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October 2012

	Dear citizens and guests of Zagreb! Just like every year, after the summer break the urban pace of life gains momentum. Our fellow citizens have returned to their daily commitments, while the number of business guests from the region and further afield is visibly growing by the day. Zagreb is again on the fast track to yet another busy autumn. > more

	Dear friends and business partners! The buzz and excitement of Zagreb's streets, an impressive programme of musical and other cultural events, and the special atmosphere that pervades the city’s squares, are all excellent motifs which draw an increasing number of tourists to our city. > more

The 10th Zagreb Film Festival A hundred films in eight programs For the 10th year in a row, a selection of the best debut films by filmmakers from all over the world will once again enthral audiences at the Zagreb Film Festival, which will take place between 14 and 21 October at several locations around the city. The festival will feature eight different programs and about 100 films, including some very special treats. > more	Back in Zagreb Mark Knopfler – the guitar virtuoso of Dire Straits! The legendary guitarist and Dire Straits frontman, Mark Knopfler, is coming to Zagreb on 5 May 2013. There is still plenty of time to purchase a ticket; however, beware, they have been on sale since September. So, if you want to be sure to hear the famous virtuoso performing live, rush to pick up your ticket and do not miss what promises to be an unforgettable music event! > more	our pick : Where to go on an autumn excursion? - Spend a sweet day at the Kraš Eco-Park : The newest sightseeing tour of the city - Sensual Zagreb : Good Vibe - A journey around the world – World on a Plate : Steve Vai at the Culture Factory - The guitar legend once again in Zagreb : British Airways - Direct flights between Zagreb and London : Disney On Ice - The party starts again in November! : The Klovićevi Dvori Gallery - A large retrospective exhibition by Vatroslav Kuliš MORE INFORMATION AT: ZAGREB TOURIST BOARD Tel: +385 1 48-14-052 / 053 e-mail: info@zagreb-touristinfo.hr www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr
The 5th Restaurant Week Eating in Zagreb is once again good and cheap Between 5 and 14 October, the 5th Restaurant Week, a very successful and popular gastronomic event, will once again lure citizens and guests of Zagreb with appealing three course menus at very affordable prices offered at selected Zagreb restaurants. > more	Star studded spectacle The St. Petersburg Festival Ballet in The Nutcracker at Lisinski Make sure not to miss The Nutcracker, the famous ballet by I. P. Tchaikovsky, which will be performed on 6 November at the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall by the star studded cast of the St. Petersburg Festival Ballet, the members of which are some of the leading ballet artists from St. Petersburg and the ballet troupe of the Ufa State Ballet. > more

The Ethnographic Museum Zagreb Praise the Hand – Lacemaking in Croatia Zagreb’s Ethnographic Museum is offering a special treat to lacemaking devotees until 4 November; the great exhibition Praise the Hand – Lacemaking in Croatia, which is dedicated to the art that has found its place on UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage.

National Policy for Entrepreneurship Needed To Provide Impetus
Entrepreneurs, industry stalwarts, celebrities discuss policy,
Social entrepreneurship, healthcare and education to play key role in development

New Delhi, Sept 29: A National Policy for Entrepreneurship that covers key areas like Access to Capital, Scalability and involvement of State Governments is needed to create 30-40 million jobs.  This was discussed at TiEcon Delhi 2012, by panel on National Policy of Entrepreneurship which being drafted by the government.

“Having innovative ideas is the first step which needs to be followed by support including capital support”, said Arun Maira, Member, Planning Commission. “The other key aspect is that of scaling up. We don’t collaborate very well among each other, we get too stuck on our ideologies and very often don’t see eye to eye. That comes in the way of scaling up,” he added.

Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who is also a member of National Innovation Council, called entrepreneurship an act of chaos, which arises out of a dream. People who fund entrepreneurs work with structures, and this gives rise to a conflict. “We are slaves to keywords such as Innovation, Capital Structures, and Scalability. A dream is not a structure. So an entrepreneur spends his time fighting his way through the structure,” he said.

Dr Saurabh Srivastava, Chairman Emeritus, The Indus Entrepreneurs Delhi NCR chapter reiterated the need for having a National Entrepreneurship Policy in place, especially as it has the potential to create 30-40 million jobs and revenues over Rs 200 billion. Encouraging entrepreneurship in 3-4 key sectors can catapult their growth aka the IT sector.

Social Entrepreneurship, which is catching the fancy of youth across the world, is challenged by lack of capital as the regular funding mechanisms like venture capital or angel investments do not work successfully. Social ventures are harder to predict, monitor and measure impact, said Professor Robert Gertner, Deputy Dean of University of Chicago Booth School of Business, speaking at session on social entrepreneurship.

The panel on Education and Skill Development chaired by Sandeep Sinha, Managing Partner, Lumis Partners, said that this industry has enormous opportunities and entrepreneurs need to get their ideas into action and run them sustainably.

“There is money to be made in this segment. Those who can manage the aspiration of the individual will be able to crack it,” Dilip Chenoy, CEO & MD, National Skills Development Corporation, emphasizing the need for handholding people through placements. “Lack of teachers and trainers is a challenge. But entrepreneurs must see the problem as an opportunity,” he said.

Harsh Chitale, CEO, HCL Infosystems, said this segment may not be amenable to rapid scaling. “The key challenge is the ability to scale profitably,” he said. “The value proposition of an enterprise in the segment is not about training individuals. It is being able to give customers the right people who are fully trained and productive from the day one,” Chitale said.

The panel discussion on Affordable Healthcare, chaired by Jasjit Mangat, Omidyar Network, showcased some of the innovative approaches taken by entrepreneurs to reach out to communities across India. It also discussed how the high-end healthcare players are making top-of-the-line healthcare affordable for those who cannot go abroad for treatment.
Amit Jain, CEO eHealthPoint, talked about the company’s operations in Punjab villages. “We run primary healthcare centres in villages that have population from 4,000 to 10,000 people. We provide tele-medical consultations, on-site diagnostic tests, generic drugs at low rates, and clean drinking water through these centres. These villagers now have access to accurate diagnosis and treatment.”

Ajay Bakshi, CEO, Max Healthcare, pointed out the need for disruptive healthcare technologies in India, as he fears that the healthcare system in India is moving towards the same expensive system that the US is now reeling under. “Don’t look at Max, GE, Philips and say this is what Indian healthcare is going to be. It’s an open field and you need to get innovative.”

Procam International announces detailed arrangements for Airtel Delhi Half Marathon 2012

New Delhi, September 26, 2012: Procam International, promoters of the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon, unveiled the Route Map for the event and outlined the medical facilities and other arrangements that will be put in place for the 31,746 participants expected to run on race day in a media conference at the J L N Stadium on Wednesday. Present on the occasion was Dr Anurag Krishna, Medical Director of the Race, Race Director Hugh Jones and Vivek B Singh, Jt. Managing Director of Procam International.

Keeping in mind the possibility of the weather being hot on September 30, is has been decided to start all the races earlier. “This year it will be warmer but it is the best time one could pick depending upon the adapted strategy and overall performance,” said Hugh Jones.

Medical Partner Max Healthcare will ensure that every participant has a safe a healthy run and have made elaborate arrangements for the same. “There will two Base Stations, including one especially for Senior Citizens, and six medical stations along the route. Seven fully equipped ambulances will be pressed into service and manning these will be 75 doctors, 50 physiotherapists and 100 plus nurses & paramedics,” stated Medical Director Anurag Krishna.

