Tuesday, 1 October 2013

Subsea earthquake off Russia’s Far East



A 6.7 magnitude earthquake has been registered in the Sea of Okhotsk, 150km off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. No tsunami warning was issued, and there have been no reports of damage or casualties.




US Government shuts down

1102013

US Government shuts down
The US government on Tuesday shut down the first time since 1995-96 as the Republican and the Democrats failed to reach an agreement on spending and budget mainly due to their differences over the healthcare reforms, which is popular as Obamacare. 
With neither side blinking, despite last minute hectic efforts from both side, the White House immediately ordered the federal government agencies to begin shutting down, furloughing thousands of workers and curtailing some services for the first time in nearly 18 years.
“Congress has not fulfilled its responsibility. It has failed to pass a budget and, as a result, much of our government must now shut down until Congress funds it again,” Obama said in a video message to the armed services shortly after the shutdown came into effect. 
“The threats to our national security have not changed, and we need you to be ready for any contingency. Ongoing military operations like our efforts in Afghanistan will continue. If you’re serving in harm’s way, we’re going to make sure you have what you need to succeed in your missions,” he said. 
“Congress has passed, and I am signing into law, legislation to make sure you get your paychecks on time. And we’ll continue working to address any impact this shutdown has on you and your families,” Obama said. 
Agencies should now execute plans for an orderly shutdown due to the absence of appropriations, the Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell said her guidance to the agencies directing them to execute their plans for an orderly shutdown of the Federal government. 
“We urge Congress to act quickly to pass a Continuing Resolution to provide a short-term bridge that ensures sufficient time to pass a budget for the remainder of the fiscal year, and to restore the operation of critical public services and programs that will be impacted by a lapse in appropriations,” the guidance said.
Republicans appeasing ‘extremists’ on shutdown: Obama
US President Barack Obama has accused Republicans of pandering to the “extreme right wing” of their party and holding Americans hostage in a budget dispute threatening to shutter the government. 
Just over six hours before federal services grind to a halt and hundreds of thousands of federal workers are furloughed, Obama on Monday said time was running out for a last-minute compromise. Republicans in the House of Representatives are seeking to force Obama to delay or defund his signature health insurance reform law in return for funding government operations. 
They are using a similar tactic as Obama asks Congress to raise the USD 16.7 trillion US debt ceiling. If no deal is reached, the United States may begin defaulting on its debts by the middle of October. 
“One faction of one party in one house of Congress in one branch of government doesn’t get to shut down the entire government just to refight the results of an election,” Obama said. 
Congress needs to keep our government open, needs to pay our bills on time, and never, ever threaten the full faith and credit of the United States of America. 
In a bid to nudge Congress to an agreement, the president made separate phone calls Monday to congressional leaders, including Republican House Speaker John Boehner, to urge them to pass a funding bill “that doesn’t include any extraneous ideological riders,” according to the White House. 
But the differences on Capitol Hill were stark, with the House late Monday voting for a third time in recent days to attach an anti-Obamacare provision to a stopgap budget measure. The Senate rejected the previous two and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said the latest change would be dead in the water as well. 
“Time is running out,” Obama said. “My hope and expectation is that in the 11th hour once again, that Congress will choose to do the right thing and that the House of Representatives in particular will choose the right thing. 
“Unfortunately, right now, House Republicans continue to tie funding of the government to ideological demands like limiting a woman’s access to contraception or delaying the Affordable Care Act, all to save face after making some impossible promises to the extreme right wing of their party.” 
Obama also warned that the imminent shutdown would have real and dramatic economic consequences for thousands of Americans and said it was not fair that people who had dug out of the worst recession in decades were again facing economic uncertainty.




