Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. Just as you like to exercise your muscles you need to exercise your brain and flex your mental muscles, said Dr. KK Aggarwal, President, Heart Care Foundation of India.
The benefits of mind games like bridge, chess, musical instruments, solving crossword puzzles, playing brain teasing games, board games or other activities or games that challenge the mind and make you use the mental muscles have been shown in several studies to prevent or delay dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Mental activity should start at the age of 40 and continue for life. Apart from mental activity one should keep the blood pressure within normal limits as abnormal blood pressure readings, either too high or too low, have been associated with an increased risk of dementia. People who have higher levels of social, mental and physical activity have less risk of dementia.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Prime Minister of India, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh and Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Dr. Yukio Hatoyama held the Annual Bilateral Summit in New Delhi on 29 December 2009. They discussed bilateral as well as regional and global issues.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed that India and Japan as partners which share common values and strategic interests, will develop the Strategic and Global Partnership further for the deepening of their bilateral relations as well as peace and prosperity of the region and the world.
The two Prime Ministers reiterated the importance of Annual Summits between them. They also expressed satisfaction at the deepening of the Annual Strategic Dialogue between the Foreign Ministers, as well as other policy dialogues at Ministerial level. They welcomed the desire expressed by the two Defence Ministers in Tokyo in November 2009 to hold Annual Defence Ministerial Meetings to enhance dialogue and exchanges in the defence field.
The two Prime Ministers expressed their satisfaction at the finalization of the Action Plan with specific measures to advance security cooperation based on the Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation between India and Japan issued in October 2008. The two Prime Ministers committed to enhancing the security cooperation between India and Japan according to the Action Plan, and to deepen their discussion through the newly-established framework at the Subcabinet / Senior Official - level 2 plus 2 dialogue, which was endorsed in the Action Plan.
The two Prime Ministers took note of the current status of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) / Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations and instructed their relevant officials to accelerate the negotiations by energetically working towards resolving the remaining issues with a view to concluding a mutually beneficial agreement at the earliest. The two Prime Ministers shared the view that economic relations between India and Japan would develop even further as a result of the conclusion of the EPA/CEPA.
The two Prime Ministers shared the view that Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) should continue to play a significant role in India's poverty reduction, economic and social infrastructure development, tackling environmental issues and human resource development. The Prime Minister of India expressed his appreciation to the Japanese people for their generous role in India's development.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the commencement of India-Japan cooperation on the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) Project with the signing of the Exchange of Notes for the Engineering Services Loan for the first phase (Rewari - Vadodara sector) in October 2009 in New Delhi, and reaffirmed their commitment to the early realization of the entire Western corridor utilizing Japan’s Special Terms for Economic Partnership (STEP) scheme, which is expected to contribute to the further enhancement of India-Japan economic relations. Both sides also welcomed the commencement of the preliminary survey for the second phase, and will make utmost efforts for early completion of both phases of the corridor in a parallel manner. The two leaders will also work together for conclusion of the agreement for the Main Loan for the first phase by March 2010 and for commencement of the assistance for the second phase at the earliest in 2010. Both sides will strive for early finalization of a funding and implementation schedule for the whole Western Corridor.
The two Prime Ministers expressed their satisfaction with the steady development of the collaboration in the establishment of Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IITH) and reiterated their commitment to collaborate through various contributions from Japan including through Official Development Assistance. They noted with satisfaction that the Japanese side has established the IITH Consortium consisting of government, academia and industry
The two Prime Ministers shared the view that the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) Project is moving forward from the planning stage to the implementation stage and reaffirmed their resolve to realize the DMIC Project, which plays an important role in promoting investment by Japanese companies, and has a potential to facilitate the development of the entire Asian region. In this regard, they expressed their satisfaction with the joint establishment of the Project Development Fund (PDF) with support of Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), which is jointly initiated by India and Japan. They welcomed substantive progress on DMIC Project including the completion of the Perspective plan and advancement of Early Bird Projects. The two Prime Ministers took note of the Memorandum of Understanding between DMICDC and JETRO on “Smart Communities and Eco-friendly Townships.”
The two leaders welcomed the decision to establish a JETRO Chennai office which would accelerate further investment by small and medium-sized Japanese enterprises to India.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the enhanced bilateral cooperation on energy under the India-Japan Ministerial-level Energy Dialogue, particularly in energy efficiency and conservation sectors as well as the coal and power sectors. The two Prime Ministers stressed the need for accelerating bilateral cooperation in these vital areas and expressed strong expectations for the progress to be achieved in the next Ministerial-level Energy Dialogue in New Delhi. The two Prime Ministers shared the view that nuclear energy can play an important role as a safe, sustainable and non-polluting source of energy in meeting the rising global energy demands. They also noted that under the Energy Dialogue the Energy Ministers will exchange views and information on their respective nuclear energy policies.
The two Prime Ministers also recognized the importance of promoting cooperation between the two countries' industries in order to expand bilateral energy cooperation on a commercial basis. In this regard, they welcomed progress achieved under the India-Japan Energy Forum held by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) of India and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) of Japan.
Recognizing the role of technology cooperation in the bilateral partnership, the two Prime Ministers took note of the progress made by the bilateral consultative mechanism on high technology trade, and decided to step up efforts to facilitate such trade by addressing respective concerns, including export controls.
The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction on the achievements made at the third meeting of the India-Japan Joint Working Group on Urban Development in June 2009 and reaffirmed their intention to continue concrete cooperative efforts in the field of Urban Development based on this outcome.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the launch of India-Japan ICT Seminar and shared the view that they will enhance cooperation in the field of Information and Communication Technology through bilateral consultations including at the ministerial level.
The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the waiver of visa requirements for holders of Diplomatic Passports began on 1 January, 2008. They expressed hope that the number of Japanese tourists visiting India will increase as a result of the recent decision by the Government of India to introduce a visa on arrival scheme for tourists from five countries including Japan on an experimental basis. In order to facilitate two-way travel, they directed the concerned authorities to accelerate the consultation on simplification of visa procedures and to complete it in a year.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the renewed international attention to and confirmed their commitment to the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Hatoyama stressed the importance of bringing into force the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) at an early date. Prime Minister Singh reiterated India’s commitment to a unilateral and voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing. The two Prime Ministers supported the immediate commencement of negotiations in the Conference on Disarmament and an early conclusion of a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT). They also supported the strengthening of international cooperation with a view to addressing the challenges of nuclear terrorism and clandestine proliferation.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the Copenhagen Accord. They reaffirmed their determination to work closely together in the negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) towards an Agreed Outcome, to be adopted at the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties. Prime Minister Singh welcomed the announcement of the “Hatoyama Initiative”.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their resolve to realize a comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) Security Council, especially its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories. They welcomed the progress so far achieved in the intergovernmental negotiations in the UN General Assembly, in which an expansion in both categories has commanded the most support from Member States. The Prime Ministers decided to accelerate their efforts, in close cooperation with the G4 and other like-minded countries, with a view to achieving a meaningful result during the 64th Session of the General Assembly, so as to make the Security Council more representative, credible and effective for meeting the challenges of the new century.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed that an ambitious and balanced conclusion of the WTO Doha Round in 2010 will play an important role in responding to the global economic crisis and committed to working together towards this end.