Apart from that, there will be seven doctors patrolling by two-wheelers the race route. “All the staff are well-trained and equipped. We have gave them information and training on communication and quick action,” Krishna added.

There will be one Base Camp at the Start and Finish of the Half Marathon and the Great Delhi Run, which will have between 50 to 60 beds, 1400 litres of water, 300 kgs of ice in cube form, Gatorade, 15 tables with drapes, first aid kits, medicines, relief sprays etc.

The second base camp will be at the Start/Finish of the Senior Citizens’ Run and will have around 12 beds with all of the above.

Each of the six medical stations along the route will have 300 litres of water, 150ks of ice, Gatorade, 2 tables with drapes, first aid kits, relief sprays etc.

To keep all participants sufficiently hydrated there will be 14 water stations along the route, from where around 80,000 litres of water will be distributed. These water stations will also distribute around 11,000 sachets of Gatorade to the participants. There will also be three orange stations from where oranges will be distributed, besides four cool sponge stations.

Besides these arrangements, there would be nearly sufficient Law & Order and Traffic Police on Race Day to prevent any untoward incidents. Their efforts would be supplemented by 800 private security guards and around 1000 volunteers. 

Arrangements have been made for a total of 100 Porta Pottys, from which 72 will be distributed in the holding areas at the J L N Stadium, while 28 will be stationed along the route.

Procam International has always ensured that thorough cleanup drives are conducted immediately after the event to restore the roads to the condition they were in prior to the event.

This year Procam International has appointed Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA), who specialise in waste management, to undertake this task.

All the waste from 21 km route will be collected and brought to the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where it will be segregated into dry and wet waste. The same will then be sent to the recycling plants.

All types of Plastic waste and PET bottles will be recycled into plastic granules, while paper waste of all kind will be recycled at the Muzaffarnagar Paper Mill.

There will be a deferred live telecast of the event between 7.30 am and 11.00 am on Star Plus and Doordarshan.

The Airtel Delhi Half Marathon 2012 for Elite men will start at 6.30 am, followed by the Half Marathon for Elite women at 6.35 am. The Open Half Marathon will start at 6.40 am, followed by the Wheelchair Event at 7.30am, the Senior Citizens’ Run at 7.35 am and the Great Delhi Run at 8.45 am.

For further information please contact:

      Procam International                                  Zzebra PR
       Bruno Goveas/ Deepak M. Pilankar                Animesh Biswas / Abhay Pratap Singh
       98201 85612 / 98207 98135                         9891789639 / 9818413169

JAGBIR SINGH, Eminent Hockey Olympian joins Corporate Games

                                       

JAGBIR SINGH, Eminent Hockey Olympian joins Corporate Games

 

 

Very keen interest is been shown by public sector undertakings scheduled from 22^nd-25^th November in Delhi. On directions of Mr.O.P Rawat, IAS ,SECRETARY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES ,Mr.U D Choubey ,Chairman SCOPE ,addressed all the 250  public sector undertakings in India, to encourage their employees, to participate in Corporate Games ,to ensure fitness among their employees. A conference was held in Bhabha chamber of SCOPE Building on September 25^th 2012.

Number of leading public sector representatives  such as AIR INDIA, SAIL ,ONGC, BWEL, PEC LTD. NTPC , GRSE , the Shipping Corporation of India and many more  attended the conference. Mr. OP Bhatia , CEO, Corporate Games ,addressed nodal officers sports of all the PSUs ,explaining importance of Participation in Corporate Games. He highlighted the benefits ,that it creates culture of lifelong fitness, in addition to building team spirit and will to win. Similarly far too many benefits accrue to the PSUs such as

·         social interaction among different Corporates through the medium of sports,

·         improving their brand image,

·         enhancing loyalty towards the organization and

·         Reducing absenteeism as well as reducing attrition.

 

One of the representatives of PSU mentioned that their employees are generally desk bound & are above the age of 35 years and not very fit to compete in competitive Games. Mr.Bhatia emphasized that:-

 it is not that people stop playing because they are old ,

They become old ,because they stop playing”.
Mr.Jagbir Singh , Olympian & Arjuna Awardee , reiterated this point and said that he used to train hockey team of Germany till 1997.Recently  while interacting with some of his ex-trainees ,he learnt that even parents and grand parents ,play hockey with their children and that is what keeps the nation young and fit .

More than 17 public sector undertakings have confirmed their participation in the forthcomingCorporate Games including Air India, ONGC, Bharat Petroleum Corporation of India ,BWEL ,ONGC Videsh. Public Sector Enterprises are keen to participate in  Corporate Games as middle age people can participate in these games which have been modified to suit  higher age-group people, who are weekend players. Cricket is played among the team of 8 persons and each inning is only of 10 overs with rolling substitution, Soccer & hockey are 30 minute each half with rolling substitution option etc. Organizers of Corporate games are expecting more than 60 companies to participate in these games the 2nd edition of games.

For more Info, Please contact: T     +91 11 2680 1253, M   +91 97 1874 2450, 9911781847 , +91 98 1053 0041 or email at delhi@corporate-games.com

OP Bhatia | CEO India
E     opbhatia@corporate-games.net
W   www.corporate-games.net

Delhi office:  99, Empire Plaza, MG Road, Sultanpur, New Delhi-110030, India

 

Kind regards,

OP Bhatia | CEO India
E     opbhatia@corporate-games.net
W   www.corporate-games.net

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HRISHITA BHATT ON LAKHON MEIN EK on STAR Plus

