Tuesday, May 31, 2011

IOC losing 4.58 rupees per day on petrol:R S Butola

Indian Oil Corp (IOC) the prestigious Navratna PSU has achieved the 3 lakh crore rupees viz 328,744 crore rupees turnover in 2010-11 financial year. IOC Chairman R S Butola said the company posted 29.7 per cent drop in net profit for the fourth quarter ended March 31st. He said net profit in the January-March quarter stood at 3,905.16 crore rupees from 5,556.77 crore rupees a year ago.

Mr Butola informed IOC had to absorb 4,845 crore rupees of loss on fuel sales during 2010-11 fiscal after accounting for cash subsidy from the government and assistance from upstream firms .He said the company is still losing 4.58 rupees per day on petrol even after the steep 5 rupees a litre hike from 15th of this month.

Another rise in Petrol price is on the cards:Deloitte ,said Spiraling oil prices and higher inflation could hurt growth of the Indian economy, which is expected to expand nine per cent in the next fiscal, global consultancy Deloitte further adds,Noting that the country could "well experience the effects of an oil-price shock," Deloitte said that political instability in the Middle East and a payment crisis with Iran are causes for concern, rising crude prices and a more generalised inflation threaten to derail the government's plan of achieving about 9 per cent growth in the next fiscal," it said in a report released today.PTI
Media reports, IOC now has a refining capacity of 65.7 million tons, higher than 62 million tons of Reliance Industries.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Suicide bomber kills Afghan police chief

The police commander for Northern Afghanistan and two German soldiers were among six people killed on Saturday in a suicide bombing at a provincial governor's office, officials said. The attacker struck shortly after a meeting at the office regarding security in Taloqan, the capital of Takhar province, had finished.

The Taliban claimed responsibility in what was its latest example of high-profile target selection.The police chief, General Mohammed Daoud Daoud, was a key figure in Afghanistan's recent history.A former military commander of Ahmad Shah Massoud's Northern Alliance, he oversaw the siege of Kunduz, the final major battle of the US-led invasion that followed the 11th September attacks in 2001.

A former deputy interior Minister, when he was the top counter-narcotics official in Afghanistan, Daoud had accused the Taliban of profiting from the opium trade by forging an alliance with drug smugglers and taxing farmers.

He also served at one point as governor of Takhar, reportedly at the request of the British, who considered him the country's cleanest governor.The commander of NATO forces for northern Afghanistan, German general Markus Kneip, survived today's attack, suffering slight injuries, defence Minister Thomas de Maiziere, who confirmed the two fatalities, told reporters in Berlin.Three other German troops were wounded, he said. A provincial government spokesman said four Afghans, including General Daoud, were killed and that the governor Abdul Jabar Taqwa was wounded.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Yemen on to temporary truce

Yemen tribes, govt agree to temporary truce:Yemen's govt and armed tribesmen seeking President Ali Abdullah Saleh's ouster have agreed to a temporary cease-fire to allow for negotiations after five days of street clashes that killed at least 124 people, a mediator said.There were no signs of goodwill from either side however, to indicate the negotiations were being taken seriously.The head of Yemen's most powerful tribal federation called on the Republican Guard and other security forces to abandon Saleh and join protesters who have been calling on the ruler of nearly 33 years to step down. And the government issued an arrest warrant for the tribal leader.

In a letter to security forces, Sheik Sadeq al-Ahmar, head of the Hashid tribal confederation, called on the army to help "get rid of this regime and be among the makers of the change that the people are calling for."

The cease-fire and negotiations come at a critical moment in Yemen's three-month old crisis and will likely determine whether the mostly peaceful street protests calling for change give way to more battles between security forces and tribal militias like the ones that raged in the past week.The fighting broke out Monday after government forces attempted to storm al-Ahmar's compound in the heart of the capital, Sanaa.

