Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Minister of State for Tourism Shri Sultan Ahmed has said that tourism plays an important role in most developing as well as developed countries. He said, the sector accounts for 11% of the GDP and 8% of employment globally. Leading Tourism Organizations, including World Tourism Organization and World Tourism and Travel Council, have declared Indian tourism as the fastest growing at a rate of about 8%.
He was speaking today at a function organized by PHD Chamber of Commerce in New Delhi for the presentation of cheques to the two charity organizations- Plan India and PHD Family Welfare Foundation (PHDFWF).
Shri Ahmed said, India’s performance in tourism sector has been quite impressive. During the period 2002 to 2009, India witnessed as increase in the Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) from 2.38 million to 5.11 million. Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from tourism increased from 15,064 crore in 2002 to 54,960 crore in 2009. The minister said, not only this, during 2009, the number of domestic tourist visits to the States/ Union Territories was 650 million as compared to 563 million in 2008 and 527 millions in 2007.
He said, Hotel and Hospitality sector plays an important role in the growth and sustainability of tourism sector in the country. Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India is paying special attention to this sector.
Shri Ahmed said, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved broad basing hospitality education. Vocational schools, polytechnics, universities and colleges would be involved to meet the growing demand of trained manpower in hospitality sector. Revised guidelines for the Scheme of Assistance to Institute of Hotel Management and Food Craft Institutes have also been issued. He said the Ministry intends to set up 19 State IHMs and 25 State FCIs in the 11th Plan Period.
He said, the combined training capabilities currently available in the country are able to provide only 12000 trained personnel for absorption in the Hospitality industry. The existing demand is far higher at 2 lakh personnel annually. To bridge this demand–supply gap, the Ministry of Tourism has launched the “Hunar Se Rozgar” programme. The programme envisages creation of employable skills in hospitality sector under the Capacity Building Scheme. It targets the youth of weaker sections of Society who are interested in joining the hospitality industry. The programme is being operated simultaneously in the Institutes of Hotel Management and Food Craft Institutes across the country. Linkages forged with the Industry have ensured that successful candidates are now finding appropriate placements in the Hotels and Restaurants.
Kalpana Palkhiwala
Noise pollution or environmental noise is displeasing to human beings and animals. Unwanted sound can damage physiological and psychological health of humans. It can cause hypertension, high stress levels, tinnitus which leads to forgetfulness, severe depression and at times panic attacks, hearing loss, sleep disturbances, and other harmful effects.
Noise also has a detrimental effect on animals by causing stress, increasing risk of mortality by changing the delicate balance in predator/prey detection and avoidance. Impact of noise on animal life can also result in the reduction of usable habitat which in the case of endangered species may be part of the path to extinction. One of the best known cases of damage caused by noise pollution is the death of certain species of whales, brought by about the loud sound of military sonar.
The source of most outdoor noise worldwide is mainly construction and transportation systems, including motor vehicle, aircraft and rail noise. Poor urban planning has also given rise to noise pollution, caused by closed proximity of industrial and residential buildings.
Indoor and outdoor noise pollution sources include car alarms, emergency service sirens, mechanical equipment, fireworks, compressed air horns, groundskeeping equipment, appliances, lighting hum, audio entertainment systems, electric megaphones etc,.
Noise also makes species communicate louder, which is called Lombard vocal response. Scientists and researchers have conducted experiments that show whales song length is longer when submarine-detectors are on.
Noise was included in the definition of the ‘air pollutants’ under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The same was followed by the notification of ambient noise standards under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Air Act, 1981. This enabled the Central, State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees to take suitable action against sources causing noise pollution. Subsequently, the following source specific noise standards have been brought out:
• Noise Standards for motor vehicles: These standards are applicable at the manufacturing stage, being implemented by the Ministry of Surface Transport
. • Noise Standards for diesel generator sets: The revised notification prescribes noise standards for diesel generator sets (upto 1000 KVA) at manufacturing stage. The CPCB is the nodal agency for its implementation with the help of various Certification Agencies. The revised notification also prescribes noise standards for diesel gensets manufactured before 01.01.2005 and/or larger than 1000 KVA.
• Noise Standards for fire-crackers: These are applicable at the manufacturing stage. The Department of Explosives (now known as The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization) is the implementation agency for these standards.
In addition to the above standards, the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 have been notified for regulation of ambient noise standards, regulation of noise due to loudspeakers etc. under these Rules, the Competent Authority for regulation of the Noise includes District Magistrate, Police Commissioner or any other Officer not below the rank of the Deputy Superintendent of Police. Apart from the provisions under the Air Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Rules under the Factories Act, 1948 prescribe maximum permissible noise exposure levels for work zone areas.
A National Committee on Noise Pollution Control has been constituted to advise Central Pollution Control Board in noise pollution related matters. The CPCB and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) are monitoring ambient noise levels in areas in Delhi. Noise monitoring has also been initiated in Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and other cities by the concerned State Pollution Control Boards and PCCs on festive occasions.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Shri Anand Sharma, Commerce and Industry Minister, while interacting with the British Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameron in London yesterday raised concerns of Indian industry over the proposed cap on non–EU immigration in UK and stressed the importance of enhancing greater people to people contact, which was crucial for the service industry. Shri Sharma also expressed satisfaction over the recent pronouncement by Britain to have an “enhanced engagement” with India. Mr. Cameron confirmed the acceptance of invitation extended by Dr. Manmohan Singh to visit India in July. PM Cameron said that during his visit, he would like to focus on attracting greater Indian investment into UK and on how UK could support India’s agenda of development of education at all levels. He also emphasized the need for greater scientific collaboration and joint development of new technologies.
During his visit, Shri Sharma also met Foreign Secretary William Hague and they exchanged views on issues of shared concern, including the situation in India’s neighbourhood.
Shri Sharma had a bilateral meeting with his counterpart Business Secretary, Mr. Vincent Cable. Mr Cable reiterated the commitment of the new government for a stronger partnership and emphasized about the collaboration in high technology, higher education, scientific research, renewable energy, green technology development, manufacturing, infrastructure and agro processing.