Bollywood actress Hrishita Bhatt will soon be seen on STAR Plus⠼b>Lakhon Mein Ek. The talented actress who has shared the silver screens with most of the top notch Bollywood actors will be playing a very different role in the coming episode.
Hrishita will support the role of a paralytic patient from Kolkata who gets the zeal to live again because of her husbandⳠhard work and efforts. When asked Hrishita about why she chose to play this role she said, 㗨en I came to know the story I was very touched with the love that the husband and wife had. This is very touching that someone has actually gone ahead and made the life of his soul mate so beautiful. Initially I was not ready to do this but Hadi Ali Abrar, the director of the episode convinced me to do this role. I am so glad that I am part of this story and also very happy that STAR Plus is bringing stories of such heroes out to everyone.
Catch Hrishita Bhatt in Lakhon Mein Ek on Sunday, 21st September 2012 at 11 am only on STAR Plus!
Posted 5 minutes ago by Nksagar
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Using Information and Communications Technology
Washington, D.C.—-More than half of the world’s population lives in urban areas, and countries such as India and China are in need of hundreds of additional cities to accommodate growing populations. People in many cities suffer from inadequate transportation, sub-standard buildings, lack of sanitation, and poor public safety, highlighting the need for sustainable and livable urban planning. Information and communication technology (ICT) can be a useful tool in helping cities improve their safety, cleanliness, and sustainability, according to Diana Lind, contributing author to Worldwatch Institute’s State of the World 2012: Moving Toward Sustainable Prosperity.
ICT not only contributes to sustainable urban initiatives, but also encourages more environmentally conscious consumer choices. In Singapore, for example, commuters can use mobile phones to avoid hours in traffic by accessing data mapping tools that display traffic and provide alternate travel routes. Commuters can also plan trips on public transportation and be notified of delays or changes in service.
“As cities try to become more sustainable, some municipal governments are finding out just how useful ICT can be,” said Michael Renner, Worldwatch Senior Researcher and State of the World 2012 project co-director. “Cities can be run more intelligently with the help of digital infrastructure, such as motion-sensor street lamps and energy chips in transit passes that allow people to enter a subway or bus with the simple swipe of a card.”
In many cases, cities are partnering directly with businesses to boost urban sustainability. The Dutch city of Rotterdam, for example, is working with General Electric (GE) in an effort to reach the city’s goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 50 percent compared with 1990 levels. GE will use data visualizations, smart meters, and other technologies to optimize energy efficiency and improve water management. The use of these ICTs will greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Rotterdam, which emits as much carbon dioxide as New York City, while being only a tenth of its size.
“ICT can be an excellent tool, but it is not the silver bullet solution to greening cities,” said Lind, Executive Director and Editor in Chief of Next American City, a nonprofit that promotes socially and environmentally sustainable economic growth in cities in the United States. “To be effective, ICT must be used not only in mapping problems encountered across cities, but also to find sustainable solutions to those problems.”
In Lind’s State of the World 2012 chapter, “Information and Communications Technologies Creating Livable, Equitable, and Sustainable Cities,” she highlights three ways that communities can effectively use ICT to promote sustainability:
Open access to data. Improving data access is critical to creating sustainable cities. By sharing information, it is possible to make connections among seemingly disparate variables. The Spatial Information Design Lab at Columbia University in New York used data to establish the connection between crime and poor housing, education, and health care. By analyzing data from the criminal justice system, researchers found that a disproportionate number of felons were from specific neighborhoods in large U.S. cities. Similar research may help officials target policies around education and poverty reduction in these areas, which could help in preventing crime.
Community mapping. Mapping all neighborhoods and regions of a city is vital to ensuring effective and sustainable urban planning. Kibera, the largest slum in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is home to approximately 1 million people. Yet Kibera has been excluded from city maps, discounting its thousands of residents. Recently, an independent team of researchers partnered with Kibera youth to create an interactive map of the slums. In 2009, the team succeeded in placing Kibera on official Nairobi maps, which resulted in a new project, Voice of Kibera, which helps citizens report the location of robberies or fires, and hold discussions by text message.
Community watch. ICTs can enhance community involvement and help authorities respond to local concerns. The Public Laboratory for Open Technology and Science, a grassroots-mapping community based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, uses low-tech materials, including helium balloons and digital cameras, to take aerial photos of areas that may endanger public health or be of environmental concern. These tools helped identify contaminated areas in the Gulf of Mexico after a major oil spill and an illegal dumping site in Brooklyn, New York. In addition, FixMyStreet in the United Kingdom or SeeClickFix in the United States are websites where people can report concerns, such as a burned out street light. Each problem is logged on the site, making it easier for local governments to respond to issues of importance to the community.
Using ICT helps cities achieve sustainability efficiently while connecting with local communities, to ensure that diverse perspectives are included in the city’s plans.
Worldwatch’s State of the World 2012, released in April 2012, focuses on the themes of inclusive sustainable development discussed at Rio+20, the 20-year follow-up to the historic Earth Summit of 1992, also held in Rio de Janeiro. The report presents a selection of innovative ideas and practices to achieve global environmental sustainability while meeting human needs and providing jobs and ensuring dignity for all.
Posted 15 minutes ago by Nksagar
Posted 6 minutes ago by Nksagar
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18
Naresh –
I’m only going to get to sit down to dinner with grassroots supporters on this campaign one last time.
It’s one of the most meaningful things we do, and represents exactly the kind of politics we believe in: All of us, at one table, together.
So if you’re someone who is helping to build this campaign, I want to meet you. I want to thank you in person. And I’d love to hear what’s on your mind.
If you haven’t participated in one of these before, now’s the time because this is our last opportunity to sit down together before the end of the campaign — I hope you’ll take me up on it.
Your donation of $5 or whatever you’re able to chip in will automatically enter you:
https://donate.barackobama.com/Dinner
Thanks.
Barack
P.S. — Flight and hotel are on us. All you have to do is come and eat.
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18
Take a peek into the world of fashion at Dreft Fashion Week Prague, September 2012 Prague has recently established itself as a fashion centre. This year the sees the return of an event to the Czech capital which no fashion enthusiast will want to miss. From September 17 until 23 the city of one hundred spires will turn into one giant catwalk with fashion shows, lectures on fashion and many other events taking place throughout the city during the Dreft Fashion Week.
The theme of this year´s Dreft Fashion Week is South America. Some of the leading South American fashion celebrities such as the supermodel Valerie Mazz and the Brazilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch, who will introduce his spring/summer 2013 collection only a week after its official New York fashion week launch, will be there. Prague will be the first European city where the collection will be on show. Visitors to the festival can see the designer in person on Monday, September 17 at a public lecture at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague. Valerie Mazz will share her experiences from the world of top modelling and discuss the highlights of her career in a special “Fashion Talk” event on Friday, September 21. Mazz will be on hand to answer questions from the audience.
Dreft Fashion Week will highlight the work of young designers. The winner of last year´s Dreft Black Card Competition Jindra Jansova will introduce her latest collection at a professional fashion show. The winner of this year´s competition will also be announced and given the opportunity to introduce his or her collection for the next year. Young designers will also feature at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design Fashion Show on Friday, September 21 and Young Talents Show on Saturday, September 22. The Stefanel brand will introduce its new collection that day as well.