Armed tribesmen loyal to al-Ahmar fought back, seizing a number of government buildings.The fighting then spread outside the capital, with tribesmen capturing two military posts north of Sanaa on Saturday before the sides reached a temporary cease-fire.One mediator said on Saturday the two sides will discuss terms for a withdrawal of tribal fighters from at least nine ministries they occupied during the fighting.The truce was set to expire on Saturday evening, he said, speaking on condition of anonymity. No clashes were reported on Saturday afternoon.Even as talks were supposed to get under way, however, Yemeni authorities issued an arrest warrant for al-Ahmar and other tribal leaders.Experts say the uprising's future will be determined by the number of tribes and security forces that turn against Saleh. Many already have, including al-Ahmar's Hashid confederation, to which Saleh's tribe belongs.

Some army units have also left Saleh to back the protesters, though they have not joined the fight against his forces.Al-Ahmar's letter published online and read aloud and distributed at meetings with tribal leaders called on others to leave Saleh."The enemy of all these people is Saleh, who has weighed heavily upon our people for all these years and confiscated the simplest of Yemeni citizens' rights to serve the interests of Saleh, his sons and his family," he wrote.
He called on soldiers not to "sacrifice themselves for one individual or family" and to stand with the people in choosing "change and the dream of a better future."

It remains unclear if al-Ahmar's letter will have any effect. Much of Saleh's power base is made up of childhood friends and family members he placed in high-level security posts, decreasing the chances of defection.Yemen's powerful Republican Guard, which al-Ahmar called on specifically, is commanded by one of Saleh's sons and has remained loyal to the president as other military units have defected.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Medha Patkar ends her nine-day-fast

May 28,2011-Nksagar - Sagar Media Inc:

Social activist Medha Patkar today ended her nine days fast after the Maharashtra government agreed to her demands related to slum-dwellers and rehabilitation projects.

Patkar's associate Madhuresh Kumar said the state government has issued a notification accepting all her demands. He said Mumbai Suburban District Collector Nirmal Deshmukh came up with the notification.The 56-year-old Medha Patkar was on a hunger strike since May 20 in Golibar slum area in suburban Khar, where 140 acre of land has been handed over to a private builder. She was protesting the eviction of people from slums in Golibar. Media agencies

UGC NET results to be declared on 13 June

UGC NET results to be declared on 13 June & Refund to the Qualifying students

New Delhi (27.05.2011): The University Grants Commission (UGC) today has declared that the UGC NET December 2010 exam results will be declared on 13 June 2011 and the students qualifying the same but have applied for the forthcoming NET in June 2011 will be refunded the fees.The Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) marking its protest against UGC’s lethargic approach in declaring the UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) December 2010 exam results, marched to the UGC office located at the Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi today.

The Secretary General of SIO, P.M. Salih said, “We demanded a date for the declaration of the results, to which the UGC has promised to declare the results by 13 June 2011. If the UGC fails to comply with their promise then SIO will be compelled to lead the students’ community to launch a nationwide protest against the UGC”. He further said, “It is astonishing to note the irresponsible behavior of the UGC Chairman who is currently out of country as per information from UGC office and the saggy attitude of the staff with regard to the declaration of the results.”


The declaration was informed by Dr. N.A. Kazmi, Secretary, UGC and Dr. Surender Singh, Deputy Secretary (NET), UGC to a delegation led by the P.M. Salih, Secretary General, SIO accompanied by Sharique Ansar, National Secretary, SIO.It is for the first time in the history of UGC that the commission will be refunding any money to the students that they’ve collected in the form of fees.
The UGC NET results which were scheduled to be declared in the month of April are yet to be out. After efforts to be intimated about the date of declaration of results, which proved an effort in vain, SIO decided to march to the UGC Office. SIO has submitted a memorandum to the Chairman, UGC and Minister of Human Resource Development (HRD).
The UGC NET is the basic eligibility criteria to be awarded Lectureship at the College or University level. The Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is also awarded based on the UGC NET. The delay in declaration of results keeps the future of the deserving and talented in the dark for the forthcoming academic year as throughout the country recruitments to various colleges and universities is currently under process.
Javed Zafar, Convenor and Limsir Ali, Secretary of Research Scholars’ Forum of India, students from Delhi University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jamia Hamdard, Anis ur Rehman, President, SIO Delhi and National Secretaries, SIO - Sharique Ansar, Soukath Ali & Shaikh Shoaib participated in the protest march.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Angela Merkel on a two-day visit to India

