliance that secure the majority in the Lok Sabha has the right to govern.

People voted for parties based on their poll manifestos and assurances. This time lowest number of independent candidates got elected – just 3. Out of total 83,41,01,479 registered voters, 55,38,01,801 casted their votes for 8,251 candidates in the fray. This time it was a record turnout of 66.40 per cent voters – 67.09 per cent male voters and 65.30 per cent female voters. The poll body had provided the option to voters to reject candidates by pressing the None Of The Above (NOTA) button. But only about one per cent of voters used this option

With the massive mandate the Modi government has won, it will be unwise for the Opposition to bloc any development programme of the government in Rajya Sabha. However debate and constructive criticism would definitely be in the interests of the nation.

(*The writer is a senior journalist on policy and strategic issues. He is column writer in numer of newspapers and magazines. He was a former Agriculture Editor in The Financial Express. He can be reached at -ashokbsharma@gmail.com His mobile phone no 09810902204)

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Invitation to Apply : FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards 2014

10062014

 

 

 

healthservices@ficci.com

To Me

 

Today at 3:10 PM

–

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Interaction with Members of Parliament – 16th Lok Sabha, Road Map for the New Government

10062014

 

 

 

Rashmi Taneja(PHD Chamber)

To rashmit@phdcci.in

 

Today at 5:00 PM

Dear Sir/Ma’am,

We are pleased to inform you that PHD Chamber is organising a Interaction with the Members of Parliament-16th Lok Sabha: Suggest a  Road Map for Economic Development to achieve 8% growth in the Fiscal 2015 on 11th June 2014 at 6.00 pm at PHD House, New Delhi.The objective would be to submit a suggested roadmap for economic development to the new leadership of the Country  as also provide a platform to the industry representatives for interacting with the newly elected Members of Parliament from Delhi & NCR. Shri Kalraj Mishra, Hon’ble Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises shall be the Chief Guest on the occasion. Mr. Rajnish Goenka, Chairman, Delhi & NCR Committee solicits your kind presence and active participation at the forum, as also joining the felicitation dinner in the honour of elected Members of Parliament. You are requested to kindly confirm your participation by returning the Response Slip given below. Dr. S P Sharma                                                  Dinender Sharma Chief Economist                                               Secretary— States, Retail, Economic Affairs Committee                           e-Commerce & FMCG  CHIEF GUEST Shri Kalraj Mishra Hon’ble Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises

——————– REGISTRATION PROFORMA ——————– Interaction with Members of Parliament – 16th  Lok Sabha Road Map for the New Government 11th June 2014 at 6.00 pm at PHD House, New Delhi Ms. Megha Kaul PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry PHD House, 4/2, Siri Institutional Area, August Kranti Marg, New Delhi 110016 Email : megha@phdcci.in(011-26863801-04, ext. 133) We/ I shall join the Interaction with Members of Parliament – 16th Lok Sabha on 11th June 2014 at 6.00 pm at PHD House, New Delhi . Name : ______________________________________________________________ Company : ­ ___________________________________________________________ Address : ____________________________________________________________ Phone : ____________________________ Fax : ____________________________ E-mail : _____________________________________________________________ PHD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRYPHD House, 4/2 Siri Institutional Area, August Kranti Marg, New Delhi – 110016 Ph: 011-26863801-04, 49545454, 49545400, Fax: 011-26855450, 49545451 E-mail: Phdcci@phdcci.in  Website: www.phdcci.in

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IMD second stage forecasts below normal monsoon for 2014

10062014

 

 

 

 

Surbhi Sharma(PHD Chamber)

To Surbhi Sharma(PHD Chamber)

 

Today at 5:02 PM

Dear All,  

IMD second stage forecasts below normal monsoon for 2014

(More than 70% probability of an El Nino)

With the southwest monsoon likely to be just below normal this year and increase in risks to agriculture from the El Nino phenomenon, the need of the hour is to ensure the supply of food items and measures to tackle the shortfalls which are expected to occur from scanty monsoon.

Earth System Science Organization (ESSO)-India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast South-west monsoon rainfall (June to September 2014) for the country as a whole is likely to be 93% of the long period average (LPA) with a model error of ±4%. The LPA rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1951-2000 is 89 cm. Region wise, the season rainfall is likely to be 85% of LPA over North-West India, 94% of LPA over Central India, 93% of LPA over South Peninsula and 99% of LPA over North-East India all with a model error of ± 8 %.

  Five category probability forecasts for rainfall (June to September 2014) over the country as a whole

Category	Rainfall Range (% of LPA)	Forecast Probability (%)	Climatological Probability (%)
Deficient	< 90	33	16
Below Normal	90 – 96	38	17
Normal	96 -104	26	33
Above Normal	104 -110	3	16
Excess	> 110	0	17

  Source: IMD

IMD indicates chances of El Nino occurring during monsoon are very high (more than 70%). On the other hand conditions in the tropical Indian Ocean are warmer than normal uniformly throughout the basin and therefore ruling out any possibility of positive Indian Ocean Dipole conditions in the tropical Indian Ocean during monsoon season.