Congress party behind Manmohan Singh: Sonia

1102013
Whole party behind Manmohan Singh: Sonia
Three days after Rahul Gandhi’s attack against the Ordinance on convicted lawmakers, Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Monday declared that the “whole party” stands behind Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. 
“I want to tell them (BJP) that the whole party, the whole party stands behind our Prime Minister”, thundered Sonia at a public rally in Mandya, Karnataka, in a forceful defence of Manmohan Singh after she slammed BJP for ridiculing the Congress and the Prime Minister. “They (BJP) ridicule our achievements; they make fun of our party and our Prime Minister,” Sonia said.
It was under Dr Singh that all achievements of the UPA government had been made, she said in remarks which are significant as the Opposition seized on Rahul’s public outburst against the Ordinance to say he had undermined Singh, that too when he was on an overseas trip.
Rahul’s remarks that the Ordinance was “complete nonsense” and should be “torn up and thrown away” had come under scathing attack from BJP and other opposition parties, which saw it as a public censure of Dr Singh.
“We are not afraid of the BJP; We are not afraid of any opposition party. We are not afraid of their attack. We shall continue in our path…we shall continue in our sincere effors”, Sonia said.
“….BJP divides people, we (the Congress) bound the people together”, she said.
Sonia’s assertion also came a day after BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi in a scathing attack on Rahul accused him of committing the “sin” of insulting the Prime Minister when he was abroad.
Addressing a huge rally in Delhi on Sunday — his first in the national capital as BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate — Modi also tore into the UPA alliance alleging there were “governments within the government” which was affecting the country’s overall growth and development.
After Rahul’s outburst raised a huge political storm, Gandhi had spoken over telephone to the Prime Minister, away on U.S. visit. Rahul also wrote to Dr Singh expressing his “greatest admiration” for his leadership in extremely difficult circumstances.
At the Mandya rally, the UPA chairperson said no other government has achieved so much and passed “historic bills” as the ruling alliance had done, asking the BJP why it could not do so when it was in power heading the NDA.
“….No other government has lifted millions of people out of poverty”, she said.
Thanking the people of Karnataka for landslide victory of the party in the May Assembly elections, Sonia said the State government would deliver on its pre-poll promises.
Noting the “Anna Bhagya” scheme for BPL families to provide rice at Re 1 a kg and interest free loans up to Rs two lakh for farmers and announcement about Rs 10,000 crore allocation for irrigation schemes by the Siddaramaiah government, she said: “We do what we say; we keep our promise”.
Touting key bills passed under the UPA regime, she said the land acquisition and rehabilitation act makes it mandatory for the consent of farmers before acquisition of their land.
Sonia’s rally came as thanksgiving to the electorate of Mandya and Bangalore Rural, where Congress candidates had wrested the seats from JDS in the recent Lok Sabha by-polls.




Make sure you know exactly who this shutdown is directly affecting

1102013
The White House, Washington

If the United States government shuts down tonight and our economy takes a hit, it will be because House Republicans let it happen.
Right now, there’s a bill sitting in the House that funds the government for a few more weeks. It doesn’t demand the repeal or delay of the health care law, or deny women access to birth control, or include any other failed, partisan proposals. It funds the government. That’s it. And if Republican leadership allowed a simple yes or no vote on this bill — like the Senate has — it would get enough support from members of both parties to pass.
Instead, the government that these Republicans were elected to fund will close down and that will hurt our economy. Americans across the country won’t be allowed to show up for work. Paychecks could be delayed, meaning some folks will have to cut back on groceries or maybe even not pay a few bills. Businesses will have fewer customers. Veterans won’t get services they rely on — and it will put benefits for seniors at risk.
Even though they’ve already voted over 40 times to defund or delay the health care law, this group of Republicans in Congress is so obsessed with the idea of sabotaging Obamacare that they’re willing to take the economy hostage to do it.
President Obama has said time and time again that he’s willing to work with folks on both sides of the aisle to grow our economy and even improve the health care law. But using the threat of government shutdown or defaulting on the bills our country owes is reckless and irresponsible.
In fact, shutting down the government won’t stop Obamacare. The Health Insurance Marketplace will still open for business starting tomorrow, without delay.
Washington needs to stop manufacturing crises and focus on the issues that matter: creating jobs and building a strong middle class. Taking our economy over the cliff just to score political points isn’t fair to the millions of Americans who show up every day to work and do their jobs. It’s time for Congress to do its job.
Thanks,
David
David Simas
Deputy Senior Advisor
The White House
@Simas44 




My presidency has always been about you, Naresh.

1102013
We got here in the first place because, in 2008, you built the biggest grassroots organization in the history of American politics. But we were only getting started.
Over the next few years, we worked together to pass health care reform, bring our brave troops home from Iraq, and repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. None of those things would have happened without your support.
And a little more than 11 months ago, we celebrated another victory.
I need your help today because all of the progress that has been made since 2008 has never been about what I can do for you, but what we can accomplish together.
I need partners in the Senate and House who share that focus. And tonight’s fundraising deadline is crucial.
Even though Republicans and their allies outraised and outspent Democrats last year, we came together to build an organization that could overcome all of the super PAC attack ads. Our campaign was disciplined and strategic, and we proved that a few wealthy donors couldn’t drown out the voices of millions of ordinary Americans.
This year, Democrats are being outspent again. And while we’ve shown we can overcome that, we can’t be outspent 10-to-1 and expect to win elections in 2013, 2014, and the years to come.
There’s so much more we have to do and it won’t happen without you:
Thanks,
Barack




GRAND MASTI inches toward the 100 Crore mark!!

1102013

Bags a staggering RS 95.25 in its 3 weeks so far!

Indra Kumar and Ashok Thakeria’s hugely anticipated adult comedy GRAND MASTI is definitely living up to the immense expectations, owing to its growing box office collections in its running!
Directed by Indra Kumar, the bold adult comedy opened with a staggering net RS 12.51 Crores on day 1 of its release! This made ‘Grand Masti’ the film with the 4th highest opening of the year after blockbusters Chennai Express, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Race 2, a remarkable feat for an A rated comedy.
After Week 1 of RS 67.40 Crores, and Week 2 of RS 21.65 Crores the film’s Week 3 of RS 6.20 Crores has earned the laugh riot a phenomenal tally of RS 95.25 Crores till date!!!
The hilarious laugh riot stars Riteish Deshmukh, Vivek Oberoi and Aftab Shivdasani along with 6 stunning actresses. 
In 2004, Masti set the trend of adult-comedy in Bollywood. Taking forward the legacy of this brand, Bollywood’s current hot topic of Adultery is presented once again by him in a new and refreshing light, in the much-awaited sequel – ‘Grand Masti’. This light hearted comedy is like a breath of fresh air deviating from serious cinema, taking adult-comedy many notches higher than its original flick.
Produced by Ashok Thakeria and Indra Kumar (Maruti International), Presented by Bharat Shah and distributed by Eros International Worldwide, Grand Masti is currently in theatres
– 
Shailesh Giri