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be on a two-day visit to India from Monday. Chancellor Angela visit to strengthen ties between India and German and look forward for greater mutual co-operation in field of environment,energy,security, infrastructure,vocational skill,and high tech sector area of defense for which agreements are likely to be signed during her visit.German Ambassador Thomas Matussek told reporters in New Delhi on Friday while briefing the Media on the forthcoming visit of German Chancellor Angela Merkel , "We very much appreciate India's policy and its excellent track record in the field of non-proliferation and we acknowledge that track record.India wants to become full member in various control regimes, NSG.If it applies for its membership, we will consider its membership and take into account the Indian track record," and German move will help in high-technology trade between India and Germany and laid stress of International community worrisome about possible collaboration of parts of Pakistani security apparatus with terrorists."We are all worried about possible collaboration of parts of Pakistani security apparatus with terrorists and I think it is in the interest of Pakistani government to come clean," and further added "We believe that al Qaeda has been weakened by the death of Osama bin Laden but there still remains serious threats."

Matussek praised Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's "wise, reserved and moderate" policy on Pakistan."We very much appreciate the commitment of the Prime Minister to carry forward the dialogue process with Pakistan. We support his assessment that there is no alternative to dialogue," he said.He said German Chancellor Angela Merkel rate PM Dr Manmohan Singh the best leader for dialogue on matters concerning global dimensions.

On affairs of Afghanistan, Mr. Motussak said that Germany is in favour of long haul in the war torn country. Calling it a beginning, he said that by 2014, German forces will pull out of Afghanistan after transferring necessary skills to the people of that country. He said, he is in favour of a peaceful, prosperous and stable Afghanistan.
German 120 large size companies in India directly give employment to 173,00 persons and indirectly employs 300,00 in vicarious capacities.

India Machine Tools Show 2011. (4th IMTOS 2011)

Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc: New Delhi : India:
India Machine Tools Show 2011(4th IMTOS 2011)inauguration done and partners Government of Gujarat and Guest of honour Mr Kirit Solanki,MP,Gujarat.India Machine Toos show opens on 26 May,2011 at Pragati Maiden,New Delhi organized by K&D Group from 26 May to 29 May, 2011.

India Machine Tools Show 2011, Asia's 2nd largest International industrial Exhibition has on display Engineering, Machinery, Machine Tools, Robotics & Automation, Material Handling Equipments, Hydraulics, Pneumatics & other industrial products and technology.This will be the 4th India Machine Tools Show 2011 Industrial Exhibition that remains to be the most awaited event in the engineering field. It's primary objective is to promote and encourage well-organized expansion and development of machine tools industry.

It is a matter of pride for us that an event of this stature has been running successfully in India over the past decade and has constantly grown in size as well as improved upon quality service.

The 4th India Machine Tools Show 2011 will have over 1000 participants, both national and international are expected. We hope to surpass the record of last IMTOS more than 75,000 visitors, in 3rd India Machine Tools Show.
Other than being a successful Industrial exhibition demonstrating state of art technology India Machine Tools Show is also a medium, which can help achieve communication objectives of participants. It holds a prime position in the minds of people; the audience is respectively large in number and is specific to the industrial world. With such a captive audience we encourage greater participation from the industries to take a more pro-active role, primarily by sponsoring various spatial positions, which can highlight your corporate logo and convey your message to your advantage at the least cost.

Ferrari vrooms on Indian roads

Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc: New Delhi India
Ferrari on Thursday officially entered the Indian market with popular models such as the California, 458 Italia, 599GTB Fiorano and the latest FF at prices starting from Rs 2.2 crore onward."Till yesterday, Ferrari was present in 57 countries. Now we are in the 58th country, which is India. We should have been in India much before and we expect to be able to sell more than 100 cars in the next 2-3 years," Ferrari SpA Chief Executive Officer Amedeo Felisa told reporters in New Delhi.
The company has appointed the Shreyans Group as its official importer in India.