Warm regards,

Dr. S P Sharma

Chief Economist

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RELIANCE FOUNDATION AND NBA LAUNCH PROJECT TO INSTALL BASKETBALL HOOPS IN SCHOOLS

10062014

RELIANCE FOUNDATION AND NBA LAUNCH PROJECT TO INSTALL BASKETBALL HOOPS IN SCHOOLS

-Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA Basketball Hoops Infrastructure Project Will Reach More Than 50 Schools in Mumbai-

-Sacramento Kings Point Guard Isaiah Thomas Tips Off Project with Youth Clinic-

MUMBAI, June 10, 2014 – The Reliance Foundation and the National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced a new project to install basketball hoops in more than 50 schools across Mumbai as part of their joint commitment to developing basketball infrastructure in India and to facilitate access to the game.

This marks the next step in the partnership between the two organizations, which launched the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program in 2013 and has taught basketball and the importance of an active and healthy lifestyle to nearly 150,000 youth across two Indian cities.  The program will expand to six cities in 2014.

NBA point guard Isaiah Thomas of the Sacramento Kings, traveling to India on behalf of the NBA to help grow the game, was on hand to help tip off the first stage of the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program’s Basketball Hoops Infrastructure project, which included hosting a youth clinic at the IES school in Dadar.  Isaiah will be part of several basketball initiatives across the city designed to inspire youth to play and to grow the NBA’s fanbase.

“This is my first visit to India, and I am really excited to see the passion for basketball here that I have been hearing about,” said Thomas.  “NBA India and the Reliance Foundation are doing a great job in the development and promotion of the sport here, and I look forward to helping them as much as possible.”

This basic infrastructure will give thousands of youth across Mumbai access to the game year- round, further allowing them to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

“The progress under the Reliance Foundation Jr NBA program in reaching approximately 150,000 youth through in-school and after school programs has been very satisfying.  The Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program is now providing the basic infrastructure needed to play the game of basketball,” said Jagannatha Kumar, CEO, Reliance Foundation.  “By installing these hoops, hundreds of thousands of Indian youth can play the game together and help grow the game throughout India.”

“This is the next step in our partnership with the Reliance Foundation as we continue to grow basketball across India,” said Yannick Colaco, Managing Director, NBA India.  “Since our partnership last year, the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program has integrated basketball into the school level and helps promote a healthy and active lifestyle to Indian youth.”

The Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program has featured more than 5,000 in-school basketball sessions and hosted 11 after-school basketball locations.  The international coaches, appointed by the NBA to implement the program, have trained more than 300 physical education instructors.   Each local coach received a “Basketball in a Bag,” which contained a localized coaching guide, cones, whistles, a stopwatch, posters, and an air pump.  In addition, more than 5,000 basketballs have been provided to participating schools in order to give youth an opportunity to learn and enjoy the game.

About Reliance Foundation

Reliance Foundation (RF) aims to play a catalytic role in addressing the nation’s development challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions with its focus on five core pillars: Rural Transformation, Education, Health, Urban Renewal, and Promotion and protection of India’s Arts, Culture and Heritage. Smt. Nita M. Ambani is the Chairperson of Reliance Foundation and the guiding spirit behind the Foundation’s ambitious vision of becoming the leading vehicle for social development, empowering the underprivileged and infusing social transformation in India. Reliance Foundation has touched the lives of over a million underprivileged across the country, reaching out to over 4,000 villages and various urban locations.

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Alliance Française auditorium to watch a selection of two art videos

10062014

 

Jean-Philippe Bottin

To Jean-Philippe BottinMe

 

 

 Today at 3:16 PM

Dear friends,

 

Who said that everybody those days is only talking about football, soccer, futebol, Fußball, fútbol you name it? 

 

On Friday, June 19, we will gather in Alliance Française auditorium to watch a selection of two art videos about other kinds of movements. To watch them and talk about them.

 

Join us for a wonderful moment in our auditorium from 6.30 onwards.

 

Warmest regards,

 

Jean-Philippe Bottin

Directeur, Alliance Française Delhi

Délégué Général Inde Népal, Fondation Alliance Française

 

Alliance Française de Delhi

presents

Art videos, etc

On the move!

Thursday 19^th July, 6.30pm

M.L Bhartia auditorium – Alliance Française de Delhi

72 Lodi Estate 110014 New Delhi

Free entry. Open to all.

This new screening from the series on video art emphasises the notion of changes choreographed with different point of views.

In the first video,  “Véronique Doisneau’’, Jerôme Bel (dancer and choreographer, forerunner of the non-dance movement) is portraying a ballet dancer from the Opera de Paris, who is to retire soon. Bel gives the dancer a platform to confess about her work, about not being a star but only a “background” dancer, working and suffering from this harsh discipline. An intimate portrait and a premiere within the enclosure of the institution, the Opera de Paris.

In the second video “O seculo” by the Brazilian artist Cinthia Marcelle ( winner of the prestigious Future Generation Art Prize), there are no words, and no storyboard, the empty street ‘s changes are orchestrated through a series of  colourful and original  actions and movements.

Anne Maniglier is a curator and photographer from France.

For many years she worked in newspapers and news agencies and with the photography agency, Magnum.
In 2007 she settled in India, and started to curate and manage emerging Indian artists in between India Europe and the US.