The two Prime Ministers valued the G-20 as the premier forum for our international economic cooperation and commended its timely and strong policy response in the crisis. They welcomed the Framework for Strong, Sustainable and Balanced Growth launched at Pittsburgh and looked forward to its implementation. They reiterated the importance of the comprehensive package of regulatory measures to prevent recurrence of the crisis. Both sides welcomed the Pittsburgh Summit's focus to address reforms of the international financial institutions (IFIs) in order to improve their credibility, governance and effectiveness, and looked forward to its implementation within the agreed timelines. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to eschewing protectionism in all its forms covering trade in goods and services as well as investment and financial flows. In a spirit of friendship and cooperation, they looked forward to further working closely together, as well as with others.
The two Prime Ministers reiterated the condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever and for whatever purpose. They reaffirmed the importance both countries attach to counter-terrorism cooperation in the United Nations, and affirmed to continue working towards the finalization of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. Prime Minister Hatoyama expressed strong condemnation of the terror attacks in Mumbai last year. The two Prime Ministers emphasized the utmost importance of bringing the perpetrators of the terrorist attack to justice. Japan expressed its support for India’s efforts to become a member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). At the bilateral level, they underlined their determination to strengthen co-operation through the Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their support for the East Asia Summit as an open, inclusive, transparent and forward looking forum. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the decision of the EAS Economic Ministers to task the Senior Economic Officials to discuss and consider the recommendations in the Phase I and II reports on Comprehensive Economic Partnership in East Asia (CEPEA). The two Prime Ministers welcomed the efforts by Economic Research Institute of ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) for promoting economic growth in East Asia, focusing on such areas as facilitating sub-regional development, expanding the middle class and stimulating consumer market, and for working with the ADB and the ASEAN Secretariat to accelerate the completion of a “Comprehensive Asian Development Plan” in order to enhance the connectivity of the region.
The two Prime Ministers re-affirmed their commitment to work together in the framework of regional cooperation. Prime Minister Singh noted with appreciation Prime Minister Hatoyama’s initiative for an East Asian community.
Prime Minister Hatoyama welcomed India’s initiative in the East Asia Summit process to establish the Nalanda University as a non-State, non-profit, secular and self-governing international institution with a continental focus to enable students from all countries of Asia to acquire liberal and human education. They acknowledged that this initiative will strengthen the cultural and civilizational bonds between the countries of Asia.
Prime Minister Hatoyama expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome by Prime Minister Singh. Prime Minister Hatoyama extended his invitation to Prime Minister Singh for their next Annual Bilateral Summit in Japan next year at a mutually convenient date to be decided through diplomatic channels. Prime Minister Singh accepted the invitation with pleasure.
Star News Agency
The food processing sector in India is geared to meet the international standards and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 has been enacted which consolidates the laws relating to food and to establish the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India for laying down science based standards for articles of food and to regulate their manufacture, storage, distribution, safe and import, to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption and the matter connected therewith or incidental thereto. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is having the mandate to develop standards and also to harmonise the same with International Standards consistent with food hygiene and food safety requirement and to the conditions of India’s food industry. Besides, Ministry of Food Processing Industries has the scheme for total quality management involving implementation of HACCP/ISO 22000/GHP (Good Hygiene Practices) and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) which is aimed at motivating the food processing industries for adoption of food safety and quality assurance mechanisms such as TQM including ISO 14000, ISO 22000, HACCP, GMP, GHP and preparing them to face global competition in post WTO regime . The meat industry is the collective of diverse businesses that together supply much of the food energy consumed by the world population. Food processing industry is widely recognized as a 'sunrise industry' having huge potential for uplifting agricultural economy, creation of large scale processed food manufacturing and food chain facilities, and the resultant generation of employment and export earnings. India has enormous growth potential from its current status of being the world's second largest food producer to be the world's number one producer.
Challenges and Gaps in Indian Meat Industry
Though fast growing, yet the level of processing in the meat industry is still lower as compared to other countries. The key challenges include organization of meat sector in terms of meeting global quality standards, regulatory bottlenecks and higher no. of unorganized market players. Establishing Disease-Free Zones for rearing animals is another area of concern.
Growth Potential/ Opportunities
India is blessed with rich livestock wealth and recognized as one of the most important livestock rearing country in the world with the largest livestock population of 449 million. Animal husbandry has been an integral part of rural livelihood and buffalo as a triple purpose animal (Milk, Meat & Draught) has imbibed well in the Indian rural hinterland. As per the last census held, the country has about 200 million cattle, 79 million buffaloes, 46 million sheep, 110 million goats and 10 million pigs. Indian Meat Sector with such vast raw material base, increasing domestic demand and high potential of export is expected to grow significantly. Despite this, India has not been able to position itself as a major player in global trade for a variety of reasons including lack of appropriate support infrastructure for processing, vegetarianism, religious reservations, regional preferences and preference for fresh and hot meat etc.
Poultry meat is the fastest growing segment in domestic market with a CAGR of about 15 percent. However, Buffalo meat production has been growing at a relatively less rate at a CAGR of about 5 percent. The current production levels is estimated at about 1.9 Million tones of which about 21 percent is exported to counties like Malaysia, Egypt and in Middle east region. Mutton and lamb is a smaller segment where demand has been outstripping supply, which also explains their higher retail prices in Indian domestic market. Only 24% is exported. Meat is primarily exported to the Philippines, Malaysia, West Asian countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman etc., African and CIS countries.
The Way Ahead
After the challenges and gaps are known, there is the time to mend them and tackle the issues. There needs to be an integrated view of development of meat sector workers. Efforts and support by government to Indian players to meet global quality standards and hygienic and scientific slaughtering in addition to the optimum utilization of by products is very much essential.
In this regard, in order to synergize the energies and efforts of every one related to the growth and development of meat and poultry processing in the country, the Ministry of Food processing Industries had formed a National Meat and Poultry Processing Board (NMPPB) as an autonomous body under the societies act and is functioning under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. The NMPPB aims at boosting the growth of the sector for the benefit of the producers and processors. The Board will provide help to the industry in setting up or modernization of abattoirs by providing technical consultancy for the production of wholesome meat and meat products, value added meat food products and utilization of slaughterhouse by products.
Immediate needs of the sector are to take advantage of liberalized world trade to benefit the Indian meat industry by harmonization of standards, giving incentives to farmer for quality livestock production and to adopt stringent quality control measures, to develop long term strategies for export, popularize and develop traditional products technology, and regularly monitoring for chemical residues and microbial quality and produce international standard meat products.
The Board plans for modernization of Abattoirs in next five years by standardizing size, technologies, equipments, cost etc. / bench marking of Abattoirs, establishing a full-fledged self financing Consultancy Division and providing consultancy to 10 large Abattoirs and 10 class ‘B’ city Abattoirs to be set up. Consultancy will be provided for setting up 50 large and 110 small Abattoirs.
The Board will cater to the backward linkages- disease free zone/ Traceability etc by organizing meetings with the Department of Animal Husbandry regarding. One National Lab would be established by July 2010 and five Labs by July 2012 in alignment of domestic standards with international standards.
I will fly like a bird to b where u are.
I have put you on a pedestal
And made u a million feet tall.
‘Each time u hold ur hands
Hold them tight,
Needn’t say what that just meant!’
There’s so much I want to say
Am trying phrases, flowery quotes
But feel there’s nothing better than
Those simple three words.
Heaven on Earth I wasn’t aware of
Till I actually found you.
Little secrets I decided
To unfold with you.
Never saw u, never met u,
Yet you meant so much to me.
My life has a meaning now
And it is all because of you.
I hold you in my prayers each day
Telling lil angels to keep a watch on you.
I am human I know,
At times I cud go wrong.