JUNIOR MASTERCHEF KIDS STEP OUT OF THE KITCHEN

1102013
JUNIOR MASTERCHEF KIDS STEP OUT OF THE KITCHEN
TO VISIT ADLABS IMAGICA!

After weeks of grueling competition, Junior MasterChef contestants had a reason to rejoice! The kids were surprised by the Chefs with an experience that would bring them close to different flavours of food and at the same time pump them up with an adrenaline rush as they geared up to battle it out right till the Finale! ༯span>
For the first time, the kids were taken out of the kitchen for a fun outdoor trip to Adlabs Imagica, IndiaⳠlargest entertainment theme park at Khopoli. Chef Vikas, Chef Kunal and Chef Surjan Singh Jolly along with the entire unit ofJunior Masterchef Swaad Ke Ustaad were seen shooting a special outdoor segment at the theme park through the day. While the little contestants were thrilled to experience the rides, the Chefs were taken back into time and reminisced their childhood days. From the roller coaster – Gold Rush Express to the Magic Carousel, a merry go round, the judges and the kids ensured that they made the most of this experience and tried every ride!
With the MasterChef team around, one thing you can be sure of is that they would skip a chance to satiate their taste buds – try out the food palate offered. The Chefs and kids tasted different cuisines at Red Bonnet American Dinner to the Imagica Capital to RobertoⳠFood Coaster.
Talking about the experience, Chef Kunal said, 㔨is place reminded me of all the fun things that I have done as a child with my friends. It was really great, the contestants and all of us bonded well, we had good time together something that we have been planning for a while. The kids really brought out the child in us.䠼/i>
Sakshi who was amazed to be at the park said, ㉊had never seen such a huge park and such huge rides. We enjoyed most of the rides and would have loved to stay a little longer. It was funny to watch the Judges getting scared and screaming on the big rides!伯span>
Tune in to Junior MasterChef Swaad Ke Ustaad every Saturday and Sunday at 9.00 pm only on STAR Plus!

– 

Regards,
Swati Sharma 
Senior Account Executive 
9930423055




August core infra grows at 3.7%

1102013

August core infra grows at 3.7%


The core infrastructure grows to 3.7% (Y-O-Y) in August 2013 as compared to 3.1% (Y-O-Y) in July 2013. The combined index of Eight Core Industries stands at 154.5 in August, 2013 with a growth rate of 3.7% as compared to 6.1% in August 2012. Crude oil and Natural gas registered a growth rate of (-)1.5% and (-)16.1% respectively in the month of August 2013

   Sector wise trend in monthly production                                         (% growth)
Sector
Weight in IIP
Aug’13
July’13
Crude Oil
5.22
(-)1.5
(-)2.3
Natural Gas
1.71
(-)16.1
(-)16.1
Petroleum Refinery Products
5.94
4.9
5.1
Coal
4.38
5.5
1.2
Fertilizer
1.25
1.7
0.4
Electricity
10.32
6.7
5.2
Cement
2.41
5.5
0.8
Steel
6.68
4.3
7.0
Overall
37.90
3.7
3.1
  Source: PHD Research Bureau, compiled from the office of the economic advisor to the Govt. of India

In cumulative terms core infrastructure industries registered a growth of 2.3% during Apr-August 2013-14 as against 6.3% during the corresponding period of previous year.

    Sector wise trend in production                                                                                 (% growth)  
Sector
Weight
Apr-Aug 2013-14
Apr-Aug 2012-2013
Crude Oil
5.22
(-)1.6
(-)0.6
Natural Gas
1.71
(-)17
(-)12
Petroleum Refinery Products
5.94
4.8
25.6
Coal
4.38
0.5
7.4
Fertilizer
1.25
1.8
(-)7.9
Electricity
10.32
4.1
4.9
Cement
2.41
3.2
8.3
Steel
6.68
4.1
2.8
Overall
37.90
2.3
6.3

  Source: PHD Research Bureau, compiled from the office of the economic advisor to the Govt. of India
Electricity generation grew by 4.1% during Apr–Aug 2013-14 as against 4.9% growth during Apr–Aug 2012-13, while steel production grew by 4.1% during Apr–Aug2013-14 as against 2.8% during Apr-Aug 2012-13. The production in crude oil grew by (-)1.6% during Apr–Aug 2013-14 as compared to its growth at (-)0.6% during Apr–Aug 2012-13, whereas petroleum refinery production registered a growth of 4.8% during Apr–Aug 2013-14 as compared to 25.6% during Apr–Aug2012-13. Fertilizer production grew by 1.8% during Apr–Aug 2013-14 compared to its growth at (-) 7.9% during Apr–Aug 2012-13 and cement production grew by3.2% during Apr–Aug 2013-14 compared to its growth at 8.3% during Apr–Aug2012-13.
Trend in growth of steel, cement, electricitycoal and overall                                                (%)
Source: PHD Research Bureau, compiled from the office of the economic advisor to the Govt. of India