Other highlights from the world of fashion will be on show at numerous lectures and talks throughout the city. There will be a special lecture dedicated to the history of jeans taking place on Saturday, September 22 and on the same day there will be a workshop where visitors can bring their favourite accessory or piece of clothing and decorate it with studs. The Pop-Up Store located at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design will offer a unique opportunity to buy fashion items by young designers.
The majority of the fashion shows will take place in a purpose-built tent located at the Alsovo Embankment close to the Rudolfinum Concert Hall.
The detailed programme of the individual fashion shows and accompanying events is available at: www.dreftfashionweek.cz
For more information please contact
Jitka Šnobrová
Press Department Manager
ČCCR – CzechTourism
tel.: +40 221 580 485
e-mail: snobrova@czechtourism.cz
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18
HERO INDIAN OPEN FINDS A NEW HOME IN BENGALURU
EUROPEAN TOUR WINNERS PETER HANSON, RICHIE RAMSAY AND JAMES MORRISON IN THE STARCAST
LOCAL HERO ANIRBAN LAHIRI PLAYS HIS FIRST INDIAN OPEN ON HOME TURF; GAGANJEET BHULLAR AND SHIV KAPUR ADD TO INDIAN CHALLENGE
Bengaluru, September 18, 2012: Swede Peter Hanson and Richie Ramsay of Scotland, two of the hottest players on the European Tour over the last month, headline a star-studded field for the 49th edition of the Hero Indian Open golf which ventures into Southern India for the first time in its nearly half a century history.
The oldest-running sports event in India, and one of the flagship events on the Asian Tour, the US$1.25 million Hero India Open, will also feature England’s James Morrison, another European Tour winner along with many of Asia’s leading lights.
The elite field will also include the in-form Indian stars – Bengaluru’s very own Anirban Lahiri, Gaganjeet Bhullar and Shiv Kapur among others. Lahiri, a winner on the Asian Tour this season, also made the cut and registered a hole-in-one at the British Open, while Bhullar, a three-time winner on Asian Tour, was second at the Worldwide Holdings Selangor Masters in Malaysia two weeks’ ago and won in Taipei this week.
Mr. Pawan Munjal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp Ltd said, “Hero MotoCorp has supported golf for more than 15 years now. We have seen the game grow from humble beginnings to being a major sport in India. I have always believed that we have to take big-ticket golf to other cities for the game to attract more followers in the country. And I am indeed happy that this year’s edition is being played in Bengaluru. I know that golf is very popular in the Garden City and I am sure the Hero Indian Open will go a long way in drawing more youngsters to the game.”
“This year’s field already looks very exciting with some of the top names confirming their participation, and I am sure more marquee players will be sending in their consent in the coming weeks. I do look forward to be in Bengaluru in October to savor some top-class golfing action.”
The Hero Indian Open comes into Southern India for the first time, with the event scheduled to be held here from October 18 to 21, 2012. The event, which was held for the first time in 1964, has previously been held only in National Capital Region (Delhi Golf Club, Classic Golf resort and the DLF Golf and Country Club) and the Royal Calcutta Golf Club.
Hanson, 34, and Ramsay, 29, won in successive weeks earlier this month. While Hanson sank a monstrous 35-foot eagle to win the KLM Open in a spectacular manner in the Netherlands, Ramsay won the European Masters in Switzerland. A member of the 2010 Ryder Cup team, Hanson – ranked No. 8 in Europe and No. 23 in the world – is also likely to be a crucial player for the 2012 Ryder Cup to be held in the United States in October, just three weeks before the Hero Indian Open.
Ramsay – ranked 17th in Europe and 60th in the world – is also on a hot streak. He won the European Masters and then finished second to Hanson at the KLM Open.
More Indian and international names will be announced in the coming weeks.
With Bengaluru and the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA) Golf Course having produced numerous Indian golfing stars in recent times, including former Indian Open winner, C Muniyappa (2009) and Lahiri, it is only fitting that the event travels to the Garden City. Muniyappa, who grew up and learnt his golf in Bengaluru, is on a comeback trail and is expected to make a strong showing.
Lt. General AKS Chandele (Retd.), Vice-President, Indian Golf Union said, “The Hero Indian Open is Indian golf’s signature tournament. Its history and popularity is indicative of the pride of place it enjoys in Indian golfing annals. With the growing popularity of golf in Bengaluru, it was just the right time for the tournament to come here. The Indian Golf Union is grateful to Hero MotoCorp for their continued support in sponsoring the tournament,” he further added. “We have seen a lot of big names coming for the Indian Open each year and I am sure the likes of Peter Hanson, Richie Ramsay and James Morison will add to that glitter.”
Mr. Yannick Colaco, COO, Nimbus Sport said, “Our investments in golf has been a well-thought out step towards our long term commitment to develop the commercial value of the sport in India and across Asia. In our second year of association with the Hero Indian Open, we have been able to give a new location to one of the most prestigious golf events in Asia and ensure a strong playing field. We would also like to thank Hero MotoCorp for their continued patronage to the tournament and the sport.”
Announcing the launch of the tournament Mr. Sumit Rathor, President, KGA said “We are thrilled to host the Hero Indian Open and would like to thank the IGU for giving us this opportunity. The KGA has had a rich history of playing host to some of India’s premiere golf tournaments and the Hero Indian Open will definitely be the jewel in our crown. The KGA is one of the finest courses in the country and I am confident that the pros will have great experience here.”
Mr. Mike Kerr, Chief Executive Officer of the Asian Tour, said, “We at the Asian Tour believe the prospect for the growth of professional golf in India is healthy and the quality of golfers produced by India have proven to be some of the very best in Asia. This is very much due to the strong support of great sponsors such as Hero MotoCorp and I am sure the upcoming edition of the Indian Open will set a new benchmark and take Indian golf to the next level.”
As usual, the Hero Indian Open has attracted a lot of high-profile sponsors, with out whom this tournament would never be possible at this level. The sponsors include, Hero, Incredible India, Rolex, Matthan Hotel, Ballantine’s and TaylorMade and many others are contributing to the success of the tournament and Indian golf.
About the Indian Golf Union
The Indian Golf Union is recognized by the Government of India as the National Federation for both Amateur as well as Professional Golf in India. Among the objectives of the Union is the promotion of the game of golf, select team of Golfers to represent India in International Championships, prescribe and interpret the rules of golf, assist in the layout and upkeep of Golf Courses and in maintaining a standard system of handicapping. The Indian Golf Union has over 200 Golf Course affiliated to it along with numerous State Golf Associations. The National Golf Academy of India located at Chandigarh functions directly under the Indian Golf Union and is responsible for training the coaches.
About Nimbus Sport
Nimbus Sport, a subsidiary of media conglomerate Nimbus Communications Limited, is a leading full service sports rights management and marketing company providing a complete range of solutions in sport, from on-ground to on-air. Nimbus has acquired and manages certain rights with respect to sports federations, including the Asian Cricket Council, Indian Golf Union, Indian Hockey Federation, and Singapore Cricket Association. Nimbus Sport is also a leading producer of the World Feed for LIVE sports events and has, over the last few years, produced over 4,000 hours of LIVE content for sports events.
ut the Asian Tour
As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, the Asian Tour leads the development of golf across the region, enhancing the careers of its members while maintaining a commitment to the integrity of the game. The Asian Tour, through its membership of the International Federation of PGA Tours, is the only recognised pan-Asian professional golf tour in Asia. This unique feature positions the Asian Tour at the pinnacle of professional golf in Asia; providing its events with Official World Ranking status. Tour Partners include Rolex (Official Timekeeper), Starwood Hotels and Resorts (Official Hotels and Resorts), Abacus (Official Apparel Partner), Cityneon (Official Event Overlay Partner), Inetol Headwear (Official Headwear Supplier), Singha Beer (Official Beer), BlackBerry (Official Communications Partner) and Srixon (Official Ball). The Asian Tour has offices in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Ahemdabad Tigers gang shines on day one of TGL in Kensville