Shri Sharma also addressed the CII–LSE conference on Business opportunities in India. He spoke on the imperatives of global economic growth through an Indian perspective.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Sanitation workers and Leather Workers. The Group will submit its report to the Ministry of Labour & Employment by 30th September, 2010.
The Working Group will have fifteen members and would include Shri Anil Swarup, Joint Secretary/Director General (Labour Welfare) in the Ministry of Labour & Employment and a representative each from the Union Ministries of Social Justice and Empowerment, Urban Development, Railways and Planning Commission.
Apart from the above, the Working Group will also include a representative of V.V. Giri National Labour Institute, and also from the International Labour Organization.
Shri K.B. Krishnamurthy, Former Member of Parliament and Former Member of National Commission for Safai Karamcharis, Shri P.S. Krishnan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Harsh Mander, Social Activist and Former Civil Servant, Shri Bezwada Wilson, convener of Safai Karamcharis Andolan, Shri Narayana, Former Mayor – Mysore City Corporation have also been included in the Group.
Shri Suraj Bhan, Economic Adviser, Office of the Director General (Labour Welfare), Ministry of Labour & Employment, Jaisalmer House, Mansingh Road, New Delhi, has been designated as the Convener of the Working Group.
It may be recalled that the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has been persuing the matter with the Ministry of Labour & Employment as the sanitation workers predominanatly belong to unorganized sector, and it has been felt imperative that there should be proper framework to regulate their working conditions from the health and safety point of view and for providing for their welfare as a distinct group. Several distinct groups have separate legislations governing their working conditions like Construction Workers, Beedi Workers and Plantation Labour etc.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Vice President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari released a book entitled “A Brahmin Without Caste- Remembering Rishi Kumar Mishra” based on the life of veteran journalist and former Editor of ‘Patriot” late Shri R.K.Mishra at a function organized by Observer Research Foundation here today.
Addressing on the occasion the Vice President said that Shri R.K.Mishra was a unique person and this book testifies it in ample measures. He played his effective role in a very quite way. The Union Finance Minister Shri Pranab Mukharjee and many dignitaries were present in the function.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. BHEL built thermal, hydro, gas and nuclear sets recorded an all-time high generation of 490 Billion units of electricity in FY 2009-10. Out of the country’s total generation by coal based utilities, BHEL sets have contributed a record 79.9%. Consistently exceeding the national average efficiency parameters, in 2009-10 also, BHEL-manufactured thermal sets achieved an Operating Availability (OA) of 87%, while the Plant Load Factor (PLF) at 78.4% was also higher than the national average. Notably, 72 sets achieved PLF of over 90% and 136 thermal sets achieved OA higher than 90%.
BHEL-make 200-500 MW thermal sets, which form the backbone of the country's thermal generating capacity, operated at an OA of 90.1% and PLF of 82.1%. These sets have been achieving an availability of more than 90% consistently for the last three years. During the year, BHEL also reinforced its commitment to providing prompt and efficient customer service aimed at facilitating uninterrupted power supply and keeping power plants in good running condition by overhauling 92 thermal utility/industrial sets.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. Market Research Division of Ministry of Tourism compiles data on “domestic and foreign tourist visits to States/ UTs” received from Ministries/ Departments of Tourism of various State Governments and UT Administrations.
Following are the important highlights of data for 2009:
(a) Domestic Tourist Visits to Sates/ UTs
During 2009, the number of domestic tourist visits to the States/ UTs was 650 million as compared to 563 million in 2008 and 527 millions in 2007.
During 2009, the number of domestic tourist visits to States/UTs registered an increase of 15.5% over 2008 as compared to increase of 6.9% in 2008 over 2007.
The top ten States in terms of number of domestic tourist visits (in millions) during 2009 were Andhra Pradesh (157.5), Uttar Pradesh (134.8), Tamil Nadu (115.8), Karnataka (32.7), Rajasthan (25.6), Maharashtra (23.7), Madhya Pradesh (23.1), Uttarakhand (21.9), West Bengal (20.5) and Gujarat (15.9).
The contribution of top 10 States was about 88% to the total number of domestic tourist visits during 2009. The percentage shares of top 5 States were Andhra Pradesh (24.2%), Uttar Pradesh (20.7%), Tamil Nadu (17.8%), Karnataka (5.0%) and Rajasthan (3.9%).
(b) Foreign Tourist visits to States/ UTs
During 2009, the number of foreign tourist visits (FTVs) to the States/ UTs was 13.7 million as compared to 14.1 million in 2008 and 13.3 million in 2007.
During 2009, the number of FTVs to States/UTs registered a decline of 2.8% over 2008 as compared to an increase of 6.4% in 2008 over 2007. This decline in FTVs is similar to the trend of the decline of 3.3% in the foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) during 2009.
The top ten States in terms of number of FTVs (in millions) during 2009 were Tamil Nadu (2.37), Maharashtra (2.0), Delhi (1.96), Uttar Pradesh (1.53), West Bengal (1.18), Rajasthan (1.07), Andhra Pradesh (0.80), Kerala (0.55), Bihar (0.42) and Himachal Pradesh (0.40).
The contribution of top 10 States was about 90% to the total number of FTVs in the country during 2009. The percentage shares of top 5 States were Tamil Nadu (17.3%), Maharashtra (14.6%), Delhi (14.3%), Uttar Pradesh (11.25) and West Bengal (8.6%).
Data show that domestic tourism registered an impressive growth of 15.5% in 2009 inspite of economic recession and other adverse factors for tourism. On the contrary, FTAs and FTVs registered a decline of 3.3% and 2.8% respectively during the same period. This brings out the importance of domestic tourism in the overall tourism development in the country.
Firdaus Khan
As per a research led by the Japanese Health ministry and published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, men in the most active group of people surveyed had 13 percent less risk of developing cancer compared with the least active group, and women in the most active group had a 16 percent lower risk than their sedentary counterparts.
Around 80,000 men and women between the ages 45 to 74 living in nine Japanese prefectures were included in the survey. The surveyed population was divided into four groups according to their ratio of individual working metabolic rate, or MET (metabolic equivalent), which was determined by the amount of time respondents spent sitting, walking, standing, sleeping and exercising.