But you are on a pedestal now
So, u ‘stay’ with me all along.
- Bindu Chopra
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has greeted the nation on the joyous occasion of Christmas.
In a message, Dr. Singh said that the festival is a celebration of peace, love and hope and a time to rejoice in the company of family and friends. The spirit of Christmas strengthens the values of brotherhood, tolerance and caring. May the spirit of Christmas be with all our countrymen throughout the New Year, the Prime Minister added.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. Ten percent of the heart attacks in the emergency room are over diagnosed. Minutes matter with these patients and doctors have to act quickly in this setting. This 10% false positive rate is acceptable. This was stated by Dr K K Aggarwal, President, Heart Care Foundation of India.
Heart attacks which are common near Xmas can also be missed as the ECG can be normal in the first 6 hours. Every effort should be taken to reduce the number of false positive or false negative diagnoses of heart attack, said Dr K K Aggarwal quoting a study published in the issue of the Journal of the Medical Association.
In the study Henry and group studied the medical records of 1,345 people treated for suspected heart attacks in a regional system between 2003 and 2006, looking at emergency room decisions.
All the patients were suspected of having a STEMI heart attack, characterised by a specific electrocardiogram pattern. It turned out that 187 of them (14%) did not have obvious blockage of a coronary artery, with (11%) having negative results on cardiac biomarker tests.
There was a significant difference in survival with 4.6% 30-day death rate for those with a blocked artery and 2.7% for those without blockage. During Xmas most senior doctors maybe on vacation making the situation further bad for the common man.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Jagriti art initiative which is well known for conducting various exhibitions and parleys within India and abroad organized an exhibition Metaphoric Shifts and New Imagery showcasing Paintings and Sculptures of around 60 artists at Group Show at Lalit Kala Academy. The ‘Guests of Honour’ at the exhibition were actor & Oscar Award winner Mr Irrfan Khan and Ambasssador of Arab Republic of Egypt to India, Dr. Mohamed Higazy and Secretary of Lalit Kala Academy, Dr. Sudhakar Sharma. A share from all the sales of the corpus will be donated for charitable purposes to Literacy India, for their various philanthropic activities.
On this Occasion Director of Jagriti Art Mr. Gaurang Jalan said that Jagriti Art is an awareness initiative showcasing quality art from the house of GMB Films (P) Ltd. and is a reliable source of contemporary and modern Indian Art providing extensive range of Art for display, consultancy and sale. “Art with a Heart has been our sublime motto and we have been actively involved in various community service initiatives - be it concern for the environment, tribals, establishment of scholarship for meritorious students, care for dementia and the aged, protection and welfare of the women and child or eradication of polio through Rotary - we have come forward and contributed to the best of our ability”, he further added. Jagriti Art conducts regular workshops, exhibitions, cultural exchange programmes and parleys to provide a proactive platform for established as well as emerging artists.
While appreciating this effort of Jagriti art Initiative, Professor. Sandeep Marwah one of the 'guest of honours' in the exhibiton said that such endeavors not only have artistic and entertainment value but they help in the development of the society at the same time. Paintings of renowned and well known artists such as M.F Hussain, Satish Gujral, Bijon Chaudhary, Jayshree Chakraborty, Prosenjit Sengupta, Bikash Bhattacharya were included in the exhibition.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The introductory meeting of the Expert Committee for up gradation of National Film Awards (NFA) was held in New Delhi today. The Committee members unanimously selected Sh. Shyam Benegal the Chairman of this expert Committee. It was also decided that the Committee would submit its recommendations latest by 15th March 2010 to be able to make qualitative changes for NFA 2009.
Welcoming the eminent ten members of the Committee present for the meeting today, the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Smt Ambika Soni said that the Ministry wishes to be benefitted by the recommendations of the Committee so that the revamped National Film Awards 2009 can be presented for the public at large. The Minister also desired that a time schedule be laid out so that National Film Awards become an annual fixture in the year’s calendar and every effort be made to ensure that by following proper, democratic, transparent procedure litigation is minimised if not completely avoided so as not to derail the schedule as happened in recent past.
Kick-starting the discussions, the Members acknowledged that National Film Awards carry a dignity and importance not rivalled by any other Awards in the industry purely because National Film Awards give due recognition to the pan-Indian cinema in the country. However the Members suggested that keeping in view the technological advancements more categories in the Awards recognising newer professional fields, newer formats such as digital format and newer media should be recognised. The Members were also of the view that a two tier jury – regional and then national level jury should be appointed to do justice to the language nuances/regional significance. The Members also suggested that in keeping with the earlier recommendations of the Satyajit Ray Committee and Karanth Committee reports, a ‘Chalchitra Academy’ should be established. Increase in the cash reward of the Awards and rationalizing the Censor procedures were also discussed.
Among those who attended the meeting today included S/Sh. Shyam Benegal, Ashok Vishwanathan, Jahnu Baruah, Mohan Agashe, Nagesh Kuknoor, Rajiv Mehrotra, Shaji Karun, Vishal Bhardwaj along with Ms. Sai Paranjapye and Smt. Sharmila Tagore. Senior officials of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Directorate of Film Festivals were also present.
This Committee shall make recommendations regarding up gradation of National Film Awards for Feature, Non-Feature and Best writing on Cinema and the Dada Saheb Phalke Award and the resultant changes to be made in the Regulations thereto.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is undertaking a major capacity building exercise to deal with the present and future challenges facing the agriculture sector in the country.
Addressing the 81st Annual General Meeting of ICAR, Shri Sharad Pawar, Minister of Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said here today that these efforts have resulted in filing of over 50 patents applications from 13 ICAR institutes during the year. Two patents applications have entered into National phase in USA, France and Japan. In an effort to enhance farmers’ capacity and skills, over 40,000 training programmes were organized benefitting 11.27 lakh farmers and farm women. Similarly, about 13,000 skill-oriented training programmes were organized for 3.10 lakh rural youths.
The Minister informed that in order to infuse new blood in research efforts, over 430 scientists are being recruited at the entry level. In an effort to build capacity in high-end research such as molecular breeding, genomics and transgenics, bioremediation, nanotechnology, diagnostics etc. scientists from ICAR institutes and teachers from State Agricultural Universities were trained in best of the laboratories of the world.
Shri Pawar said, quality human resource being a key input in all aspects of agriculture, ICAR is implementing a comprehensive accreditation system to ensure quality of education, strengthening of infrastructure and faculty improvement in State Agricultural Universities. Accreditation was granted to five SAUs during the year, taking the total to 33. Introduction of international fellowships during the year was a major milestone in gloabalizing higher agricultural education.
The Minister further stated that the ICAR institutes and State Agricultural Universities are being connected to National Knowledge Network through an electronic digital broadband to encourage sharing of resources for collaborative research. To promote ICT-driven technology and information dissemination system for effective communication, ICAR contemplates to share its knowledge resources on a common platform in open-access mode for the benefit of stakeholders.
Speaking about the achievements of ICAR, the Minister said, ICAR has taken several notable steps and initiatives for providing a scientific and technology-driven thrust to agricultural development. Crop improvement programmes resulted in release or identification of 131 varieties of major food crops for different agro-climatic regions of the country, besides a few varieties in plantation and horticultural crops. Nearly 7000 tonnes of breeder seed of centrally released field crop varieties were produced for distribution among farmers. A drought-tolerant horsegram mutant was released for the north zone in tribal dominated Eastern Ghats of Orissa. Gene sources for resistance to Ug99 rust with new genes have been located. ICAR has also developed cost effective amelioration technologies for water logged, salt affected and acid soils. In order to address the issues of impact of climate change on agriculture, a National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management has been established. Further, two major institutions, the National Institute on Biotic Stress Management and Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology are in the process of establishment.