Warm regards,

Dr. S P Sharma
Chief Economist




India’s CAD rises to 4.9% of GDP in Q1 2013-14

1102013




India’s CAD rises to 4.9% of GDP in Q1 2013-14

India’s current account deficit (CAD) in Q1 of 2013-14 stands at US$ 21.8 billion (4.9% of GDP) as against US$ 18.1 billion (3.6% of GDP) in Q4 of 2012-13. It stands at US$ 16.9 billion (4% of GDP) during Q1 of 2012-13. The trade deficit in Q1 of 2013-14 increased owing to a rise in imports and some decline in merchandise exports. On BoP basis, merchandise exports declined by 1.5% to US$ 73.9 billion in Q1 of 2013-14 as compared with a decline of 4.8% at US$ 75.0 billion in Q1 of 2012-13.  While merchandise imports recorded an increase of 4.7% at US$ 124.4 billion in Q1 of 2013-14 as against a decline of 3.9% at US$ 118.9 billion in Q1 of 2012-13, primarily led by a steep rise in gold imports in the first two months of the quarter. Merchandise trade deficit (BoP basis) widened further to US$ 50.5 billion in Q1 of 2013-14 as compared to US$ 43.8 billion a year ago.

While growth in services exports moderated to 2.1% (US$ 36.5 billion) in Q1 of 2013-14 as compared with 6.1% (US$ 35.8 billion) in Q1 of the preceding year, imports of services registered a decline of 5.5% (US$ 19.7 billion) as against a growth of 19.3% at US$ 20.8 billion in the corresponding quarter of preceding year.

Major items of India ’s Balance of Payment                                                   US$bn)
Source: RBI, Note: P: Preliminary; PR: Partially Revised, Note: Total of subcomponents may not tally with
 aggregate due to rounding off.

Notwithstanding a net outflow in portfolio investment led by FII debt outflows, net inflows under capital and financial account (excluding changes in foreign exchange reserves) rose by 25.2% to US$ 20.5 billion in Q1 of 2013-14 from US$ 16.4 billion in Q1 of 2012-13. The rise was mainly on account of increase in FDI and loans availed by banks. While net foreign direct investment surged to US$ 6.5 billion in Q1 of 2013-14 from US$ 3.8 billion in Q1 of 2012-13, net portfolio investment registered a marginal outflow of US$ 0.2 billion as compared with an outflow of US$ 2.0 billion in Q1 of 2012-13, primarily led by the debt component of FII investment. Outflow of portfolio investment occurred essentially from the third week of May 2013 after the US Fed indicated the possible tapering of quantitative easing. On BoP basis, there was a slight drawdown in foreign exchange reserves of US$ 0.3 billion in Q1 of 2013-14 as against an accretion of US$ 0.5 billion in Q1 of 2012-13.

Warm regards,

Dr. S P Sharma
Chief Economist




When Roopal Tyagi met WWE Superstar Ryan Ryback!

1102013
It was an ecstatic moment for Roopal Tyagi aka Gunjan ofSapne Suhane Ladakpan ke when she was invited byWWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) to share the stage with wrestler Ryan Ryback recently. Ryback on his visit to Mumbai was promoting anti-bullying and addressed an audience of 175 children and their parents at St. Andrews Auditorium in Mumbai.

Roopal Tyagi who has been lending her support as Gunjan to many causes like safety of women, eve teasing, allowing jeans in colleges in smaller towns in her showSapne Suhane Ladakpan ke, took to the stage this time to speak about cyber bullying. Said the actor, “Since the advent of social media, cyber bullying has become so rampant! I have been a victim of cyber bullying myself. I can totally understand the plight of kids who probably don’t even realize that they are being bullied on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, various chat rooms etc. I am going through it right now. There are more than 100 fake IDs on my name on Twitter and Facebook. People are interacting with my fans and talking to them on my behalf, asking them to come and meet at so and so place.”

The actress believes that the best way to avoid any kind of bullying is to talk to people whom we can trust, like our elders or parents. Post the event the actor said she was over the moon to meet Ryback! “My brother and cousins are huge fans of his! They couldn’t believe that I had actually met him. I had to send them pictures to make them trust me.”
Said Ryback at the event, “The fans in India are very passionate and loyal. I can see it in their eyes when I come over. They don’t get to see the WWE superstars in person on a regular basis. We were here in 2002 for some live events. The WWE is trying to arrange for another live event here. I would love to fight here (India).”

What interesting turn will Gunjan and Rachna’s life take now?  Will Gunjan succeed in including self defense as a part of the curriculum in schools and colleges? Will Rachna get her father’s trust back? To know more, stay tuned to Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke every Monday to Friday at 7 30pm only on Zee TV!