Bookings for the cars start on Thursday with the opening of the first dealership in the national capital.The second showroom is scheduled to open in Mumbai in the second half of 2011.The Ferrari range which will be sold in India includes the Ferrari California priced at Rs 2.2 crore, 458 Italia at Rs 2.56 crore and 599GTB Fiorano tagged at Rs 3.37 crore. All prices are ex-showroom Delhi.Ferrari's latest model the FF, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, will also be available. It carries a price tag of Rs 3.41 crore.The Shreyans Group is involved with luxury retail in India, including interests in products such as yachts, super bikes, fashion articles and jewellery, besides cars.

Panchayati Raj Ministry Advice to States/UTs on Procuring ICT Infrastructure

Panchayati Raj Ministry Advice to States/UTs on Procuring ICT Infrastructure
While going for the e-Panchayat module for grater transparency and accountability in the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has advised the States/UTs to adopt the following procedure:

(i) Formation of a dedicated State e-Panchayat Society for pooling of resources (MGNREGA, BRGF, 13th CFC, State funds etc.) and operational efficiency. For this MoA/Regulations of the Society formed in Punjab and M.P. are available at: www.panchayat.gov.in.

(ii) Recommendation of Service Procurement Model (SPM for the States lacking trained manpower to operate computers, lack maintenance services for the hardware in rural areas etc. SPM would provide H/w and trained Manpower for the transition period of 2-3 years, during which the GPs would develop internal capacity.

(iii) States having manpower can opt USOF–PC model. Under the scheme, enlisted vendors are to provide the PC on EMI basis with an initial security deposit. Accessories may also be procured at rates given in the scheme. In the case of bulk orders, vendor(s) may even establish District Level Support Centres for maintenance support during the warranty phase. GPs can return the machine to the vendor, on unsatisfactory performance or maintenance and they need not pay EMI from that month onwards. Evidently, in the USOF PC Bundling Scheme, vendors (M/s HCL Infosystem and M/s Novatium) have been selected by BSNL through a bidding process. The States should, therefore, adopt the scheme right away without re-tendering etc.

(iv) Outright purchase model is not recommended due to the problems of integrating hardware, manpower, connectivity etc. If outright purchase of H/w has to be made, it must have five years of warranty/AMC.

(v) In the event of un electrified Panchayat or Panchayats with erratic power supply laptop option may be preferred over desktop. So also, if a Secretary is incharge of several GPs.

(vi) States having power supply problem in GPs, may also consider the Rajasthan initiative of providing Solar PV Power Packs and availing GoI subsidy. Options for power back up in remote areas could be: (i) Desktops with UPS having 6-8 hours backup, (ii) Laptops with extra batteries, (iii) Solar PV cells.

These recommendations are a part of the requirements in the recently identified 12 Core Common Application Software areas where the concept of e-Panchayat will be applicable.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

6th Annual FTTH Asia Pacific Conference, New Delhi,

FTTH Installation deployed by Radius Infratel at the Commonwealth Games Village selected for Technology Showcase Visit by the 6th Annual FTTH Asia Pacific Conference, New Delhi, India.
~ The theme of the Conference ‘Fiber to Bridge the Socio-Economic Divide’ serves as confluence of ideas to ensure ‘Inclusive Growth" by connecting every community in the country with nationwide optical fiber ~
Radius Infratel’s unique, shared last mile FTTH network, NANO, is showcased to global delegates as a model of technological innovation and operator friendly open access deployment.
~ A study of Rural Last Mile Fiber Deployments in Asia (Opportunities & Obstacles) released at the Conference ~

Wednesday, May 25, 2011: Radius Infratel, India’s leading telecom infrastructure provider in the wire line domain through a converged technology platform, participated at the 6th FTTH Asia Pacific Conference at Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi today. The event was hosted by the FTTH Council Asia Pacific (The Council), which is a not-for-profit entity that aims to promote the cause of Fibre Deployment around the world. The event is supported by well renowned international companies like Ericsson, Alcatel Lucent, Cisco, Radius Infratel, 3M, Corning, Huawei, Duraline, Birla Furukawa, Sumitomo, Senko et al.