The Minister of State for Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Prof. K.V. Thomas in his address emphasized the need for providing nutritious food to the growing young population in the country. He said, as India enters the phase of stabilized population by 2050, with a huge young and sizable moderately affluent population, the demand for protein foods is going to grow exponentially. Already production pressure and urban affluence is pushing prices up. If production of vegetables, pulses, milk, meat and staples do not catch up with the needs of a young and successful population, price pressure will hurt the poor, and the low income group. With increasing numbers of rural population leaving sustenance agriculture, more has to be provided with less. Therefore, high degree of economy has to be ushered in the input regime and higher yields have to be sourced from static or decreasing catchments.
DG ICAR, and Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education, Dr. Mangala Rai gave details of achievements earned by the ICAR during the year. The meeting was attended by agricultural scientists, heads of ICAR institutes, central and state agricultural universities.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. An agreement on extensive programme on Khadi Reforms has been signed here today between Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Asian Development Bank and Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
Asian Development Bank will make available a loan of US$ 150million to the Government in four tranches which will be equivalent to approximately Rs. 717 crore under the existing rate of one US$= Rs.47.79. This amount will be utilized for the development of 300 identified khadi institutions. The development/reforms will be taken up in 50 khadi institutions in the first phase, identified on the basis of pre-decided selection criteria. The Reforms will be taken up in the remaining 250 khadi institutions thereafter. It is estimated that more than 60,000 artisans will be directly benefited by this Reform Programme and “Khadi Mark” and setting up of “Marketing Organisation” will help in improvement in the sales of khadi products.
An important aspect of the Khadi Reform Programme relates to giving freedom to the khadi institutions to sell their products at market determined prices as against the “cost chart regime” as it exists today.
After Shri Dinsha Patel, Minister of State (Independent Charge) took over in the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, the rebate scheme was extended for another year and now an improved and more effective scheme namely Market Development Assistance (MDA) has been formulated which will ensure improvement in the existing structure of the khadi institutions and sharing of the financial benefits arising out of better marketing with the artisans and weavers.
Khadi Reform Programme is one of the various initiatives taken by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) for reforms in the agro rural sector industries sector This Reform Programme includes the empowerment and enhancement of earning of spinners and weavers, enhanced participation of spinners and weavers in the management of the khadi institutions, address the problems faced by khadi institutions on capital inadequacy, improvement in marketing, skill development and training of artisans, improvement in the quality of raw material, better production of sliver/roving through Public Private Partnership(PPP) etc.
The agreement on extensive programme on Khadi Reforms was signed in the presence of Senior Officials of Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Asian Development Bank and KVIC.
Mandeep Puri
If we go by the news, the so called actors in Bollywood may be charging imaginary numbers of bucks and making a lot of Moolah, but there are superstars who despite of their sky high status in the Indian Film Industry, still prefer decent work over just making money. In a recent example, the veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, who has just finished film “Bolo Raam”, refused to take any fee for the film, because he thought it would be an injustice with the script and the role if any commercial angle was brought in to limelight. Thus, Naseer did not charge a penny from the Director, Rakesh Chaturvedi “Om” or the Producer Goldy Bhutani of Shree Keshav Films and left everyone stunned by refusing his price for the film which releases on 31st of December, 2009.
Another reason of Naseer rejecting any money for this film is the nostalgia of working with Padmini Kohlapure after a gap of 2 and a half long decade. The duo was last seen together in “Woh Saat Din” in 1983, and when Naseer was told that Padmini will be cast in this film, Naseer went extremely nostalgic and immediately agreed for the film as he had already been convinced with the strength of the script.
“I believe that scripts like Bolo Raam are very rare and they require a lot from an actor. I am sure that if I would have charged any money for the film, I won’t ever be able to deliver my best and it would have been an in-justification with the film. I am glad that there were no monetary elements involved and which gives me an opportunity to say that I did this film from & for my heart. Yes it is obvious that Padmini’s presence in the film is another reason, which led me away to talk about any financials, coz we had come together on screen after a span of 26 long years.” This is what Naseer says about such a kind gesture that he has shown in this time of commercialization of cinema.
Responding to this big favor by Naseer, Rakesh Chaturvedi “Om”, the director of the film adds- “I think Naseer Ji is a great personality on and as well off-screen. He is a great actor and a great human being as well. I have been doing theatre with him for years now and in all these years, I always kept telling him that I would love to direct him in a film. It is one random day when I narrated the script of Bolo Raam to him. He was so moved with the script that he said he was doing my film and to relieve me of any problem, he said he was doing it for free. I can’t say how obliged I felt. I thank him from the bottom of my heart and can proudly say that he is the finest actor India has ever produced. I am sure people will love his performance in Bolo Raam too.”
Bolo Raam is the story of a boy Raam Kaushik (Rishi Bhutani). It is a fast-paced and gripping thriller murder mystery. Raam is charged with the murder of his mother Archana (Padmini Kohlapure). On the other hand, Raam falls in to a state of shock, brief psychotic disorder, after his mother’s death and become silent, refusing to talk or react in any manner. The story unfolds as the investigating officer, Indrajeet Singh Rathi (Om Puri), much to his frustration is puzzled and unable to make Raam speak. He consults a Psychiatrist Dr. N.S Negi (Naseeruddin Shah) to determine Raam’s state of mind and the reason for his slience. The movie progresses as he interrogates various personalities for the case, questioning each and every person possibly connected to Archana and Raam. Every possible motive that Raam might have for murdering his mother is explored. Furthermore, Raam’s neighbours Sub Inspector Sajid Khan (Govind Namdev) his daughter, Juhi (Disha Pandey) and son, Sameer (Krishan Khatra) are summoned by Rathi for Interrogation. Will his silence solve the puzzle? This is Bolo Raam…..
Bolo Raam also marks debut of a young lad Rishi Bhutani, who plays Raam in the film and around whom the whole story revolves. The film also casts Rajpal Yadav, Govind Namdev and Manoj Pahwa in pivotal roles.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. A visiting Bangladeshi delegation led by its Land Minister Shri Md. Rezaul Karim Hira called on the Union Minister of State for Rural Development Shri Sisir Adhikari here today. The two leaders shared ideas of land records management in the delegation level meeting. In his opening remarks, the Union Minister of State , Shri Sisir Adhikari highlighted the purpose of modernisation of land record system in India specially the National Land Record Modernisation Program (NLRMP). The citizen focus of the program and its role as a comprehensive tool for supporting and planning, developmental, regulatory and dissemination management activity was also highlighted. The visiting delegation was informed that the ushering the system of conclusion titles is the ultimate goal of the program. Additional Secretary in the Deptt. of Land Resources, Shri Chinmoy Basu apprised the visiting delegation about the salient features and innovations under National Land Record Management Program.
The visiting Bangladesh Minister Shri Md. Rezaul Karim Hira lauded India’s role in the freedom movement and subsequent development of Bangladesh. He along with his delegation sought inputs from India in Land Record Management. The delegation evinced keen interest in the process of digitisation of land records and especially the computerisation. The Bangladesh delegation would be visiting West Bengal and Karnataka to learn from India’s experience in the National Land Record Management Program.