NACE CORCON 2013: Industry forum to raise concern over Corrosion in India

1102013
CORCON_INAUGURATION_PIX_-_MR_PRAFUL_PATEL
NACE CORCON 2013
CORCON: An initiative to strengthen and protect assets and the environment from Corrosion
New Delhi, 30th September 2013: With the cost of corrosion worldwide crossing over US$ one trillion today, NACE International Gateway India Section organizes CORCON 2013, an international conference and expo on corrosion which is being held in New Delhi from September 30 to October 3. CORCON is created to create awareness of the same and put across the issues of corrosion to the government bodies.
The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Petroleum Minister Dr Veerappa Moily on Monday evening. NACE International believes that at least a third of this cost can be saved by using available practices and technologies in our routine working environments. Because like other natural hazards such as earthquakes or severe weather disturbances, corrosion can cause dangerous and expensive damage to everything from automobiles, home appliances, and drinking water systems to pipelines, bridges, and public buildings. Further costs can be reduced by incorporating corrosion prevention technologies and practices in the design stage of the asset.
Dr. Veerappa Moily, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said, “We are delighted to know that NACE International Gateway India Section (NIGIS) has hosted CORCON 2013. NIGIS has been spearheading the crusade to control corrosion in India since 1992 through its certified courses, education programes, technical talks and annual conferences. It has done a commendable work by spreading awareness and developing knowledge regarding corrosion and control through its varied activities.” Over 1000 delegates from the industry, academia and government departments are participating in this event.
NIGIS studies depicts that technological changes have provided many new ways to reduce the corrosion with the improved use of available corrosion management techniques. However, better corrosion management can be achieved using preventive strategies in non-technical and technical areas. These preventive strategies include: increase awareness of large corrosion costs and potential savings; change the misconception that nothing can be done about corrosion; change in policies, regulations, standards, and advance design practices for better corrosion management; advance life prediction management practices to increase corrosion savings through sound corrosion management; and performance assessment methods; and advance corrosion technology through research, development, and implementation.

Dr. Sameer Degan, Chairman of NACE said, “In the past corrosion issues were not taking seriously and costs due to corrosion lead to significant expenses in maintenance budgets around the globe.  As corrosion awareness grows, organisations are planning for eliminating these issues in the design stages itself, leading to a reduction of costs in the future.  Platforms like CORCON allow for problems to be discussed and ideas exchanged which leads to increase in corrosion awareness and ultimately should lead to reduction in costs due to corrosion worldwide, which currently are estimated at US& 1 trillion per annum.”
The NACE Gateway India Section hopes to run cost of corrosion study soon including case studies and experiences from major Indian Industry including large PSUs like EIL, IOCL, ONGC, GAIL, HPCL, BPCL, BHEL, NTPC, IGCAR, BARC, RCF and others.

Praful Patel, Minister of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, said,  “We are glad that such conferences are being held in India for Corrossion. Development and use of latest technology is imperative to tame corrosion and new technologies can be effectively utilized to mitigate the threat of corrosion losses at our ageing assests/installations. Research & Development activities play a vital role  in developing new technologies and it should be continous endeavor on part of industry to adopt better corrosion control &mitigation measures in order to save huge direct & indirect corrosion related expenditure.”
NACE believes that government can play a vital role by evolving a partnership with corrosion control awareness organizations and other international institutes to find out the precise cost of corrosion to the nation and also create a general awareness and understanding of the losses.
The technical program of CORCON 2013 includes symposia on key themes on the context of corrosion and its control. These includes Reinforced Concrete, Coatings and Linings, Catholic and Anodic Protection, Materials and Composites, Microbial Corrosion and Inhibitors, Corrosion Monitoring and Testing, Corrosion in Transportation, Research in Progress, Marine and Offshore Corrosion, Power Plants and Utilities Corrosion in Refinery, Petrochemical, Chemical and Fertilizer Industries, Corrosion in Military and Aerospace Systems and Facilities, Students Session and Residual Life Assessment in Industries.
NACE International is the pioneer and leader in the field of corrosion engineering and is thus recognized around the world as the premier authority for corrosion control solutions. In order to appreciate the work done by the corrosion fraternity, Corrosion Awareness Awards will be distributed on 2nd October so that the individuals and organizations are acknowledged for their contributions.
CORCON will see some of the keynote speakers from the best in the industry namely Srikant Kumar Jena, Minister of State, Chemicals and Fertlizers, BC Tripathi, GAIL, A.K.Purwaha, EIL, Mr. Sudhir Vasudeva CMD, ONGC and Mr. Tushar Jhaveri, President, NACE International.
This year’s CORCON 2013 will have over 1000 delegates from across the spectrum of all industries for the four day event. It is endorsed by US Commercial Services Department and supported by the American Chambers of Commerce. It is witnessing over 20 countries participation which gives it a truly global outlook.
About NACE International India Gateway