 
17th September, Ahmedabad: Ahmedabad Tigers gang took the lead on day one of Touche Golf League west zone infantry round at the Kensville Golf Club in Ahmedabad today. Tigers gang shot a total nett score of 512 to finish as a leader while Kensville Underdawgs gang were 23 shots behind the leaders at the end of day. 'Tiger in the Woods' gang came third as they shot a total of 541 while Pencil Pusherz gang who participated in Pune leg last year, came fourth as they scored a total of 560. 

Patel fighters gang who have 9 players with the surname of Patel apart from Umang Shah fired 585 as a total to finish fifth while Maharaja of Swing gang returned with a card of 592 to end with sixth position.

Parthiv Mehta of the leader gang fired the best individual score as he submitted a card of 77 at the end of the day.

Gujarat Royals, Gulmohal Gladiators and Rowdy Golfers gangs have missed the cut after shooting 594, 614 and 667 respectively.

No roll back of eco decisions, no threat to Govt: Chidambaram

Indicating unleashing of more measures to boost economy, Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Monday ruled out rolling back decisions on diesel, LPG and FDI in retail and expressed confidence that the government faces no threat from allies either inside or outside.

Close on the heels of the government taking hard decisions, Chidambaram said between now and October 30 Department of Revenue, Disinvestment and SEBI would decide on steps to revitalise economy, hinting that they will be in the areas which he had talked about in his August 6 statement after he took over.

During the hour-long interaction, he touched on various issues including Vodafone tax issue, GST, Direct Taxes Code and fiscal consolidation.

"Opposition will demand a rollback. As far as I know we are not rolling back any of these decisions," he told select journalists in New Delhi.

He was asked about the demand for withdrawing the hike in the price of Rs 5.63 per litre in diesel, limiting supply of subsidised LPG to six cylinders per household in a year and allowing foreign direct investment in retail and aviation.

He said "a political government knows what is doable and what is not doable. Advisers can advise, but we have done what is doable".

Asked about stiff opposition to the decisions from UPA constituents like Trinamool and outside allies like Samajwadi Party and BSP and whether government has risked its stability, he said, "I do not think government faces any threat. Government is stable. Our allies in the government and outside will understand and continue their support to the government. We will be able to convince our allies."

"There will be a debate and exchange of views. There will be hot words, ultimately we will be able to convince our allies that what we have done is what is necessary and what is imperative to keep the economy going (and to protect it from) internal and external threats to the economy," Finance Minister said.

He referred to the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's statement that she understood the gravity of the crisis and added that nobody has questioned the soundness of the decisions.

By capping supply of subsidised LPG cylinder to six per family in a year, he said the government has altered the behaviour of others.

"People who got their 100 cylinders at subsidised rates may not go beyond 30. Behaviour would alter. And once we link LPG to Aadhar, a large number of duplication will be eliminated. These are invisible savings which are likely to come in the long run," he said.

On apprehensions about fiscal deficit target not being achieved, the Finance Minister conceded that there could be some slippage.

"Well we will be lucky if we can achieve 5.1 per cent (of GDP). There will be some slippage but how much slippage will be there will depend upon some other decisions to be taken."

Davis Cup: Yuki, Sanam complete 5-0 rout of Kiwis

Sanam Singh was splendid in his victory after Yuki Bhambri huffed and puffed to a patchy win as India completed a 5-0 rout of New Zealand in the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group I relegation play-off tie, in Chandigarh on Sunday.

With the tie already in pocket, Yuki pushed India closer to a whitewash after he struggled past Jose Statham 2-6 7-5 7-6(5) in the fourth rubber, which lasted for two hours and 41 minutes under scorching sun.

Sanam, who had to wait for his turn until the last match, closed the tie in style with a dominating 6-4 6-1 win against Artem Sitak in one hour and 17 minutes.

Sanam's win was the first straight one for India in this tie as the other matches, except the second rubber, lasted full distance.

Three wins on the first two days had already ensured that India will stay in Group I for 2013 competition. The Kiwi team will fight it out with Chinese Taipei next month to retain its place in Group I.

It's the first time since the 2005 tie against Uzbekistan that India have whitewashed an opponent in Davis Cup.

The youngsters have already been rewarded for their good show as AITA has said it will stick to them till India competes in the Asia/Ocenia Group zone.

Since Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna will not be considered for selection for close to two years, these youngsters will be India's face in the Davis Cup.

Sanam found himself in the pit several times in the first set, but managed to get out every time. He was lightening quick on the court and had the sting in his shots. The two players exchanged serves in sixth and seven games to be locked 3-3. A double fault by Sitak on a break point put Sanam ahead.

The Indian was again in danger of losing the advantage but saved three breakpoints before pocketing the set. The second set completely belonged to Sanam.

Earlier, Yuki overcame a sluggish start to set India up for a rout.

Yuki was far from convincing and it was his second come-from-behind win as he had erased a two-set deficit in the opening singles.

Yuki also battled cramps towards the end but hung on to eke out a win. Many a times he was in advantageous position but could not deliver the knockout punch. At 40-0, he was up by three break points in the 12th game of the second set, but took two more to finally draw parity.

After failing to convert his first match point in the final set, he was up 5-0 in the match tie-break, but allowed Statham to take five points on the trot to make it 5-5.

Yuki was slow off the blocks, struggling with his first serve. After committing two double faults and netting a forehand, he was facing a breakpoint in the very first game.

Yuki had his chances in game four but squandered two breakpoints. Unforced errors added to his struggle as he dropped his serve at love to hand 3-2 lead to Statham.

The youngster was even missing easy put-aways. Two more double faults coupled with unforced errors put Yuki down by another break and Statham found himself 5-2 ahead.

Yuki saved two set points before conceding the lead in 37 minutes. The Delhi lad improved slightly in the second set but still he was far from his best. The searing heat started to bother Statham as his movement slowed down.

The set went on serve for 11 games, and Statham was serving to stay. The Kiwi played his most inconsistent game of the match as three unforced errors put Yuki a point away from pushing the issue to the third set.

However, the Indian youngster, at 40-0 on Statham's serve, squandered four set points before finally converting the fifth with a forehand winner.

The double fault came to haunt Yuki again as his sixth of the match handed his rival a chance to nose ahead in the decider. He saved it with a deft drop shot but sent a forehand long to let his rival go up 3-2.

Statham was struggling to cope with the heat. His movement dropped and he was trying to keep the points short.

Yuki, too, was struggling to move as he suffered cramps, which allowed the decider to go full diatnace.

RBI cuts CRR by 0.25 pc, releases Rs 17,000 cr liquidity

Taking a cautious stance, the Reserve Bank on Monday cut CRR by 0.25 percent - the percentage of deposits banks keep with central bank - but refrained from reducing lending rates in view high inflation.

The RBI decision, which comes days after a slew of measures taken by the government to push growth, will release Rs 17,000 crore of primary liquidity into the system.

The liquidity infusion, RBI said, would ensure adequate flow of credit to productive sectors of the economy.

Following the cut, CRR will come down to 4.5 percent while the repo rate, at which the central bank lends to the banks, would remain unchanged at 8 percent.

The reverse repo, at which it absorbs excess liquidity through borrowings from banks, remains at 7 percent.

"As inflationary tendencies have persisted, the primary focus of monetary policy remains the containment of inflation and anchoring of inflation expectations," RBI Governor D Subbarao said while announcing the mid-quarter review of the monetary policy.

The wholesale price-based inflation for August moved up to 7.55 percent from 6.87 percent in the previous month.

The RBI said the CRR cut would be effective from 22^nd September.

The moderation in CRR rate is likely to goad banks to bring down their lending rates, which will improve investments and help growth.

Commenting on RBI's action, State Bank of India (SBI) Chairman Pratip Chaudhuri said the bank will review its rates in the light of policy action. The asset liability committee of the bank is expected to meet soon to take a view on rate revision.

"It is a very positive move, as a mid-term policy it is very significant. I think the RBI has given a clear signal that they are willing to respond and that they have taken note of the signs of deceleration in economy," Chaudhuri said on Monday.

Noting that growth continues to be weak amidst a negative investment climate, the RBI policy review said that the recent reform measures undertaken by the Government have started to reverse sentiments.