The Bangladeshi delegation comprised of State Minister in the Ministry of Land, advocate Mostafizur Rahman; Member of Parliament and Chairman, Standing Committee on Ministry of Land, Shri S.K.M. Mozammel Huq; Member of Parliament and Member, Standing Committee on Ministry of Land Resources, Shri Benjir Ahmed; Chairman, Land Reforms Board Shri Abdur Razzaque; Joint Secretary, Ministry of Land, Shri Nikhil Ranjan Mondal and Minister, Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, Shri Ruhul Alam Siddique.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. People with type 2 diabetes should commit to a daily walk to lower the risk of heart disease said Dr. KK Aggarwal, President, Heart Care Foundation of India.
In a study of 102 adults with type 2 diabetes, Japanese researchers have shown that those who stick to a daily walking regimen for 17 months have a lower risk of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke than those who stop exercising.
The study participants, who ranged in age from 35 to 75, were instructed to take a 20 to 30-minute walk every day. Among the 64 who managed to achieve this, just 1 - 2 percent suffered a stroke and none developed heart disease during the 17-month study. In contrast, of the 38 participants who failed to stick to their exercise prescription, 7-18 percent developed heart disease or had a stroke.
The findings show that even simple at-home exercises may cut the cardiovascular risks associated with type 2 diabetes. Heart disease and stroke are among the long-term complications of type 2 diabetes.
Better blood sugar control, may help explain why regular exercisers in this study had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
Mandeep Puri
ICFPA (International Children’s Festival of Performing Arts) celebrated its 10th anniversary of spreading peace and unity through the medium of performing arts at the National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi. Under the theme ‘I can. I will.’ ICFPA will continue its journey as Asia’s biggest festival of performing arts for children. Mr. Kapil Sibal, The Human Resource Development Minister, Govt. of India, along with film maker Mr. Madhur Bhandarkar raised the curtain at the opening ceremony of ICFPA 2009. Tennis ace Mr. Mahesh Bhupati was also a part of the festival’s decade celebration. This four day festival will conclude on 19th Dec, 2009.
The opening ceremony turned out to be a magnificent event, encapsulating a vivid range of performances and presentations. The children of the world transcended all physical and cultural barriers to come together in one common spirit of humanity, love and fraternity. People of Delhi welcomed the festival and over 20,000 viewers thronged to fill all the four venues which were-National Bal Bhavan, Little Theatre Group, Pearey Lal Bhavan and Shri Ram Centre. The grand gala was a compilation of 250 productions from different countries and cultures. Trainers from selected nations worked together with the Indian children to facilitate the cultural exchange making it a ‘festival for the children of the world’.
“This unique initiative is aiming at bringing children from different parts of the world under one roof and makes them perform on a single platform. Over the years the festival is growing with the expectations and of our participants and I am happy that it is entering into its 10th successful year. I hope children of Delhi will enjoy the performances and learn various cultures”, noted Managing Director, Madam Grace Pinto.
To mark the occasion, an Opening Parade was carried out from Jantar Mantar to National Bal Bhavan in the morning with all the national and international participants at the festival. The children of the world walked hand in hand, with flags of all the nations flying high. These young global ambassadors represented the global mission of creating a world without violence, hatred and war as they sang together shouting slogans for a Peaceful World. It was a colorful extravaganza as circus jugglers, acrobats and scores of other entertainers joined the cosmopolitan march.
At another event at National Bal Bhavan, children from all across the globe participated in one of the most exciting event witnessed ever. The 10th International Children’s Festival of Performing Arts geared up to run the buses of World Peace. To give world peace more prominence, the children were invited to paint the “Bus OF World Peace” with their emotions in the form of peace messages. It was an overwhelming site to watch children from various countries play with colors and paint the replica of peace together. Once painted, these buses carrying expressions of peace and bonding will parade the streets of the capital to display world unity and peace.
As the vein of the performing arts, ICFPA draws most of the attention of global theatre circle. The festival is hosted by Ryan Foundation, which was founded by Chairman Dr. Augustine F. Pinto and Managing Director, Madam Grace Pinto, who with their farsighted vision are relentlessly working to create unparalleled standards of education across the globe. ICFPA has gone through a brilliant journey of 9 years and in its 10th edition, it has been suffused with the creativity of Indian and International artists alike. Presented by Ryan Foundation in association with National Bal Bhavan and Indian Council for Cultural Relations, this festival will host over 5000 children from countries like Bangladesh, Germany, Iran, Israel, India, Latvia, Nigeria, Nepal, Pakistan, Romania, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Zambia, Finland, Indonesia, Italy, Switzerland, Thailand among other countries.
Shemaroo Entertainment releases the animation film ‘Ravana’ on VCDs. Directed by Ashtam, this film is from the Echo Entertainment banner and has directly come out on home video.The film Ravana is about the popular epic Ramayana as seen from the eyes of Ravana. While the music has been given by Debijit, singers Dilip Naik, Rupali and John have lent their voices to the songs.
In the movie Dasahanan wants to be a king in Swarg, Dharti and Patal. He also want to everybody come worships him as a God, Man & Danav. Dashanan very intelligent, brave and also Devotee of Lord Shiva. After returning to Ayodhya from Mithila with his new bride Sita, Ram is banished to the forest for fourteen years by his stepmother so his half-brother can rule the kingdom. During their forest exile, Ram's wife is abducted by demon King of Lanka Ravan. The search then commences for Sitaji with Hanumanji leaping across the seas to Lanka, killing Ravan's son, Akshaye, and passing on Ramji's message to Sitaji, who is being held in the Ashok Vatica and refuses to give in to Ravan's demands as she is fully aware that he is cursed and will be torn in seven pieces if he dares to molest any woman against her wish. After being captured by Ravan's son, Meghnath, Hanuman does escape, but not before setting Lanka afire with his tail. Ramji, along with an army of apes and bears, descends upon Lanka, kills Ravan's brother, Khumbakaran; while Hanumanji resurrects Lakshman, who was fatally wounded by Meghnath. With the help of his brother Lakshman and an army of monkeys, Ram declares war on Lanka to win back his bride.
Shemaroo Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. is an integrated Film Production, Post Production, Distribution and Animation player. With an excellent library of Hindi films, it has penetrated into the television content syndication scene. It also has state-of-the-art studio facilities and has successfully leveraged emerging technologies like the Broadband, Internet, IPTV and Mobile among others. The Home Video catalogue includes more than 1000 titles, several mega-hit films and some of the best names in the industry like Raj Kapoor (RK Films), Subhash Ghai, Bimal Roy, B.R. Chopra, Hrishikesh Mukherji and Dev Anand among others. Whether it is - Romance, Comedy, Drama, Suspense or Classics - we have the best in every genre. We also have a full-fledged anti-piracy team that spearheads raids and enforces the laws against piracy.
Apart from this, Shemaroo has taken classic Bollywood Films across the seas and around the globe to Hindi Film fans all over the world. Shemaroo is also a joint venture partner with Sony Pictures, USA, for Sony Entertainment Television. Shemaroo’s A&R Artiste & Repertoire Division churns out audio-video musical albums. These songs are beautifully compiled on VCDs & DVDs, including premium packs. Over years this song compilation catalogue has grown richer with nostalgic and current tracks based on singers, legends, artistes and themes among others.
Shemaroo’s Foreign Films Business has some excellent international titles to its credit including major award winners. Some films for which we have the rights are ‘World’s Fastest Indian’; ‘Beyond the Sea’; ‘The Graduate’; ‘Ran’ and ‘Samsara’ among many others.Shemaroo has Alternative Content in genres ranging through edutainment films for children, television content, sports and animation among others.Shemaroo has also made a foray into film-making with its Films Division. The critically acclaimed award-winning ‘Omkara’ – presented by Shemaroo Entertainment - was a massive success and ‘Manorama Six Feet Under’ of Shemaroo’s stable too won many accolades.