Established in 1992, the NACE International India Gateway with over 1100 members is the fourth largest in the world, after USA, Canada and China. The India section is part of the East Asia and Pacific Rim area which is one of the eight areas of NACE. This is the second largest area and the fastest growing area compared to North America, where the membership is very large. The profile of members in our area is that they are younger and more educated and therefore NACE looks to this area for impetus and growth worldwide. From March 1, 2013, Mr Tushar Jhaveri has taken over as President NACE International he is the first Indian to be President of NACE International.
For queries write to support@corcon.org / admin@corcon.org
For any further information please contact:

Neeraj Shorya, Team Leader, 9310333595, neeraj@impactpr.in
Sujoy Kumar Chowdhury, Manager Media, 9310333597, sujoy@impactpr.in
Parul Kohli, P R Associate 8010133598, parul@impactpr.in
Impact Public Relations Pvt. Ltd




Press Conference: 1st October, 11:30-1:00 PM

1102013
PRESS INVITE 
Press Conference: 1st October, 11:30-1:00 PM
Deputy Chairman Hall, 2nd floor, Constitution Club, New Delhi

NATIONAL TRIBUNAL – VIOLENCE AGAINST DALIT WOMEN

All India Dalit Mahila Adhikar Manch organized a National Tribunal – Violence against Dalit Women in Delhi today. The Public hearing was organized in the constitution club  where 100 survivors or relatives of survivors from various states across the country were able to depose before a jury comprising of prominent human rights activists and legal experts like Vrinda Grover, Farah Naqvi, Henri Tiphane, Dr Prasad Sirivella, Sivagami & Vimal Thorat. The cases vary from sexual harassment to rape, murder and parading naked, land grabbing and several other heinous crimes.  In many of these cases the survivors are still fighting for justice and their resilience and strength is commendable. This is just a small step in the long and arduous journey of Dalit women reclaiming their rights.
The Tribunal aims at building a concerted discourse and conversation on the caste and gender based violence and will feed into the larger campaign envisaged to end violence against Dalit women in India.
The Jury recommendations and the experiences of Dalit women survivors of violence will be placed before the media at a press conference. The objective of the engagement with the media is to ensure that voices of the women reach far and wide. It is also aimed at sensitizing the public and demand their solidarity and action for justice. [October 1 - 11:30 – 1:00 pm]
Please send your reporter and photographer to cover this event extensively.
For more information please contact : Beena @ 9958797404, Hannah @ 9810085498 & Alma 9654351329
 Kind regards,
Beena Pallical




MEDIA INVITE Aspen Institute India

1102013
Inline image 1
MEDIA INVITE
Aspen Institute India (AII)
presents
THE CEO SERIES
ьeading in the 21st Century⼯span>
A Discussion with
Mr. Rahul Bajaj
(Chairman, Bajaj Group and Former Member of Parliament)༯span>
Session Chair
Mr. Tarun Das, Founder Trustee, Aspen Institute India༯b>
Programme
Date: Thursday, October 03, 2013
Time: 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm
Venue: WWF Auditorium, 172-B, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi
Registration: 5.00 pm onwards

For more information, please contact:
Mr. Samarth Pathakࠠ +91-9811347927 ||samarth.pathak@aspenindia.org  ࠠ
  ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠦnbsp; ࠠAbout the Speakers:
Mr. Rahul Bajaj
Mr. Rahul Bajaj is recognized as one of the most successful business leaders of India. He heads the Bajaj Group of Companies, which is a market leader in a wide range of manufactured products and financial services in India and abroad. He was elected to the Upper House of the Indian Parliament, the Rajya Sabha (2006-2010), and has received many prestigious awards and recognitions, including the ᐡdma Bhushan⠢y the Government of India in 2001, the Knight in the Order of the Legion of Honour by the President of the French Republic and the Alumni Achievement Award by the Harvard Business School. He was also the President of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII – 1979-80/1999-2000), Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MCCIA) and Chairman of the Development Council for Automobiles and Allied Industries. Mr. Bajaj was appointed as the Chairman (1986-89) of the state-owned domestic carrier, Indian Airlines. Mr. Bajaj is a Member & former Chairman of the International Business Council of the World Economic Forum, Geneva and a Member of Harvard Business School’s Global Advisory Board. He is also a Member of the International Advisory Council of the Brookings Institution, Washington DC and a Member of the Executive Board of Indian School of Business. Mr. Bajaj holds an Honours Degree in Economics from the University of Delhi, a degree in Law from Bombay University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School.
༯span>Mr. Tarun Das
Tarun Das has dedicated his professional career to the development and promotion of Indian Industry. He was the Director General and Chief Executive of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) from April 1967 to May 2004 and Chief Mentor from June 2004 to October 2009. He is a member of various Government of India Committees, including the  Advisory Group for G-20, Ministry of Finance; Expert Group of the Planning Commission on Government-Industry Consultations; Working Group on Business Regulatory Framework for the 12th Five Year Plan ( 2012-2017), among others. Mr. Das is also engaged in Indian Track II Dialogues with U.S.A, Japan, China, Turkey, Israel and Singapore.ࠈe is also a Founding Trustee of Aspen Institute India, and is on the Board of Trustees of several non-profit organisations, including the Council on Energy Environment and Water; Indian Business Trust for HIV/AIDS, Public Interest Foundation and the Aspen Institute, USA.
We look forward to host a representative from your esteemed news organisation at the discussion.
Please let me know if I can provide any additional assistance for the same.༯span>
With warm regards,
Samarth Pathak
Program Executive (Communications)
Aspen Institute India
1st Floor, Thapar House 124, Janpath
New Delhi-11000