Among other decisions, Government hiked the regulated diesel prices by over Rs 5 per litre, which satisfies the RBI's long standing demand for containing fiscal deficit while also liberalising foreign holding norms in a string of sectors.

RBI said the measures on diesel prices and LPG usage will hurt inflation in the short term, but the steps are a significant achievement as they will strengthen macroeconomic fundamentals.

It also noted, with concern, that the rationalisation of cooking gas prices will not have much impact on subsidies as the pass-through to administered prices remains incomplete.

In spite of the recent fiscal measures, RBI blamed the high fiscal and current deficits as the factors preventing it from cutting rates.

However, sounding less hawkish, it said, "The stance of monetary policy will be conditioned by careful and continuous monitoring of the evolving growth-inflation dynamic, management of liquidity conditions to ensure adequate flow of credit to productive sectors and appropriate responses to the shocks emerging from external developments."

For the moment inflationary pressures both at wholesale and retails levels are still strong, it said.

"Containing inflationary pressures and lowering inflation expectations warrant maintaining the momentum of recent policy actions to step up investment, alleviate supply constraints, and improve productivity," RBI said.

RBI also expressed concern over the recent easing of liquidity globally, saying it will lead to commodity prices spiking up which in turn will be detrimental for inflation management. 

Following are the highlights of the mid-quarter monetary policy review announced by the Reserve Bank on Monday:

* Cash Reserve Ratio cut by 0.25 percent at 4.5 percent

* Repo and reverse repo rates kept unchanged at 8% and 7%

* CRR cut to inject Rs 17,000 crore into banking system

* Government's recent reform initiatives to result in
favourable growth-inflation dynamics

* Inflation remains a challenge; growth risks have
increased

* Diesel price hike, subsidised LPG cap to put pressure
on inflation

* Economic activity in July-September quarter to remain
subdued

* Sustainable current account deficit to depend on fiscal
consolidation.

Japan‚ China islands dispute deepens

Tension between Tokyo and Beijing on the issue of disputed island in east China sea is continuing with anti japan protests taking place in China.

Japanese electronics maker Panasonic has suspended some of its operations in China after anti-Japan protesters attacked two of its factories.

The firm said its factory in Qingdao will remain shut until 18^th September. According to media reports, Canon has also suspended operations at three of its Chinese factories.

The attacks are a part of wider protests that have spread across China and hurt other firms, including Toyota.

They started after Japan said it had agreed a deal to buy a chain of disputed islands in East China Sea from their private Japanese owner.

China has maintained its sovereignty over the islands which are also claimed by Taiwan.

Govt decides to deallocate Gourangdih ABC decide fate of six more

The Government has decided to deallocate one more mine - Gourangdih ABC-- jointly given to JSW Steel and Himachal EMTA besides deduction of bank guarantees of two allottees for failing to develop mines within time.

This follows the recommendation made by Inter-Ministerial group (IMG) which is scrutinising 29 blocks awarded to the private parties out of the total 58 which were given show cause notices for delays in development and some of these find mention in CAG report.

With this, the government has approved cancellation of licenses of five coal blocks, out of a total seven recommended by the IMG so far.

"I have approved the IMG's recommendations given on Friday and will take a call on others," Coal Minister Sriprakash Jaiswal said ahead of the meeting of the panel, scheduled Monday afternoon.

The IMG, on Friday had recommended deallocation of the Gourangdih ABC mine, given jointly to JSW Steel and Himachal EMTA, in 2009.

The block has 61.54 million tonnes (MT) of extractable reserves and the coal from the mine was meant to be used for a power project.

The block finds mention in the CAG report as well. The government auditor had said the allottees of the block, located in West Bengal, might have accrued undue benefit to the tune of Rs 1,818 crore.

Earlier, on 13^th September, the government had decided to de-allocate four blocks - Bramhadih Block in Jharkhand allocated to Castron Mining Ltd in 1996, Chinora and Warora (southern part) blocks in Maharashtra given to Fieldmining and Ispat Ltd in 2003, Lalgarh (North) block in Jharkhand allotted to DOMCO Smokeless Fuels Pvt Ltd in 2005.

It had also accepted the IMG recommendations to deduct Bank Guarantee (BG) in case of Marki Mangli-II, III and IV Blocks in Maharashtra allocated to private player Shri Virangana Steels besides asking Monnet Ispat & Energy to submit BG for Utkal B2 Block in Odisha allocated it.

IMG may decide fate of six more coal blocks today

The Inter Ministerial Group (IMG) on coal blocks will meet on Monday to decide the fate of six more mines allocated to private firms that were issued notices for delaying production.

"The IMG may decide the fate of around six coal blocks in its next meeting scheduled for tomorrow," an official in the Coal Ministry said on Sunday.

Coal Scam: CBI questions Arvind Jayaswal

The CBI on Monday questioned Arvind Jayaswal, Director AMR Iron and Steel Private Limited, in connection with alleged irregularities in allocation of Bander Coal block in Maharashtra to the company.

Jayaswal has been named by the agency in its FIR in which it alleged that the company concealed and misrepresented facts that its group firms were already been allocated coal blocks and that it was financially eligible to get the block.

The agency is likely to call for questioning other directors of the company including his brother Manoj and son of Congress MP Vijay Darda, Devendra who are also accused in the case against the company, CBI sources said.

Sep

17

Ban production, trade in products contaminated with radioactive element & hazardous waste

Dr Manmohan Singh

Prime Minister

Government of India

New Delhi

September 17, 2012

Subject-Ban production, trade in products contaminated with radioactive element & hazardous waste

Sir,

This is with reference to detection of consignment of stainless steel and aluminum products contaminated with an artificial radioactive element at the Colombo harbor in the cargo which was imported from India as per the report of September 16, 2012 published in the Official Government News Portal of Sri Lanka‎. (Source:http://www.news.lk/news/sri-lanka/3149-radioactive-contaminated-cargo-detected)

I submit that the report has extremely relevance for the Indian workers who are/were involved in processing and manufacturing these stainless steel and aluminum products whose distribution has been halted in Sri Lanka.

I submit that the contaminated cargo is currently held at Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Authority (SLAEA) has stopped the release and distribution of the contaminated products. It has come to light that the cargo, imported from India contained about 125 units stainless steel and aluminum products contaminated with cobalt 60 – a radioactive element.  

I submit that Sri Lanka Customs is all set to return the consignment to India and to inform the Atomic Energy Commission of India and the International Atomic Energy Agency concerning the products. When this consignment comes back, the government must ensure complete transparency about what is done with these consignments. It must reveal how the company and the regulators have been made accountable for exposing unsuspecting Indian workers who were betrayed by both the company and the government they trust. 

I submit that it is not the first time that Indian products have been found to be contaminated with radioactive steel. 

I submit that since you also hold the Environment Ministry cabinet portfolio and are in charge of the Department of Atomic Energy, there is a logical compulsion for you to acknowledge this serious lapse and constitute a Independent Trans Disciplinary High Power Expert Committee to investigate metal scrap units, foundries and every yard of the ship-breaking industry in order to trace the workers and communities who have been exposed to radioactive radiation within India while handling these products throughout its life cycle from processing to manufacturing to packaging these radioactive contaminated steel and aluminum products.

I submit that if the finished products have radioactive hazards, one can visualize the fate of raw scrap and the workers who process the scrap. Only a bare minimum of these finished products are exported. The major portion of the recycled scrap is used in India.