The trend was most noticeable among Japanese women, who were less likely to develop cancer if they were engaging in regular exercise and led an active lifestyle.
Star News Agency
Update for the southwest monsoon season (June-September) rainfall over the country as a whole using a 6-parameter ensemble statistical model with a model error of ± 4% which include Northwest India , Northeast India , Central India and South Peninsula Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands .Forecasts for the monthly rainfall over the country as a whole for the months of July & August using separate principle component regression models with a model error of ± 9% and forecasts for the southwest monsoon season (June-September) rainfall for the four broad geographical regions of India using separate multiple linear regression models with a model error of ± 8% have been included in the second stage forecast.
IMD has also generated experimental forecast for the 2010 southwest monsoon rainfall based on the IMD’s dynamical forecast system (Seasonal Forecast model of the Experimental Climate Prediction Centre (ECPC),
Regarding onset and Advance of Monsoon 2010, IMD informs that associated with the formation of cyclone “LAILA” over Bay of Bengal, southwest monsoon set in over Andaman Sea around 17th May, 3 days before its normal date. Subsequently monsoon reached Kerala on31th may, just one day before its normal date and advanced over northeastern states by 2nd June. With onset of monsoon over Kerala, another cyclonic storm (“PHET”) formed over the
The cumulated seasonal rainfall over the country as a whole during the period 1-24th June is 89% of LPA. The El Nino conditions over equatorial Pacific that started in the mid June 20089 peaked in December and dissipated during early May, 2010. Since then, ENSO-neutral conditions are prevailing with negative SST anomalies observed over the equatorial Pacific from the middle of May. The latest forecasts from a majority of the dynamical and statistical models indicate continued and rapid cooling of the equatorial Pacific to below La Nina thresholds. There is very high probability (about 60%) for the La Nina conditions to develop during the monsoon season, which favours stronger than normal monsoon.
Recent forecasts from some coupled models suggest possibility of the development of a weak positive Indian Ocean Dipole event during the 2010 monsoon season, which may not have much impact on the Indian monsoon.
Rainfall over the country as a whole for the 2010 southwest monsoon season (June to September) is likely to be normal. Quantitatively, monsoon season rainfall for the country as a whole is likely to be 102% of long period average (LPA) with a model error of ± 4 %.
Rainfall over the country as a whole in the month of July 2010 is likely to be 98% of LPA and that in the month of August is likely to be 101% of LPA both with a model error of +9%.
Over the four broad geographical regions of the country, rainfall for the 2010 Southwest Monsoon Season is likely to be 102% of LPA over Norht-West India, 103% of LPA over North-East India, 99% of LPA over Central India and 102% of LPA over
Star News Agency
Update for the southwest monsoon season (June-September) rainfall over the country as a whole using a 6-parameter ensemble statistical model with a model error of ± 4% which include Northwest India , Northeast India , Central India and South Peninsula Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands .Forecasts for the monthly rainfall over the country as a whole for the months of July & August using separate principle component regression models with a model error of ± 9% and forecasts for the southwest monsoon season (June-September) rainfall for the four broad geographical regions of India using separate multiple linear regression models with a model error of ± 8% have been included in the second stage forecast.
IMD has also generated experimental forecast for the 2010 southwest monsoon rainfall based on the IMD’s dynamical forecast system (Seasonal Forecast model of the Experimental Climate Prediction Centre (ECPC),
Regarding onset and Advance of Monsoon 2010, IMD informs that associated with the formation of cyclone “LAILA” over Bay of Bengal, southwest monsoon set in over Andaman Sea around 17th May, 3 days before its normal date. Subsequently monsoon reached Kerala on31th may, just one day before its normal date and advanced over northeastern states by 2nd June. With onset of monsoon over Kerala, another cyclonic storm (“PHET”) formed over the
The cumulated seasonal rainfall over the country as a whole during the period 1-24th June is 89% of LPA. The El Nino conditions over equatorial Pacific that started in the mid June 20089 peaked in December and dissipated during early May, 2010. Since then, ENSO-neutral conditions are prevailing with negative SST anomalies observed over the equatorial Pacific from the middle of May. The latest forecasts from a majority of the dynamical and statistical models indicate continued and rapid cooling of the equatorial Pacific to below La Nina thresholds. There is very high probability (about 60%) for the La Nina conditions to develop during the monsoon season, which favours stronger than normal monsoon.
Recent forecasts from some coupled models suggest possibility of the development of a weak positive Indian Ocean Dipole event during the 2010 monsoon season, which may not have much impact on the Indian monsoon.
Rainfall over the country as a whole for the 2010 southwest monsoon season (June to September) is likely to be normal. Quantitatively, monsoon season rainfall for the country as a whole is likely to be 102% of long period average (LPA) with a model error of ± 4 %.
Rainfall over the country as a whole in the month of July 2010 is likely to be 98% of LPA and that in the month of August is likely to be 101% of LPA both with a model error of +9%.
Over the four broad geographical regions of the country, rainfall for the 2010 Southwest Monsoon Season is likely to be 102% of LPA over Norht-West India, 103% of LPA over North-East India, 99% of LPA over Central India and 102% of LPA over
Star News Agency
Star News Agency
New Delhi. To arrive at a viable and sustainable system of pricing of petroleum products, Government had set up an Expert Group under the chairmanship of Dr. Kirit Parikh. In the light of Government’s budgetary constraints and the growing imperative for fiscal consolidation, and the need for allocating more funds to social sector schemes for the common man, the Government has decided that the pricing of Petrol and Diesel both at the refinery gate and the retail level will be market-determined. However, in respect of Diesel, the initial increase in retail selling price of Diesel will be Rs.2 per litre at Delhi, with corresponding increases in other parts of the country. Further increases will be made by the Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) in consultation with the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. It has also been decided that in case of a high rise and volatility in international oil prices, Government will suitably intervene in the pricing of Petrol and Diesel.