Shemaroo Animation is creating animation content for Indian as well as International markets, with an Indian flavoured narrative with animated films like ‘Bal Ganesh’ and ‘Ghatothkach – Master of Magic’. This year, Bal Ganesh bagged the prestigious Lil’Star Awards in the categories of ‘Best Animation Film’ and ‘Best Animated Character’, presented by Red Chillies Entertainment.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. China disputes the International Boundary between India and China. There is no commonly delineated Line of Actual Control (LAC) between the two countries. From time to time, on account of differences in the perception of the LAC, situations have arisen on the ground that could have been avoided if we had a common perception of the LAC. Since 1993, the two Governments have agreed to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas pending a final settlement of the Boundary Question. Prime Ministers of India and China reiterated this understanding during their meeting in Thailand in October, 2009.
This information was given by Shri S.M.Krishna, Union Minister for External Affairs in reply to a question by Shri Lalit Kishore Chaturvedi & Dr. Gyan Prakash Pilania in Rajya Sabha Today.
He said that Government is aware that China is developing the infrastructure in the border regions opposite India in Tibet Autonomous Region. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s interests and takes all necessary measures to protect them. India and China have established a Strategic and Cooperative Partnership. There are regular political contacts between the leaders of the two countries. The functional cooperation between the two countries is expanding in all areas. Both sides have agreed that they are committed to resolving outstanding differences, including on the Boundary Question, through peaceful negotiations, while ensuring that such differences are not allowed to affect the positive development of bilateral relations.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. In the last three years, the State Government of Gujarat has informed the Ministry on several occasions of the capture of Indian fishermen and their fishing boats by Pakistani authorities. Such communications also contain requests to expedite the release of Indian fishermen and their boats from Pakistani custody. In addition, a number of Members of Parliament from Gujarat, and Members of Legislative Assembly of Gujarat have also written to the Ministry in this regard in the last three years.
This information was given by Shri S.M.Krishna, Union Minister of External Affairs in reply to a question by Shri Vitthalbhai Hansrajbhai Radadiya & Shri Mansukh Bhai D.Vasava in Lok Sabha Today. He said that Government of India has been making persistent efforts for the release of Indian fishermen and their boats from Pakistan. An India-Pakistan Judicial Committee on Prisoners was formed on 26 February 2008. The Committee made recommendations to the two Governments, which inter alia,included immediate release of and consular access to fishermen, and exchange of a consolidated list of nationals in each other’s jails. The Committee visited jails in Pakistan in June 2008 and jails in India in August 2008. It also held its meetings during these visits. In its last meeting held in India in August 2008, the Committee again recommended, inter alia, immediate release and repatriation of all prisoners to their respective countries who had completed their sentences and whose nationality had been confirmed. Pakistan released 34 Indian fishermen in August 2008, and another 99 fishermen in November 2008. India had released 14 Pakistani fishermen in its jails in May 2008 in pursuance of the committee’s recommendations. The issue of release of remaining Indian fishermen and their boats from Pakistan’s custody is regularly taken up by the Government with the Government of Pakistan.
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Actor Anupam Kher met “Fiddler On The Roof” legend Topol recently at an International Film Festival in Israel and it was nothing less than a dream come true for him. Since his early days, Anupam wanted to meet or work with two international cinema personalities - one is Topol and the other is Woody Allen with whom he has managed to work. Anupam went there, as his film ‘A Wednesday’ was the opening film in the festival on December 6. It made a huge impact on the audience and totally empathized with the theme of terrorism as Israel has also been suffering from terrorism for a long time. And that’s where he met Topol, the Israeli star from ‘Fiddler On The Roof’ and ‘Galileo’. They spent a quality time discussing world of cinema.
Anupam is delighted to know that Topol was a close friend of the late and great Raj Kapoor Saab. There he came to know that they were very close friends. They met on several occasions and according to Topol, he saw a lot of himself in Raj Saab. When Topol met Anupam Kher in Israel, he just flooded Kher with his questions on Raj Kapoor and he also knew about Amitabh Bachchan so he asked a few questions about Big-B too.
Before the screening of his film ‘A Wednesday’, he shared his thoughts with the present audiences by saying, “It is an honour to meet Topol who’s ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ is just like a textbook for all the aspiring actors. More than anything I wanted to meet him and that is why I am here. I always wanted to meet or work with two international cinema legends and by some quirk of faith; I managed to work with Woody Allen and met Topol within one year.”
He adds further, “We didn't know much about one another's work but to our surprise we discovered we had both been doing a one-character autobiographical play for years. Topol’s play ‘Life Of Lazslo’ has had numerous shows all over the world. Luckily so has my one-actor play ‘Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai’. We promised to watch each other's play in the near future.”
They both actually have something very unique in common. Both played old men in most celebrated works when they were very young; Anupam Kher played the role of a 65 year old father who has lost his young son in ‘Saraansh’ when he was just 28 and Topol was 36 when he played Tevye’s character in ‘Fiddler On The Roof'’. More uniqueness occurred in Israel. Anupam also met the celebrated comic actress Hannah Lazslo who had won the best actress award at Cannes in 2005 for ‘Free Zone’ during the festival.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Ministry of Railways has constituted a Standing High Powered Committee on infrastructure Planning, Business Development and Project Monitoring on the Indian Railways. The committee is being headed by Shri Shri Prakash, ex-Member (Traffic), Railway Board. The Committee will also consist of two part-time members. Shri V.K.Agnihotri, retired member (Engineering), Railway Board, will be one of the two part-time members. Another member will be included in the Committee later on. Shri Prakash took over the charge of Chairman of the Committee today.
During his service in Railways, Shri Prakash worked in various important capacities like General Manager, Northern Railway, Advisor Infrastructure, Railway Board and has vast experience in Planning, Information Technology, Operations and Infrastructure Development. He relinquished the charge of Member Traffic, Railway Board, on 11th December 2009.
The terms of reference of the Standing High Powered Committee will be to suggest strategic direction for the immediate (next year), short term (next two years) and long term (the period upto 2020) periods in terms of infrastructure, technology and business strategy. The Committee will also suggest measures and assist Ministry of Railways in speedy implementation of Dedicated Freight Corridor project and to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of Project Management Group set up to monitor the ongoing railway projects.
The Committee will also advise Ministry of Railways on implementation of PPP projects and to suggest measures to fast track implementation of high priority and quick playback project/initiatives as well as to identify business opportunities and assist Ministry of Railways in implementing and developing new strategies to improve market shares in existing business segments growth platforms.
The tenure of the Committee will initially be or a period of two years from the date of taking over the charge by the Chairman of the Committee. The Committee will submit its recommendations from time to time.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Shri Anand Sharma, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry co-chaired the Indo-Italian Joint Commission for Economic Partnership with Mr. Claudio Scajola, Italian Minister for Economic Development, here today. Shri Sharma mentioned that bilateral trade between India and Italy touched US $ 8.1 billion during 2008-09 compared to US $ 7.8 billion in the previous year, despite the global economic slowdown. “With economy recovery clearly in sight in India, this forum could provide an impetus to take the partnership to the next higher level”, he added. During the discussions both the Ministers felt that the existing relationship needs to be strengthened and further developed to enhance bilateral economic and commercial relations.