I submit that there has been a news report about the incident of exposure of workers from radioactive contaminated metal scrap in the past as well. It is an open secret that huge amount of hazardous wastes, end of life products and scrap metal is coming to India in the name of it being a recyclable material. It is apprehended these are contaminated with radioactive wastes etc.

I submit that in 2009, Scrap News, a journal reported that more than 50% of the total 123 shipments of contaminated steel is from India. The 67 shipments from India were denied entry into European and US ports because of contamination of Cobalt-60 in the finished products. There were unconfirmed reports that the highly radioactive Chernobyl scrap was shipped to Asia but there isn’t any substantial evidence on that.

I submit that radioactive Co-60 is also a byproduct of nuclear reactor operations, when metal structures, such as steel rods, are exposed to neutron radiation. A tale of radioactive radiation, hazardous substances and toxic trade has consistently been brushed under the carpet in the name of secrecy.

I submit that a Hazardous waste case has been going on in the Supreme Court since 1995 because of non-cooperation from the concerned ministries. In the matter of radioactive contaminated scrap metal lack of coordination among Commerce Ministry, Steel Ministry, Environment Ministry and Department of Atomic Energy is quite manifest.  Huge amount of hazardous radioactive scrap metal is imported into India considering the cheap rates. Indian harbors and ports do not have a proper regulation on hazardous materials and are admittedly, ill-equipped to detect radioactive materials.

I submit that even earlier in 2009 lift buttons made of scrap steel which were being used by Otis elevators, that was being handled by a French firm were found to be contaminated with radioactive radiation from Indian products. Some 30 workers of theirs suffered radioactive radiation. French nuclear safety authority informed Indian Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and all other nuclear countries. There have been complaints from Russia and Sweden too.

I submit that the buttons has been traced to factories near Pune. AERB issued a letter asking all port agencies to use radioactive monitors but while French workers who suffered are identified, the Indian workers who suffered are yet to be traced. These lift buttons were contaminated with Cobalt 60, a byproduct of nuclear reactors. The radiation was measured between 1 and 3 on an International Nuclear Event Scale (INES). There are 7 levels on the INES scale; 3 incident-levels and 4 accident-levels.

I submit that the French France's Nuclear Safety Authority detected that the steel lift buttons brought from India contained traces of radioactive Cobalt 60. It had also alerted the Indian authorities about the radioactive buttons. The original complaint was from Otis firm, a French subsidiary of the US company.

I submit that the factory belonging to Mafelec company, which delivers the buttons to Otis noticed in early October, 2009. Nuclear Safety Authority classed the incident at a factory of the Mafelec firm in the east-central town of Chimilin at level two on the seven-level International Nuclear Event Scale (INES). It said that of 30 workers exposed, 20 had been exposed to doses of between one mSv (milli-Sievert) and three mSv.

I submit that the maximum permitted dose for workers in the non-nuclear sector is one mSv. Otis Elevator Company's lifts in France were traced to a foundry in Maharashtra. There is a foundry near Khopoli on the way to Pune from Mumbai called Vipras, which melted this scrap. French firm Mafelec delivered thousands of lift buttons to Otis. Otis has said it is now in the process of removing the buttons, after the Nuclear Safety Authority announced that 20 workers who handled the lift buttons had been exposed to excessive levels of radiation.

I submit that the components used by Mafelec were supplied by two Indian firms, which purchased the inputs from SKM Steels Ltd, which in turn worked with foundry Vipras Casting Foundry. Vipras was provided scrap by SKM Steels to convert into bars. Currently, it is not mandatory for Indian foundries to install radiation detectors to check scrap metals. It is noteworthy that although the factory explosions of October 2004 in the missile scrap metal imported without detection by the Bhushan Steel Ltd in Ghaziabad, UP had compelled governmental responses at the highest level both in the state and at the centre but it has been of no avail. No visible punitive action or remedial action was taken beyond routine posturing. In this case too in all likelihood it would meet the same fate. 

I submit that scrap metal and its contamination comes under the Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008, but this incident and several others in the recent past illustrate that the Rules offers no resistance to transboundary movement of hazardous and radioactive contaminated scrap materials. According to the Rules, it does not matter if contaminated "recyclable scrap metal"/hazardous waste comes without prior decontamination in the country of export although it is in manifest contempt of Supreme Court's directions in its order dated 14 October, 2003 in Writ Petition (Civil) 657 of 1995.

I submit that radioactive contamination is dealt under Radiation Atomic Energy (Safe Disposal of Radioactive Wastes) Rules, 1987 that deals with the radioactive waste, not with radioactive contaminated finished products. The framers of both the Rules were oblivious to a situation where hazardous waste (recyclable metal scrap, according to Environment Ministry) and the products made out of it would be contaminated with radioactive materials.

I submit that Hazardous Waste Rules lays down the procedure for import of hazardous waste and how it would facilitate the same by providing administrative mechanism to ensure that even Port and Customs authorities ensure compliance when hazardous waste is imported by paying lip service seeking "safe handling". After creating the loophole it says, Custom authorities would take samples as per Customs Act 1962 prior to clearing the assignments. Technical Review Committee of Ministry of Environment & Forests as noted in the Rules should now show its sense of purpose by finding out where did the radioactive materials come from in the lift buttons made of scrap steel.

The case illustrates how even the new Rules remain full of loopholes. One would have been surprised, had it not been so because the Ministry defines hazardous waste as recyclable metal...and then asks agencies Customs and Atomic Energy Regulatory Board to probe the consequences of the flawed Rules. The Hazardous Waste Rules do not apply to radioactive waste as covered under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (33 of 1962) and rules made there under. Consequently, Atomic Energy (Safe Disposal of Radioactive Wastes) Rules, 1987 apply to it.

I submit that neither the Hazardous Waste Rules nor the Safe Disposal of Radioactive Wastes Rules seem to have foreseen a situation where metal scrap products are found to be contaminated with radioactive materials although while providing the definition, the Radioactive waste Rules, it says, "radioactive waste" means any waste material containing radio-nuclides in quantities or concentrations as prescribed by the competent authority by notification in the official gazette".

I submit that Safe Disposal of Radioactive Wastes Rules also provides for a "Radiological Safety Officer" who can advise the employer regarding the safe handling and disposal of radioactive wastes and on the steps necessary to ensure that the operational limits are not exceeded; to instruct the radiation workers engaged in waste disposal on the hazards of radiation and on suitable safety measures and work practices aimed at minimising exposures to radiation and contamination, and to ensure that adequate radiation surveillance is provided for all radiation workers and the environment.

I submit that neither the environment ministry nor the atomic energy ministry provides for Radiological Safety Officer in the scrap metal factories and ship breaking yards.

I submit that the labor ministries do not seem to have any role in ensuring worker's safety although International Labor Organization provides guideline to be followed. As per the Radioactive Waste Rules, Radiological Safety Officer has to carry out such tests on conditioned radioactive wastes, as specified by the competent authority; to ensure that all buildings, laboratories and plants wherein radioactive wastes will be or are likely to be handled/produced, conditioned or stored or discharged from, are designed to provide adequate safety for safe handling and disposal of radioactive waste. He has to help investigate and initiate prompt and suitable remedial measures in respect of any situation that could lead to radiation hazards; and ...to ensure that the provisions of the Radiation Protection Rules, 1971 are followed properly.