Market determined pricing of Petrol and Diesel is expected to do away with the OMCs’ under-recoveries on these two products, which are projected to be approximately Rs.22,000 crore during the remaining part of 2010-11. This will not only improve their financial health, it will also enable Government to allocate greater resources for social sector schemes. Market determined pricing is expected to attract higher investments in the fuel retail sector, and by spurring market competition, encourage OMCs to reduce costs, improve efficiency and service standards. Market determined pricing will also incentivise fuel conservation and encourage the consumer to adopt fuel efficiency practices.
In view of the importance of the household fuels, namely PDS Kerosene and Domestic LPG, the Government has decided that the subsidies on these products will continue. The PDS Kerosene and Domestic LPG Subsidy Scheme, 2002 and the Freight Subsidy (For Far-flung Areas) Scheme, 2002 have been extended till 31.03.2014.
The current prices of PDS Kerosene and Domestic LPG are the lowest among the neighbouring countries. The consumer price of Kerosene is Rs.35.97/litre in Pakistan, Rs.29.43/litre in Bangladesh, Rs.21.02/litre in Sri Lanka and Rs.39.24/litre in Nepal. Similarly, the consumer price of LPG is Rs.577.18/ cylinder in Pakistan, Rs.537.37/ cylinder in Bangladesh, Rs.822.65/ cylinder in Sri Lanka and Rs.782.84/ cylinder in Nepal.
At current international oil prices, the OMCs are incurring an under-recovery of Rs.17.92 per litre on PDS Kerosene and Rs.261.90 per cylinder on Domestic LPG. To reduce this under-recovery burden of the OMCs as also to protect the common man, the Government has decided to increase the retail price of PDS Kerosene by only Rs.3 per litre and of Domestic LPG by only Rs. 35 per cylinder (at Delhi), with corresponding increases in other parts of the country.
Even after the above measures, the Government and the Public Sector oil companies are expected to bear an estimated under-recovery burden of about Rs.53,000 crore on the four sensitive petroleum products during 2010-11.
The Government is committed to making available the essential fuels, particularly the cooking fuels to the common man at affordable prices. The above decisions will not only continue to protect the vulnerable sections of society but also improve the financial health of the public sector OMCs, which need resources to invest in new refineries, marketing terminals, storage depots, pipelines, port facilities and other infrastructure for ensuring the country’s long-term energy security.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. To prevent diabetes, women should eat more of green leafy vegetables and whole fruits, and stay away from fruit juices said Dr KK Aggarwal, President Heart Care Foundation of India.
Eating an additional three servings of whole fruit daily or one more serving of spinach, kale or similar leafy green vegetables was tied to a lower risk of developing diabetes over an 18–year period among 71,346 women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study.
Dr Lydia A. Bazzano of Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans analyzed data on the diets of Nurses’ Health Study participants –– 4,529 of whom developed type 2 diabetes while they were being followed. They divided women into five groups based on fruit and vegetable intake, and also grouped them on the basis of fruit juice consumption.
They found that an increase of three servings a day of whole fruit was associated with an 18 percent lower risk of type 2 diabetes, while a single additional serving of leafy green vegetables cut the risk by 9 percent. However, an additional daily serving of fruit juice increased the likelihood of developing diabetes by 18 percent.
Juice is a big sugar load and it comes in a liquid form which is absorbed rapidly. Caution should be observed in replacing some beverages with fruit juices in an effort to provide healthier options. A 100 percent fruit juice cannot be considered a serving of fruit.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has asked the state authorities to keep a strict vigil on use of carbide gas for ripening of fruits. Use of carbide gas for ripening of fruits is prohibited under Rule 44 AA of Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules 1955. In a circular to all State Food (Health) authorities the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has stressed the need to take legal action for violation the PFA Rules. The circular also invited attention of the enforcement authorities in the states to the provisions that circumstantial evidence of presence of calcium carbide in godowns/wooden crates/premises kept together with fruits may be evidence for the courts that artificial ripening has been used by the vendor. The FSSAI has also circulated a copy of procedure for detection of acetylene in godown or treatment chamber for detection of artificial ripening of fruits.
The Union Minister of State, Health and Family Welfare, Shri Dinesh Trivedi directed the authorities to take up this issue with states. Shri Trivedi took up the issue as it compromises the health of millions of consumers. The minister felt that traders, retailers sometimes even growers, in order to, ensure a regular supply of fruits, much before their due time use all kinds of unscrupulous methods to ripen fruits artificially. It is also a violation of Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules 1955.
The implementation of Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and Rules 1955 is entrusted to state authorities. Samples of various food items are taken regularly by the State UT authorities and action is taken in case of any adulteration of food items.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. The Vice President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari presented the International Awards for Young People (IAYP) – India Gold Awards to the young awardees at a function here today. He presented 44 Gold Awards in 4 categories i.e Service, Adventurous Journey, Skills and Physical Recreation. The young awardees include 8 from East Zone, 11 from West Zone, 13 from North Zone and 12 from South Zone.
Addressing the young awardees the Vice President said that ours is a huge country and every young person should prove that he is a better citizen of our country. Amongst us the utility bond is that of common citizenship. We must enjoy our rights and do our duties of citizenship to the fullest. Describing the young awardees as the role models in their grouping, he wished them all the success in their endeavors.
The International Awards for Young People (IAYP) is an exciting self-development programme for all young people aged between 14 and 25 years worldwide. It equips them with like skills, builds their confidence and engages them with their communities. There are three Award Levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold, each requiring increasing commitment and effort. Bronze usually takes 6-12 months to complete, Silver 12-18 months and Gold 18-24 months. The Award Programme comprises four Sections: Service develops a sense of community and social responsibility; the Adventurous Journey cultivates a spirit of adventure and an understanding of the environment; the Skills Section develops cultural, vocational and practical skills; and Physical Recreation encourages improved performance and fitness.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Tehri Hydro Development Corporation, THDC India Ltd has signed a `Memorandum of Understanding’ (MOU) with Deptt. of Energy, Royal Govt. of Bhutan for updation of `Detailed Project Report’ (DPR) of 180 MW Bunakha Hydro Electric Project in Bhutan.