A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed at the Joint Commission Meeting here today by Shri Anand Sharma and Mr. Claudio Scajola in the following areas: FICCI-ICE in Trade & Investment Promotion, Indian Trade Missions to Italian fairs, training courses and protection of Intellectual Property Rights; FICCI Arbitration and Conciliation Tribunal (FACT) – Chamber of Arbitration of Milan (CAM) in arbitration and dispute resolution; and INVESTINDIA-SIMEST and INVITALIA in bilateral investments.
Shri Sharma informed his counterpart that infrastructure development is an attractive investment opportunity and a priority area for the Indian government. India has invited investment and joint ventures in Ultra Mega Power Projects, textile machinery, agricultural food processing, automotive components and wine technology. India has offered expertise in Railways, Information technology and textiles sector.
Major issues of interest discussed by both sides were information technology, fashion design, small and medium enterprises, tourism, agriculture and food processing, infrastructure, transport, investment, automotive components, environment and energy, textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, financial cooperation and reciprocal trade promotion. The Italian side offered partnership in e-identity cards and creation of a design centre at Ahmedabad. Cooperation in shipping and developments of ports infrastructure was also high on the agenda of the Italian side. In the renewable energy sector solar energy, waste-to-energy, second generation bio-fuels and green buildings were identified for cooperation.
Both sides exchanged views about the ongoing Doha Round of negotiations and agreed that the conclusion of the round would be an important positive signal in this economic situation. The Indian side pointed out that it was committed to uphold the development dimension and the need to safeguard livelihood concerns, particularly of the poor and subsistence farmers in their countries.
The next meeting of the Joint Commission between India and Italy will be held in Italy during 2010.
India’s exports to Italy mainly consist of transport equipments, readymade garments, machinery & instruments, primary & semi-finished iron & steel, cotton yarn, fabrics & made-ups, footwear of leather, manufacture of metals, ferro-alloys, gems & jewellery and inorganic & organic chemicals. Major items of imports from Italy are machinery except electrical & electronics, transport equipments, iron & steel, other commodities.
Earlier, Shri Anand Sharma and Mr. Claudio Scajola jointly inaugurated the India–Italy Joint business and Investment Forum. Representatives of Tuscany, Sicily, Piedmont, Lazio and Marche regions of Italy attended the Investment Forum, apart from apex chambers from both sides.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Worldwide, diabetics are required to produce proof of good blood sugar control to keep their driving license. A new study by Dr. Donald A. Redelmeier, professor of medicine at the University of Toronto has shown that diabetics, who keep their blood sugar tightly controlled run the risk of having traffic accidents due to low blood sugar, said Dr KK Aggarwal President heart Care Foundation of India.
The risk was substantial, accounting for almost 50 percent of the accidents. The accidents were mostly related to severe hypoglycemia in association with strict blood sugar control. The findings were published online Dec. 8 in PLoS Medicine.
For the study, Redelmeier's team collected data on 795 diabetic drivers. They found that one in 14 of the drivers had been involved in car accidents. Those with low blood sugar were more likely to have had an accident than were diabetics whose blood sugar was not as well controlled. Moreover, the risk for having a car accident increased fourfold if the person had a history of hypoglycemia. Diabetics should not to drive if they feel dizzy or have other symptoms of hypoglycemia. If some one has had a hypoglycemic episode yesterday, he or she should not drive the car next day.
Patients with diabetes should drive only if diabetes is under control and there is no evidence of end organ disqualifying disease. Definitive criteria are not available but an American Diabetes Association table indicates upper limits for acceptable control as follows
Fasting sugar: Normal 115 mg/dL, acceptable 140 mg/dL.
2 hour postprandial plasma glucose: normal 140 mg/dL, acceptable 200 mg/dL.
Glycosylated hemoglobin A1C: normal 6 percent, acceptable 8 percent.
Mandeep Puri
T-Series has brought in a very unique collaboration for the first time ever, clubbing Western Music with the Indian Flavours. In a tribute to the Mumbai Terror attacks that hit the city on 26th November, 2008, Divya Kumar has directed Music Composer and Singer Adnan Sami with Pop King Michael Jackson’s Sibling Jermaine Jackson in a video of Adnan Sami’s new album “Ek Ladki Deewani Si”, which will be out on T-Series soon. This album is also being looked as an Indian Tribute to Michael Jackson.
Mandeep Puri
The Czars of Music, T-Series has brought in a very unique collaboration for the first time ever, clubbing Western Music with the Indian Flavours. In a tribute to the Mumbai Terror attacks that hit the city on 26th November, 2008, Divya Kumar has directed Music Composer and Singer Adnan Sami with Pop King Michael Jackson’s Sibling Jermaine Jackson in a video of Adnan Sami’s new album “Ek Ladki Deewani Si”, which will be out on T-Series soon. This album is also being looked as an Indian Tribute to Michael Jackson.
The video called Let’s go to Mumbai City is about Mumbai, a city which is a dream destination for many. A city infused with endless energy. “In the video I have tried to show 2 international artistes Jermaine Jackson & Adnan Sami coming to Mumbai and exploring the various facets of Mumbai. The city is always so full of life, so full of interesting people from all cultural backgrounds. Jermaine Jackson & Adnan Sami breathe the Mumbai air and as they go about meeting Mumbaikars, they become a part of them. They enjoy dancing with the street kids, they love the festive atmosphere of the city, they go berserk in the Mumbai rain but still don’t tire out as the city has generated immense passion in them, touched their hearts and hence they perform calling out to the world, Let’s go to Mumbai city…..Coz world ka dil Mumbai City,” says Divya Kumar, who is the Creative Director of T Series as well.
This video was shot at various places like CST Terminal and Gateway of India in Mumbai. It also takes an inspiration from Michael Jackson’s – “They Really Don’t care About Us” track. It has also been shot in some slum areas in Mumbai. This is the first time after the death of legendary Michael Jackson that his elder brother would be seen in an album and that too in an Indian Album where both the artists in the album are International. The song Let’s Go to Mumbai City has been choreographed by well know Choreographer Remo D’Souza.
The other video named Ek Ladki Deewani in sync with the title is again directed by Divya Kumar only, starring Adnan Sami in the lead. This is a Romantic Song and equally Romanticized video has been shot for the same.
T-Series has been ranked as "India's No. 1 Music Company" by A.C. Nielsen-ORG-MARG. The Copyright in respect of aforesaid Music and Video exists inter-alia for the territories of entire world and the said Copyright is valid and subsisting in T-Series’ favour.
There are 42 Hindi Films on the floor for which T-Series holds the Audio / Video copyright. T-Series counts among the biggest film releases for 2008, 2009 & 2010. It includes big banner film productions, theatrical distribution, merchandising & big budget promotions, 1482 exclusively signed artists, 35000 + audio titles and 2000 video titles. Hindi film music comprises 5800 Film / Combination titles.
T-Series has extensive captive talent pool of authors, composers and performance artists – Himesh Reshammiya, Adnan Sami, Jagjit Singh, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Abhijeet, Sonu Nigam, Udit Narayan, Pankaj Udhas, Neeraj Shridhar etc.
New Music Titles are added almost every day in T-Series’ already existing vast catalogue.