“No Clinical trial on ‘Global clinical trials’ including New Chemical Entities without proper mechanism” – Supreme Court

1102013

September 30th, New Delhi : The writ petition filed by Swasthya Adhikar Manch came up for hearing today before the bench of the Supreme Court consisting of Justice R.M Lodha and Justice Mr Singh…… This case was filed in February, 2012 and this is the seventh hearing of the case, last hearing was held on 26th July, 2013.  
In the last hearing, the Hon’ble Supreme Court had directed Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to organise a meeting of all chief Secretaries / Secretary from all states to discuss all the facets and aspects concerning legal framework for strengthening the regulation of clinical trials and other incidental matters. They had also asked the Government to take opinion of Petitioners, National Human Rights Commission and NGOs.
Today Mr. Sanjay Parikh Senior Counsel for Swasthya Adhikar Manch argued and highlighted the facts contained in the two affidavit filed by the Ministry of health and family welfare. In the additional affidavit filed by the Ministry of Health and Family Affairs it was stated that out of 475 New Chemical Entities only 17 were approved for marketing which comes to less than 4%. But in these clinical trials 2,644 persons died out of which only 80 deaths were attributed to clinical trials. Similarly, out of 11,972 SAEs, 506 alone were attributed to clinical trials. He mentioned that total 259 applications regarding NCEs / NMEs have been recommended for approval between 3rd July 2013 to 31st August 2013 out of them 162 have been approved for clinical trials by Drug controller General of India.
The Petitioners pointed that in their affidavit Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had mentioned that due to Clinical trials of New Chemical Entities/ New Molecular Entities (NCEs/NMEs) 164 deaths had occurred in the year 2010, out of which 125 alone had died on account of clinical trial of Rivoroxaben by Bayer. However, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare office memorandum dated 26.04.2011 to the Lok Sabha Secretariat a total 671 cases of death occurred in the Year 2010 out of which 89 deaths were related to clinical trial.
The above data is contradictory to Ministry of health and family welfare in which they are claiming that only 80 deaths due to clinical trials occured from year 2005 to 2012. The list of drug companies that conducted the trials included several pharmaceutical companies such Bayer, Eli Lilly, Pfizer, Sanofi Intas, Merck, Boahringer, Astrazeneca, Novartis, etc.
Counsel for Swasthya Adhikar Manch- Mr. Sanjay Parikh mentioned that the reason for so many deaths is because NCEs/ NMEs are being tested on Indian citizens without following the regulations and taking necessary precautions taking advantage of poverty and tardy implementation including corruption. It was also urged by the Counsel that the clinical trial of NCEs/ NMEs is not at all beneficial to the Country and therefore, should not be allowed.
As per the letter dated 26.04.2011 written by the Ministry to Lok Sabha Secretariat, from the year, 2005 to 2010 alone 1243 global clinical trials has been permitted.
In the other letter dated 06.06.2011 by DCGI it has been mentioned that out of 645 cases of death response has been received only in 300 cases and out of 300 in only 2 cases compensation and treatment expenses have been paid.
The Court has given 10 weeks time to the MOHFW to come out with the actual implementation of the suggestions given by State Government, NHRC, Petitioner and NGOs to strengthen the regulatory framework of clinical trials in the country.
Mr. Sanjay Parikh also represented the Bhopal Gas Peedith Mahila Udyog Sangathan (BGPMUS) and the Bhopal Gas Peedith Sangarsh Sahayog Samiti (BGPSSS) who are interveners in this case.
The Supreme Court also issued notice on an intervening application filed by Swasthya Adhikar Manch based on the 72nd Parliamentary standing Committee on Health and Family welfare report dated 30th August 2013 where in it has been recommended that action should be taken against PATH, State Government of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, ICMR, and other Government officials including Drug controller General of India. In the said case HPV vaccine was given to 14,091 girls in Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh and 10,686 girls in Vadodra, Gujarat. These girls were between age group of 10-14, of which 7 girls died due to these illegal vaccine trials.
The Court appreciated Mr. Sanjay Parikh, Senior Counsel and Swasthya Adhikar Manchfor bringing to notice the fact that Indian citizens are being exploited by multinational drug companies and without proper regulatory framework clinical trials are happening in the country. The next hearing is scheduled after two weeks.
Amulya Nidhi (9425311547), Chinmay Mishra (9893278855) - SAM N.D. Jayaprakash (9968014630) – BGPSSS, Abdul Jabbar  (9406511720) – BGPMUS
– 
===============================================
National Alliance of People’s MovementsNational Office : 6/6, Jangpura B, Mathura Road, New Delhi 110014
Phone : 011 26241167 / 24354737 Mobile : 09818905316
Web : www.napm-india.org