The MOU was signed by Shri R.S.T. Sai, CMD, THDC India Limited and Shri Yeshi Wangdi, Director General, Royal Govt. of Bhutan in the presence of Shri Satish C Mehta, Jt. Secy. (North) Ministry of External Affairs, Shri D.V. Singh, Director Technical, THDC and Ms. Kalayani Mishra, Dy. Secy., Ministry of Power Govt. of India alongwith other Officials of Ministry of External Affairs and Royal Govt. of Bhutan. Bunakha Project is a part of the Govt. of India’s initiative of developing 10,000 MW of hydro power in Bhutan by year 2020.
THDC has also been assigned the responsibility of updation of DPR of Sankosh Multipurpose Project (4060 MW) in Bhutan. THDC has already established a full fledged office in Phuentsholing, Bhutan and two offices each in Bunakha and Sankosh project sites.
THDC is well established `Mini Ratna’ Company in hydro sector and has achievement of successfully commissioning and maintaining Tehri Dam Project to its credit. Company is poised to add 400 MW to its hydro capacity by Commissioning Koteshwar Project. THDC now has a vision to contribute greatly towards the Indo-Bhutan Co-operation in hydro development.
Anand Sharma Attends Second Meeting of US-India CEO ForumOpportunities to Promote Investment and Job Growth
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Shri Anand Sharma, Minister for Commerce and Industry led an official delegation for the second meeting of the reconstituted US-India CEO Forum at Washington DC yesterday. The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Ratan Tata, Chairman, TATA Group from the Indian side and Mr. Dave Cote, CEO, Honeywell Inc., from the US side. The CEOs from the two countries discussed opportunities for new partnerships between businesses in the United States and India, and ways to promote investment and job growth in both countries. The meeting was also attended by Finance Minister, Shri Pranab Mukherjee and Shri Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission. The US official delegation included Secretary of State Mrs. Hillary Clinton, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, US Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk and Director of National Economic Council Mr. Larry Summers.
The US-India CEO Forum presented its recommendations to the representatives of both the Governments. These recommendations broadly covered areas like infrastructure; clean energy; education and skill development; bio-technology and breakthrough long-term ideas like a diabetes breakthrough project and strategic space co-operation.
During the interactions, Shri Sharma explained that “we are in the process of conceptualizing National Manufacturing Investment Zones as integrated industrial townships with state-of-art infrastructure and complete eco-system for manufacturing industry. This mechanism is being developed in response to the concerns on availability of developed land, infrastructure and other services for industry. A discussion paper has been placed on the website of the Department for wide-ranging consultations on this initiative. He invited the CEOs to give their comments and suggestions so that Government could take an informed decision in the matter”.
In response to a suggestion for reduction in Indian import duties on security technologies and products, he explained that 100% FDI is permitted under automatic route for manufacture of such equipment in India for non-defence application. There is a large and growing market and it would be a win-win situation for both sides if concerned businesses could establish in India. On India’s Foreign Direct Investment regime, CIM said that India has a liberal and transparent FDI regime in place except for a few sectors like banking and insurance, defence and retail trade in which we favour calibrated liberalization on account of domestic sensitivities. He said that initiatives like e-biz; incorporation of the Invest India Company, simplification and consolidation of the FDI policy pronouncements would go a long way in improving business environment.
Welcoming the CEO Forum initiative on the launching of a $ 1 billion venture capital /private equity fund for Clean Energy technology development projects, Shri Sharma said that the West, including US, will continue to lead technology development. But when it comes to adaptation, a number of emerging economies have the capability to adapt the technology to their situation. The issue is one of access to the latest technology. Hence he urged the CEO Forum to suggest specific mechanisms to make clean technologies accessible to the resource poor countries, given that these are protected by IPRs and often out of their reach. Shri Sharma also welcomed the CEO Forum initiative to participate and support the joint research centre proposed as part of Indo-US Clean Energy Research and Deployment Initiative.
Shri Sharma welcomed the initiative of the CEO Forum to establish a joint Indo-US Drug Discovery Fund and said that collaboration between research institutions and private sector cooperative research between India and the US would greatly enhance the R&D efforts in the area of biotech and health care in the two countries. Emphasizing that India is committed to a strong and equitable IPR regime and has put in place legislation and enforcement mechanisms to this effect, Shri Sharma said “Be it technology or life saving drugs, there has to be balance and sharing so that the resource poor countries are not denied access to these”.
During the bilateral meeting, Shri Sharma and United States Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk reviewed the implementation of the India- US Trade Policy Forum Framework for Cooperation on Trade and Investment singed in March 2010 and agreed to further the engagement to build on the success of the Trade Policy Forum by facilitating trade and investment flows between the two countries. They agreed to hold the next meeting of the Trade Policy Forum at an early date and also work towards identifying deliverables for the forthcoming visit of US President. CIM discussed a wide-range of issues including the Totalization Agreement, H-1B visas for Indian skilled labour, Generalized System of Preferences, labour related non-tariff barriers, other market access issues and removal of India from the Special 301 watch list. Tomorrow, CIM is scheduled to have a meeting with Commerce Secretary Gary Locke.
Ashok Handoo
A leading economic think-tank, the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), has estimated that the Indian economy is set to grow at 9.2 percent in the current financial year. This is much higher than the estimates made both by the Government and the Reserve Bank of India. The CMIE says its estimates are based on its expectations of better performance in the industrial and allied fields, as well as agriculture. It however puts a rider that monsoons must behave this year.
The assessment is in conformity with the preliminary data released by the government. The Finance Ministry suggests an 8.9 percent growth in the first quarter of the current financial year. This will be .3 per cent higher than that registered in the previous quarter, ending March 2010. The industry recorded a 17.6 percent growth in April which is almost equal to the 20 year record of 17.7 percent in December 2009. This robust growth is seen in both capital goods and consumer durables.
Exports registered a growth of 35 percent in May touching $16.1 billion mark. However, imports too recorded a rise of 19.8 percent to $27.4 billion, leading to a trade gap of $11. 3 billion. In April also, exports rose by about 35 percent. All this makes a case for optimism. Some economists describe the present status of Indian economy being in a “sweet spot.” They characterize it as less volatile with a sound financial sector.