I submit that there is an urgent need to rewrite the present Rules that is more concerned about human health than hazardous waste trade. Officials who draft such Rules must be made accountable. The issue must be dealt with at a much higher level than is case now.

I submit that CAG should be requested to do an audit of radioactive radiation exposure detection preparedness at all the ports and airports. When different government complained to Government of India, the government had announced that it is putting in place radiation monitors at ports to check cargo. It merits inquiry as to whether this has indeed been done.

I submit that it is an act of grave omission on the part of Environment Ministry and its loophole ridden Rules that allow import of hazardous wastes in the name of recycling. It is also a result of an exercise in linguistic corruption while drafting the Rules that redefines hazardous waste as a recyclable metal scarp.

I submit that while unsatisfactory governmental response in matters of environmental health and workers occupational health is nothing new, what is alarming is that even the alerts by different foreign countries has failed to hammer the frozen passivity of the government. What else can justify the ongoing dismantling of end of life ships by migrant, casual workers of UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa that is evidently and admittedly contaminated with radioactive material and killer asbestos fibers.

I submit that each time such incidents occur, Radiological safety division of India's Atomic Energy Regulatory Board announces investigation into the concerns raised but either such inquiries remain incomplete or the outcome of such exercises are never made public.

The million dollar question is: Has AERB's lackadaisical approach as revealed in the Supreme Court in September 2007 in dealing with radioactive material in ships changed? It has chosen to become oblivious of for instance 1088 radioactive material containing equipments onboard Blue Lady, a contaminated ship under demolition in Alang, Bhavnagar, Gujarat.

I submit that under the new Rules from the Ministry of Environment, hazardous waste gets classified as hazardous material meant for recycling, and it would fall in the category of second hand materials. The commerce ministry allows even hazardous waste since as per the new notification a waste would be deemed as non-waste. In this way toxic waste will reincarnate itself as a reusable or recyclable product.

I submit that it is high time the government revised its existing Hazardous Waste and Radioactive Waste Rules.

I submit that the Supreme Court had taken cognizance of this problem in the hazardous wastes case wherein the role of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board was also specified. The issue of radioactive material has also been raised in the matter of the ship breaking activity on Alang beach.

I submit that earlier, when the French ships such as radioactive material laden SS Blue Lady (SS France, SS Norway) and RIKY, the Danish ship got dumped purportedly for scrap metal in India, the ship owners from developed heave a sigh of relief because they manage to escape decontamination cost but they do realize that the scrap metals would end up in their backyards as lift buttons and other steel products are made of the same contaminated secondary steel.

I submit that even the Division Bench of Justice Dr Arijit Pasayat and Justice S H Kapadia overlooked the admittedly known dangers of radioactive material in their order that gave a go ahead to dismantling of the Blue Lady, a dead French ship.

I submit that the bench granted permission for the dismantling based on the submission by Gopal Subramaniam, the then Additional Solicitor General, to the effect that the ship does not have any more radioactive material and beaching is irreversible. But contrary to the recommendations of the Technical Experts Committee on Hazardous Wastes relating to Ship-breaking, Gujarat Pollution Control Board, Gujarat Enviro Protection and Infrastructure Ltd, (GEPIL) and the ship's current owner Priya Blue Shipping Pvt Ltd., the ship does contain radioactive substances at thousands of places.

In the order passed the apex court merely states, "There was also an apprehension rightly expressed by the petitioner regarding radioactive material on board the vessel Blue Lady. Therefore, an immediate inspection of the said vessel beached at Alang since 16.8.2006 was undertaken by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and by Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB). The apprehension expressed by the petitioner was right. However, as the matter stands today, AERB and GMB have certified that the said vessel Blue Lady beached in Alang no more contains any radioactive material on board the ship." I was the applicant. 

I submit that a perusal of the report of the inspection undertaken on 14 August 2007 showed that the entire inspection of 16 floors of 315 meter long ship seems to have been completed within a period of 4 hours (a commendable task no doubt) and the report states that they could detect only 12 smoke detectors containing Americium 241. Having found these 12 smoke detectors containing radioactive materials, the report concludes that the ship "now, does not contain any radioactive material on board".

In a petition to the Supreme Court, a letter sent by one Tom Haugen (who had been the Project Manager for Engineering, Delivery, Installation, Commissioning and later services and upgrades as regards Fire Detection Installation Systems on-board the Blue Lady) was brought on record. Haugen had written to Chairman of the Technical Experts Committee (by virtue of being the Secretary at the Ministry of Environment) that the fire detection system on the Blue Lady contained 5500 detection points which included 1100 ion smoke detectors that use radioactive elements composed of Americium 241.

I submit that in a separate letter to you dated 19 September 2007, Haugen has reiterated the fact about the enormity of radioactive material on the ship given that he himself supervised its installation. Countering the AERB-GMB report that that ship did not contain any radioactive material after their inspection, Haugen wrote that in most cases, the fire detection systems are not labeled or indicated in any way, as they are typically 'buried' out of sight. According to Haugen, due to the risk of hazardous radioactive exposure, they should only be handled by professionals or certified technicians. "The system and its detectors are very subtly placed and virtually completely hidden in most parts, so it is totally understandable that a non-expert team might miss it during a broader inspection of the vessel," wrote Haugen.

I submit that even though the technical experts committee had put in its 2006 report that there was no radioactive material on the ship, one of the Committee's members Dr Virendra Misra of the Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, Lucknow, had disagreed with the findings. He wrote that, "Presence of radioactive materials should be ascertained well in advance. Though it is mentioned in the report that radioactive material is not available, in my opinion there is possibility of the presence of radioactive materials due to existence of liquid level indicators and smoke detectors on the ship." This was ignored by TEC's then chairman, Prodipto Ghosh, the then Secretary, Union Ministry of Environment & Forests. Not surprisingly, the final report of the Technical Committee was signed by only Mr Ghosh. All of this is in the records of the Supreme Court.

It is clear that exposures from radioactive radiation be it in the scrap metal or hazardous trade or from nuclear plants do not get treated by paying lip-service to environmental and occupational health and safety concerns. It can be brushed under the carpet within the country but repeated incidents and complaints from countries ranging from Sri Lanka, Europe, Russia to US reveals that skeletons in the cupboards cannot be hidden for long.

I submit that the IAEA is aware that the international community has been confronting a new security threat: the risk of the malicious use of nuclear or other radioactive material, an area in which the IAEA has unique expertise. Much of its work focuses on trying to ensure that this does not happen in the first place. But within India, thus far Department of Atomic Energy appears to have failed to stop indiscriminate entry of radioactive materials or radioactive contaminated products and wastes and to take preventive steps.  

I submit that so far even IAEA does not appear to be pro-active in the matter of radioactive steel that gets produced when radioactive sources containing cobalt gets amalgamated with scrap steel such as the ones sourced from ship-breaking industry and other secondary steel production sources.

In view of the above mentioned facts, it is high time you, the government and IAEA gave up its Ostrich policy in this regard.

                                          Thanking You

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Yours Sincerely

Gopal Krishna

ToxicsWatch Alliance (TWA)

New Delhi

Phone: +91-11-2651781, Fax: +91-11-26517814

Mb: 9818089660

Web: toxiscwatch.blogspot.com