Sameer Pushp
The glue that holds the infrastructure sector is cement and the growth of Cement Industry is directly linked to the growth of infrastructure sector. India today is the second fastest growing economy in the world with the cement and construction sector being the prime movers. The Indian cement industry with a total installed capacity of 219 million tonnes is the second largest producer in the world and has been growing at a rate of 9 to 10 per cent per annum. With a large percentage of Indian population being below the age of 25, the construction activity is expected to make a significant contribution in the context of growing housing needs, development of roads and other infrastructure, urbanization, etc.
It is the construction sector which shares the blame of global economic slowdown leading to slackening of demand for housing; but withstanding that hard time, our cement sector is still growing at a 10 per cent when compared to the global average of 5 per cent. Indian Industry is fortunate in having an active support and services of the National Council for Cement & Building Materials with an excellent R&D Infrastructure and invaluable intellectual capital. In a recent International Seminar on Cement & Building Materials in New Delhi, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, said: “In spite of global slowdown and reduction in demand, cement industry needs to be complimented for weathering the downturn and recording a commendable growth of around 8 per cent in 2007-08 as well as in 2008-09. In the current year 2009-10 so far, the pace of growth of cement industry has accelerated significantly above double digit.”
The Indian Cement Industry has achieved an installed capacity of 242 million tonnes and is targetted to reach 300 million tonnes by 2011-12 and 600 million by 2020. India has 97 per cent of the installed capacity through dry process; the Indian Cement Industry has been adopting latest technologies for energy conservation and pollution control as well as on-line process of quality control based on expert systems and laboratory automation. Despite having high demand in India, our per capita cement consumption is very low, where the world average is 396 kg, in India the per capita consumption is only 156 kg. India being the country of young population has a huge potential and its ushering social and economic base will improve the domestic consumption.
Indian cement industry is efficient and eco-friendly, when it comes to energy conservation, the best level is achieved by the Industry as far as data goes of 687 kilo calories per kg of clinker and 66 KWh per tonne cement are at par with the best achieved levels in the world. The Cement industry effort towards control of emissions, preservations of ecology and its Corporate Social Responsibility for Environmental Protection are laudable. The sustainable and long- standing efforts towards reduction of carbon footprint is commendable – CO2 emission of 0.82 tonnes per tonne of cement produced in 2006, a sustainable drop from the level of 1.12 in 1996 and 0.94 in 2000.
On the technology front, the Indian Cement Industry has largely adopted state-of-art manufacturing technologies, system for cogeneration of power and technologies for low NOx and SO2 emission have yet to achieve many targets. The initiative taken by cement industry for waste utilization are evident from the fact that production of blended cement in the country in the year 2008-09 was as high as 74 per cent as against only 36 per cent in 2000-01. The Indian Cement Industry annually recycles more that 30 million tones of fly ash, apart from consuming the entire quality of granulated blast furnace slag- another waste generated by steel plants in our country.
The rising cost of energy transportation and persistent raw material pressures have been playing a heavy strain on the cement and construction industry. As a result, Indian Companies have to not only explore alternate sources of energy and materials but also strive to enhance operational efficiency. But India’s potential for growth remains intact. The need of the hour is to spend invest adequately in developing human resources capable of addressing the professional needs of construction industry like application of advanced technologies and construction practices, project management construction, litigation, insurance and finance, etc.
Indian Cement Industry is in search of competitive advantage, therefore, it is continuously improving on the innovation and optimization front. While embracing its commitment to grow and compete globally, it is however not neglecting the ecological and environmental needs. Cement sector is adopting sustainable development practices and conservation measures while harnessing energy for its use. The industry if fully committed and partner global efforts to reduce Green House Gases impact and mitigating the evil of climate change.
Mandeep Puri
After a long time the veteran Actors Naseeruddin Shah, Ompuri & Padmini Kohlapure have collaborated for a film “Bolo Raam” releasing on 31st of December, 2009. Produced by Goldy Bhutani of Shree Keshav Films, the film also marks the debut of young lad Rishi Bhutani who has straight away made his mark as an actor by working with the senior actors like Naseer and Ompuri. The film is also debut in Direction for Rakesh Chaturvedi “Om” who has been a theatre actor with Naseer for a long time. The film also casts Rajpal Yadav, Govind Namdev and Manoj Pahwa in pivotal roles.
Bolo Raam is the story of a boy Raam Kaushik (Rishi Bhutani). It is a past paced and gripping thriller murder mystery. Raam is charged with the murder of his mother Archana (Padmini Kohlapure). On the other hand, Raam falls in to a state of shock, brief psychotic disorder, after his mother’s death and become silent, refusing to talk or react in any manner. The story unfolds as the investigating officer, Indrajeet Singh Rathi (Om Puri), much to his frustration is puzzled and unable to make Raam speak. He consults a Psychiatrist Dr. N.S Negi (Naseeruddin Shah) to determine Raam’s state of mind and the reason for his slience. The movie progresses as he interrogates various personalities for the case, questioning each and every person possibly connected to Archana and Raam. Every possible motive that Raam might have for murdering his mother is explored. Furthermore, Raam’s neighbours Sub Inspector Sajid Khan (Govind Namdev) his daughter, Juhi (Disha Pandey) and son, Sameer (Krishan Khatra) are summoned by Rathi for Interrogation. This is Bolo Raam. Will his silence solve the puzzle?
Naseeruddin Shah comments on his role in the film- “I play a psychiatrist who is given a task to make Raam speak so that the truth is unveiled. It is a very intense character and I enjoyed working with Rakesh, who has been a great actor before he came to directing this film.” Shah also praises the debutant Rishi a lot and adds- “I must say that it doesn’t look from anywhere that Rishi has done his first film. He was so good as an actor. His character was the toughest in the film and I would say that he performed so easily. I would say that this young boy has a lot of talent and would go miles. I am always here to help him and guide him ahead.”
Naseer nostalgically also says- “I feel so great to be working with Padmini after a long gap, infact if I can recall, it was ‘Wo Saat Din’, in which we were seen together before this. Also teaming up with Om after Maqbool & Shoot on Sight was a nice experience yet again.”
Om Puri says- “It was so nice to be working with Naseer again after our collaboration in Shoot on Sight and Maqbool. I think people realy liked us there and I am hoping that audiences will like our work in ‘Bolo Raam’ also. I must say that Rishi has done some fabulous work and has made a real difficult role look very easy and people will know that when they watch the film.”
Rishi Bhutani humbly accepts all the nice words by the veteran actors and adds- “It was so challenging for me to work with the best known actors of our industry. I was so nervous when I started, but Naseer Sir, Om Puri sir and Padimini Mam, really made me feel so enthusiastic as the camera rolled on. I would say it has been a dream role for me as working with legends of our industry and that too in my first film, I had never thought. I hope that audiences like the film.”
Producer Goldy Bhutani adds- “I thank Naseer Ji, Om Ji and Padmini ji for coming together for this project and would say that Rakesh has done some excellent work as a director. It is a must watch film for everyone to know how circumstances take over the good times.”
Mr. Goldy Bhutani is a Los Angeles, California based businessman and owner of a Skin Cancer and Histology Lab for over 10 years. He started his own Production Company in Mumbai named SHREE KESHAV FILMS in 2007 and is a registered member of the AMPTPP. BOLO RAAM is the first production film for SHREE KESHAV FILMS.
Rakesh Chaturvedi “Om” who has been doing theatres with Naseer says of his maiden film-“I am glad that on my single request, I got support of such big & talented actors. I infact always wanted to direct Naseer sir in a film and with this film, it is my dream come true.
The music in the film Bolo Raam is by Sachin Gupta and singers like Sukhwinder Singh and Sunidhi Chauhan have lent their voices to the songs of the film.