There are concerns on inflation and fiscal deficit front. The May figures put the inflation rate at 10.2 percent. This needs to be tackled, though it can not be done overnight. The Government is dealing with the situation in a calibrated manner, both on the supply side as also on the demand side. The RBI has raised the key rates twice this year so far to check food inflation from spreading to manufacturing goods. Fortunately, the food inflation has come down from as high as 20 percent in December last to about 16 percent now. The Reserve Bank is to evaluate the situation on July 27.
On the supply side, the nation has pinned its hopes on a good monsoon this year. The Meteorological department too has predicted a normal monsoon this year. Judging by the performance of the monsoon so far, the prediction seems to be coming out true.
The Government has also allowed duty free imports of some commodities to increase their supply in the market.
But at the end of the day, the farm sector will play a crucial role in making it possible to realize the growth targets. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s recent call to raise agricultural production growth from the present 2 percent to 4 percent has to be viewed in this background. The Planning Commission has started working on the 12th Five Year Plan, beginning from 2012 and aiming at a 10 percent growth. This will be in the backdrop of 8.1 percent targeted growth for the 11th Plan. Earlier the growth rate for the 11th Plan had been fixed at 9 percent but had to be brought down in view of the global financial crisis.
One of the reasons of sluggish farm sector growth in the country has been its continued neglect over the years. The last two Plans failed to achieve the desired growth in the agricultural sector. The Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia agrees that we have to do much more in this field. That the government has now realized this is evident by its recent decision to increase sharply, the minimum support price for agricultural products to make it remunerative for the farmers. Of course it is argued by some that this could push the already high prices of agricultural commodities further up. But that would happen in the short term only. In the long term as farming becomes remunerative, it will increase the supply position and thus bring down prices.
One needs to admit that high inflation is not peculiar to India. China, for instance, recorded a 19-month high inflation in May. But that is no consolation to us. Inflation has to be brought down to the range of 5 percent and the fiscal deficit too has to be cut down sharply.
It is a matter of satisfaction that the Government is confident that it would be able to deliver on both the counts on higher growth and low inflation by the year end and begin the next financial year on a more promising note. If that happens, it will open up new vistas of economic development for the country and its people.
Star News Agency
BHEL is equipped to meet the requirements of higher-size Supercritical Thermal Plants as a result of the technology tie-up with Alstom - the world leaders in boiler technology having installed more than 4,00,000 MW of boilers globally. BHEL has an ongoing Technology Transfer Agreement with Alstom for design and manufacture of large-size Supercritical Once-Through Boilers. The agreement has enabled BHEL to gain access to Supercritical Technology, hitherto the domain of leading players, thereby enabling it to enlarge its product range. The Agreement includes transfer of state-of-the-art technology to BHEL for any size of Once-Through Boilers and associated Coal Pulverisers. During the period of the Agreement, Alstom will provide training to BHEL engineers as well as support in the design, engineering, manufacture, assembly, testing, erection, commissioning, repair, retrofit and upgradation of the boilers.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy who is on a four-day visit to Philippines to participate in the Asian Clean Energy Forum, today called on Mr. Haruhiko Kuroda, President of the Asian development Bank (ADB) at its headquarters in Manila. In the meeting that took place on the sidelines of the Forum,the two dignitaries discussed various issues relating to renewable energy. Dr. Abdullah urged the President to support demonstration projects under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission and also requested him for creating a guarantee facility for banks for stepping up lending to grid connected solar power projects. He also sought the support of ADB for setting up large solar parks in the country under the national solar mission.
President Kuroda emphasized that India is an important destination for investments. He also informed the Minister that under the Tashkent initiative, which was attended by the Indian Finance Minister, the ADB would look at supporting a number of initiatives in clean energy in India. He also informed the Minister of the 'Energy-for-all' initiative of the ADB which focuses on scaling up access to reliable and modern energy services for the poor.
President Kuroda emphasized that India is an important destination for investments. He also informed the Minister that under the Tashkent initiative, which was attended by the Indian Finance Minister, the ADB would look at supporting a number of initiatives in clean energy in India. He also informed the Minister of the 'Energy-for-all' initiative of the ADB which focuses on scaling up access to reliable and modern energy services for the poor.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. Pumpkin extract has insulin-like effects. It can help people with diabetes keep their blood sugar under control said Dr KK Aggarwal, President Heart Care Foundation of India.
Quoting Chinese researchers Dr Aggarwal said that animals with drug-induced diabetes treated with pumpkin extract had lower blood glucose levels, greater insulin secretion, and more insulin-producing beta cells than diabetic rats that weren't given the extract. This action may be due to the presence of both antioxidants and D-chiro-inositol, a molecule that mediates insulin activity.
Pumpkin extract is potentially a very good product for pre-diabetic persons, as well as those who have already developed diabetes.Pumpkin is frequently used to treat diabetes and high blood glucose in Asia.
The results of an animal study have shown that rats with diabetes had 41 percent less insulin in their blood than normal rates; giving them pumpkin extract for 30 days boosted levels of the blood-sugar-regulating hormone by 36 percent. And after 30 days of being fed pumpkin extract, diabetic rats had blood glucose levels similar to those of non-diabetic rats.
Star News Agency
Further, for sorting-out all issues of jurisdiction regarding hybrid products, a high level Committee under Chairmanship of Union Finance Minister has been constituted. Finance Secretary to Government of India, Secretary, Department of Financial Services and the Chiefs of four Financial Regulators viz. Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Insurance Regulatory Development Authority (IRDA), Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and Pension Fund Regulatory Development Authority (PFRDA) will be the members of the aforesaid Committee.
Indian Railways which is known as the ‘Life Line of the Nation’ and also for representing the composite culture of the country, has launched ‘Sanskriti Express’ a special exhibition train to commemorate 150th Birth Anniversary of Nobel laureate Kaviguru Rabindranth Tagore, showcasing his life and philosophy. It was flagged off by the Minister of Railways Mamata Banerjee from Rail Museum, Howrah on 9th May 2010. The five coach exhibition train ‘Sanskriti Yatra’ which is a tribute to Kavigur Rabindranath Tagore from Indian Railways, would run throughout the country over the next one year and return to Howrah on 8th May 2011. This train will also be visiting Bangladesh during this period.