1102013
FORTHCOMING EVENTS – October 2013
LECTURE:
8th October, 2013, 6:30 pmSeminar Hall 3, Kamla Devi Block
 India International Centre
Max Mueller Road, New Delhi

  
DANCE OF BHAKTI:
Bhakti as a Foundation of Indian Experience
by
Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami, Vrindavan
A member of an eminent family of spiritual leaders and scholars at Sri Radharamana Mandir, Vrindaban. Toured extensively to participate in conferences on philosophy and religion and lecture in major universities around the world.  Connected with several important international peace and environmental movements and this work has taken him from Helsinki to Nairobi, from Beijing to New York. 
The lecture is part of the monthly series on
MAJOR SCHOOLS OF INDIAN PHILOSOPHY
Their impact on India’s Civilizational Heritage and Contemporary Relevance
organized and in collaboration with the India International Centre

The talk series will explore some of the important philosophical traditions and the impact they have had on the Indian Mind. We hope to help cultivate a deeper understanding of India’s civilizational heritage in a manner that is accessible to a lay person. To start with we plan to look at Sāmkhya, Yoga, Nyāya, Vaiśeşika, Pūrva, Mīmāmsa and Uttara Mīmāmsa that advanced Vedic ideas & philosophies. In time we hope to look at the philosophies of The Mahābhārata, Śankara/Rāmānuja, Buddhism/Jainism, Ramakriṣhṇa/Vivekānanda and the four yogas (Karma, Bhakti, Raja, Hatha) etc.

FILM:
FILMS ON SPIRITUALITY & FAITH
a series of monthly screenings

in collaboration with the India International Centre
————–  
10th October, 2013, 6:30 pm
Auditorium, India International Centre
Max Mueller Road, New Delhi – 110003


NO GREATER LOVE

A film directed by Michael Whyte, 
105 minutes

  •   Award of Excellence, Canada International Film Festival, 2010
  •  Audience Award, Best Feature, Britspotting Film Festival, 2009
  •  Grand Prize, International Festival of Cinema and Religion, 2010
  •  Official Selection, Edinburgh International Film Festival, 2009
A highly acclaimed, multiple award winning documentary, this film is an account of the life inside the Monastery of the Most Holy Trinity in London’s Nottinghill. The film offers a unique insight into the closed world of the nuns of the monastery wherein each of the modern world’s material necessity is rejected. The interviews of the nuns tell a tale of their faiths, their moments of doubt, their beliefs in prayers and their lives.
“Thoughtful, Poignant, and Humbling.”

-The Independent

CONVERSATION:
27th October, 2013, 2:00pm
Seminar Hall 3, Kamla Devi Block
India International Centre, Max Mueller Road, New Delhi

share your experience
with
Ogyen Palmo

 
A chartered accountant by profession currently working with Deloitte, one of the top four global accounting firms, handling clients in its Audit & Assurance Department, Delhi-India.
Ms. Palmo received her education from the Central School for Tibetans and completed her B.Com. degree from Bangalore University. After graduation, she pursued chartered accountancy from the Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), which was a testing time & involved a rigorous internship of three years.

The conversation is part of the monthly series on
DIASPORA:
A Tibetan Perspective

An initiative to provide a platform to young Tibetans in exile to present and discuss their ideas and suggestions to stimulate dialogue & improve networks of the vibrant Tibetan diaspora.
an initiative of
FOUNDATION FOR UNIVERSAL RESPONSIBILITY OF HH THE DALAI LAMA
and
EMPOWERING THE VISION
in collaboration with
INDIA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE


BUDDHIST TEACHINGS:
8th (Fri) to 12th (Tue) November, 2013, 6:30pm – 8:00 pm
Casuarina Hall
India Habitat Centre
Lodhi Road, New Delhi – 110003

SAMSARA AND NIRVANA
by
Ven. Geshe Lhakdor 

  
 Ven. Geshe Lhakdor has served His Holiness the Dalai Lama as his translator and religious assistant since 1989. In this capacity he has accompanied His Holiness to many important conferences and forums throughout the world. He has translated numerous books by His Holiness from English to Tibetan and from Tibetan to English. He is also the Director of the Central Archive of His Holiness, a member of the Advisory Board of the Institute of Tibetan Classics in Montreal, Canada, and an Honorary Professor at the University of British Columbia, Canada. He is, at present, the Director of the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives and head of Science Education Project.


in collaboration with the India Habitat Centre
Geshe Lhakdor will also be available for personal interviews and consultations on the days of the workshop by prior appointment.
BY PRIOR REGISTRATION ONLY: First-Cum-First-Served
Write to teachings@furhhdl.org with 
full name(s) & address, cell no., nationality & occupation.
What, if any Buddhist teachings have you received?
(these are not a pre-requisite)
Please allow at least a week for confirmation!

No comments:

Post a Comment

EU leaders express concern over US-China trade war  European Union have expressed concern over the intensifying trade friction between ...