The five air-conditioned coaches have been modified at the Liluah Railway Workshop in Howrah to depict Tagore’s achievements and thoughts. The first coach, named ‘Jibon Smriti’ is depicting the life of Tagore through photographs, his reminiscences, about Santiniketan and about Sriniketan.
Born on 7th May, 1861 in Famous Jorasanko Bhawan in Kolkata, Kaviguru Rabindranath Tagore started writing at a very early age of seven. Kaviguru Rabindranath Tagore was an icon of Indian culture. He was a poet, philosopher, musician, writer, and educationist.
In 1884, Tagore wrote a collection of poems Kori-o-Kamal (Sharp and Flats). He also wrote dramas - Raja-o-Rani ( King and Queen) and Visarjan (Sacrifice). In 1890, Rabindranath Tagore moved to Shilaidaha (now in Bangladesh) to look after the family estate. Between 1893 and 1900 Tagore wrote seven volumes of poetry, which included Sonar Tari (The Golden Boat) and Khanika.
In 1901, Rabindranath Tagore became the editor of the magazine Bangadarshan. In 1905, Lord Curzon decided to divide Bengal into two parts. Rabindranath Tagore strongly protested against this decision. Tagore wrote a number of national songs and attended protest meetings. He introduced the Rakhibandhan ceremony, symbolizing the underlying unity of undivided Bengal.
The second coach of the ‘Sanskriti Express’ train namely ‘Gitanjali’ exhibits his poems and songs and sings of Rabindrananth by eminent artists. Rabindranath Tagore became the first Asian to become Nobel laureate when he won Nobel Prize for his collection of poems, Gitanjali, in 1913. Two songs from his Rabindrasangit canon are now the national anthems of India and Bangladesh: the Jana Gana Mana and the Amar Shonar Bangla. 1n 1921, Rabindranath Tagore established Viswabharati University. He gave all his money from Nobel Prize and royalty money from his books to this University. Tagore was not only a creative genius he was quite knowledgeable of Western culture, especially Western poetry and science too. In 1940, Oxford University arranged a special ceremony to honour the poet with ‘Doctorate of Literature’.
The third coach of the train, namely ‘Muktodhara’ exhibits Rabindra Literature, prose, essays, novels, plays and dance dramas-creations & modifications by the poet, Tagore as performer-songs and recitation by him with photographs.
The fourth ‘Chitrarekha’ coach depicts paintings of Tagore with description like, painting from childhood and teenage, portraits, natural stills, landscape, masks, sketches, illustrations and self portraits. In this coach there are also paintings by other renowned artists alike Sri Nadalal Bose, Abanindranath Tagore, Gaganendrananth Tagore, Binod Behari, Ramkinker Bej, Sunayani Devi and Sudhir Khastagir.
The fifth coach namely, ‘Sesh Katha’ is depicting the photographs of Tagore’s last journey and the last days of his life as described by his near and dear ones, poems written during his last days. Kaviguru Rabindranath Tagore passed away on August 7, 1941 in his ancestral home in Calcutta. This coach also has a section called ‘Smaranika’ which is an exhibition and sale of handicrafts from Santiniketan, photo print & handwriting of Rabindranath Tagore, vatika depicting history and indianisation by the poet, ceramic pots and ornaments, gift cards printed by the Committee on Heritage & Culture and books by Rabindrananth Tagore in Bengali and other translated languages.
During its one year’s journey, ‘Sanskriti Express’ will be covering around 100 railways stations to disseminate the Art and Literature of Kaviguru throughout the country.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. New areas of India - China cooperation have emerged in food grain storage sector following the recent visit of an official delegation led by Prof KV Thomas, Minister of State for Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution to China from 7th to 11th June, 2010. Briefing media persons here today, Prof. Thomas said that a team of technical experts and construction engineers from FCI and CWC and some State Agencies will visit China to further study the modern storage construction and preservation methods used for foodgrain storage.
A Government of India delegation led by Prof K.V Thomas, Hon’ble Minister of State for Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution visited China between 7th – 11th June, 2010 to study modern foodgrain storage facilities in China, its applicability in India for large scale foodgrain storage and to explore areas of cooperation in this sector. The other members of the delegation were Shri Siraj Hussain, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, Food Corporation of India; Shri Naveen Prakash, Joint Secretary in the Department of Food & Public Distribution; Shri BB Pattanaik, Managing Director, Central Warehousing Corporation and Shri B Ashok, Private Secretary to the Minister.
The delegation met officials of the State Administration of Grain which is the main agency for coordinating procurement and storage of foodgrains in China. The delegation also visited the Academy of State Administration of Grain which specializes in grain quality control and research and is the apex grain testing laboratory in China. The Hon’ble Minister also met Chinese Vice Minister of Agriculture, Mr Niu Dun, and discussed matters of mutual importance. The delegation also made field visits to modern foodgrain storage facilites at Dalian port, Shanghai and Guangzhou and also visited the Dalian Commodity Exchange. During these field visits, the members of the delegation witnessed modern technology being used for silos and flat-type warehouses with climate-control and mechanized handling and interacted with field officials on the storage, temperature control and preservation techniques being employed.
During the discussions with Chinese officials, it was decided that a team of technical experts and construction engineers from FCI and CWC and some State Agencies will visit China to further study the modern storage construction and preservation methods used for foodgrain storage. Similarly, a group of technical experts from China will be invited to visit India during October/November 2010 to visit storage facilities in this country and interact with the officials of FCI/CWC.
Under the 7-Year Guarantee Scheme of the Government, about 127 lakh tonnes of additional storage capacity is to be created in various parts of the country in addition to 50 lakh tonnes in DCP States. Parts of these new facilities will be created in the form of silos and temperature-controlled warehouses.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Government has decided to include sericulture and allied activities in Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to be eligible for funding under RKVY. It will cover sericulture up to the stage of cocoon production along with extension system for cocoon production and silk yarn production in agri-enterprise up to the marketing.
The benefits of RKVY can now be availed for improvement of sericulture extension system, enhancement of soil health development of rain fed sericulture and for integrated pest management. The benefits available will be for improving silkworm seeds base and for mechanization of the sector. The decision will help provide support for development of market infrastructure and promotion of Seri enterprise. Projects can be taken up to support non-farm activities and special schemes can be sanctioned to beneficiaries of land reforms such as marginal and small farmers etc. to maximize return to the sericulture farmer.
Giving his views on this important decision, Thiru. Dayanidhi Maran, Union Minister for Textiles, said that extension of the benefit is likely to give a significant boost to the sericulture activities, which was witnessing a declining trend for the last few years in the absence of attractive price and adequate incentive support system. The Government of India is in the process of formulating the National Fibre Policy in which the sericulture and Silk sector has been recognized as a very important component for growth of the natural fibre sector. Production of raw silk in the country needs to be launched on a higher growth projectile and the inclusion of this sector in RKVY has provided the much needed impetus in this direction, the Minister added. This will provide a major thrust for modernizing and strengthening the sector as the infusion of funds will help the sector through area expansion and productivity enhancement. Thiru Maran urged the State Government to prepare projects and avail maximum benefits from the scheme for production of high-quality silk which would consolidate India’s position in the international market.
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) was introduced during XI Plan as an Additional Central Assistance Scheme to incentivize the States to draw up plans for Agriculture and Allied sectors to supplement state specific strategies including special schemes for beneficiaries of land reforms. The objective of the scheme is to promote public investment in agriculture and allied sectors.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. The majority of known risk factors for heart attack disease are modifiable by specific preventive measures said Dr KK Aggarwal, President Heart Care Foundation of India.
Nine potentially modifiable factors: include smoking, dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, abdominal obesity, psychosocial factors, daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, regular alcohol consumption, and regular physical activity. These account for over 90 percent of the population attributable risk of a first heart attack.
In addition, aspirin is recommended for primary prevention of heart disease for men and women whose 10-year risk of a first heart attack event is 6 percent or greater. Smoking cessation reduces the risk of both heart attack and stroke. One year after quitting, the risk of heart attack and death from heart disease is reduced by one-half, and after several years begins to approach that of nonsmokers.
A number of observational studies have shown a strong inverse relationship between leisure time activity and decreased risks of CVD. Walking 80 minutes in a day and whenever possible with a speed of 80 steps per minute are the current recommendations.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. National Horticulture Board (NHB) provides back-ended capital investment subsidy to the eligible organizations for creation/modernization/expansion of cold storage/Controlled Atmosphere Storage @ 25% of the project cost. A total number of 2221 cold storages with capacity of 92.23 lakh MT have been approved so far with eligible subsidy of Rs. 614.86 crore.
Under National Horticulture Mission (NHM) scheme, financial assistance is provided for the development of post harvest management including for cold storages and cold chain component. Subsidy @ 40% (for general areas) and 55% (for hilly and tribal areas) of capital cost of the project is available for both public and private sector enterprises. The subsidy for the private sector is credit linked and back-ended.
Under the Technology Mission for North East (TMNE) scheme, back-ended capital investment subsidy is provided for creation/modernization/expansion of cold storages @ 25% of the project cost. For North Eastern Region, the subsidy is 33.33% of the project cost with a cost ceiling of Rs. 2.00 crore for 5000 MT.
Ministry of Food Processing Industries provides assistance for development of integrated cold chain and preservation infrastructure facilities from the farm gate to the consumer. Pre-cooling facilities at production sites and reefer vans are assisted under this scheme. Financial assistance @ 50% of the total cost of plant and machinery and technical civil works in general areas and 75% for North Eastern region and difficult areas (Sikkim, J&K, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand) subject to a maximum of Rs. 10 crore is provided under the scheme.
Firdaus Khan
New Delhi. Persistent acidity is usually due to reflux of acid from the stomach into the food pipe. Mild cases of acidity reflux can usually be managed with lifestyle and dietary modifications along with antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors.
However, patients in whom lifestyle management together with empirical treatment is unsuccessful or those who have symptoms suggestive of complicated diseases should undergo endoscopy to rule out cancer of the food pipe, a condition linked with persistent acidity. This was stated by Dr KK Aggarwal, President Heart Care Foundation of India.
He said that symptoms that may suggest complicated disease include loss of appetite, loss of weight, and difficulty in swallowing food, bleeding and signs of systemic illness. Lifestyle changes for reflux involve elevation of head and of the body, avoidance of food before sleep and avoidance of food which makes the food pipe valve lax. Examples of such foods include fatty food, chocolates, peppermint and excessive intake of alcohol.
Star News Agency
New Delhi. Southwest monsoon has further advanced into some more parts of Konkan & Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada, Vidarbha, most parts of Telangana, some parts of Chhattisgarh, remaining part of Coastal Andhra Pradesh, some more parts of Orissa and some more parts of Gangetic west Bengal. Condition are favorable for further advance of southwest monsoon into remaining parts of central Arabian Sea, some parts of north Arabian Sea and south Gujarat, Maharashtra, of Madhya Pradesh, f Chhattisgarh, Orissa and West Bengal and some parts of Jharkhand and Bihar.
Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) Guidance states that Monsoon flow over Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify during next 2-3 days. The western disturbance will affect western Himalayan region and adjoining plains during next 3-4 days.
A major feature of weather forecast for next 3 days as per midday bulletin of India Meteorological department suggests widespread rain/thundershowers would occur over Kerala, Lakshadweep, Coastal Karnataka and Konkan & Goa. Fairly widespread rain/thundershowers would occur over Interior Karnataka, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, West Bengal & Sikkim and northeastern states and scattered over Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, Vidarbha, Bihar, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. Scattered rain/thundershowers would occur over Jammu & Kashmir and isolated over Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand during next 48 hours and increase thereafter. Isolated dust storm/thunderstorms may occur over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Rainfall activity would increase over Uttar Pradesh after 48 hours. Isolated rain/thundershowers would occur over Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh during next 24 hours and increase thereafter.
Maximum temperature will increase by about 1-2°C over parts of northwest and Central India during next 48 hours.