As part of the conference, a visit to a “Fibre to the Home” enabled site was organized. The FTTH Asia Pacific Council selected the FTTH Installation at the Commonwealth Games Village, New Delhi for the prestigious site visit. This solution was installed by FTTH Council’s Platinum Member, Radius Infratel. All the nearly 1100 Apartments of the Village have been connected on an Open Access FTTH Network called NANO (Neutral Access Network Operations) by Radius Infratel. Established in 2008, RIPL is India’s fastest growing and fully integrated telecom infrastructure company with qualified IP1 license. The company’s expertise in last mile connectivity right upto the customer’s door through Neutral FTTx infrastructure has been rated amongst the most optimal solutions for advanced triple-play residential and business services. RIPL is the recipient of National Telecom Awards in India for two consecutive years for its innovative services.

Speaking on the occasion of the Commonwealth Games Village site visit, Mr. Ashok Bansal, Director Radius Infratel said, “Globally, the lightning speed Broadband connectivity for Voice, Video, and Data rides on the strength of FTTH – Fibre to the Home. As a pioneer in Operator Neutral Network through our exclusive technology called NANO - Neutral Access Network Operations, we are glad that many speakers at the conference spoke about the enormous connectivity opportunity in India and how last mile access is needed for the purpose of inclusive growth, which is at the priority agenda of our government.”

The best of FTTH in the world was showcased during the site visit. Radius Infratel showcased its innovative and proprietary shared last mile solution called NANO (Neutral Access Network Operations). The shared last mile network installed is a neutral network, which is capable of catering to all service providers and all IP based services.

The network is service provider friendly too, as service providers maintain a direct commercial and network relationship with all their subscribers. An integrated network at the Village means that all building management and ICT services will run on one unified last mile. “At the Commonwealth Games Village, all service providers can connect to the residents through this shared network and do not need to install their own individual networks. This advanced network is pro-consumer as it gives them the choice to simultaneously access multiple services from multiple service providers – all on a single fibre and single ONT,” Mr. H S Singh, Director of Radius Infratel added.

The network at the Village was installed on Ericsson’s GPON platform and is being used by Airtel and MTNL to deliver triple play services. Radius Infratel is also deploying its NANO Network at various prestigious real estate developments all over India.

The two day conference and exhibition was held in line with the Council’s objective to promote growth by encouraging the use of next generation telecom methodologies. The event was inaugurated by Shri Shri Vilasrao Deshmukh Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj. The Conference was attended by eminent national and international delegates from various telecom companies from around the world. The event also had key note messages by leading professionals, policy makers, regulators and research scholars from around the world, senior functionaries from TRAI, C-DoT etc, besides senior professionals from India’s growing FTTH industry. The Conference was also addressed by worlds’ renowned Open Access Guru, Benoit Felten, who spoke on the topic: "Open Access - A Global Perspective." Mr. Felten is part of Radius Infratel’s Advisory Board.

In the past years, the annual conference has been hosted in the cities of Tokyo, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, and Seoul. India was chosen as the destination for this year’s conference as India has one of highest rates of economic growth in the world and the expansion of the telecom infrastructure is rapidly progressing by adopting the latest technologies in 3G service and optical fiber networks.

The theme of the India Conference: “Fiber to Bridge the Socio-Economic Divide” will serve as confluence of ideas to ensure ‘Inclusive Growth" by connecting every community in the country with nationwide optical fiber. The conference also covered a wide gamut of topics, including discussion on FTTH models / practices from around the world. The conference focused heavily on fiber deployment in rural areas and the various socio economic benefits arising there from.

At the Conference, a study of Rural Last Mile Fiber Deployments in Asia (Opportunities & Obstacles) was released. The study covered India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand. It also covered, in lesser detail, Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines. The study has been commissioned by the FTTH Asia Pacific Council and was conducted by Analysys Mason.

India has an ambitious plan to take high speed broadband to the villages and a lot of work has been done in this regard. It was unanimously agreed upon that the power of connectivity will bring accelerated development to India’s rural areas. In fact, many private and public sector initiatives are already underway in this regard, as is evidenced from media reports.

The speakers at the conference, from across APAC Region, shared their valuable thoughts on Technology, Architecture (Urban vs. Rural Networks), Fiber vs. Wireless, Green Technology, Public Private Participation and Emerging FTTH Business Models etc. Various Government and Regulatory officials from several countries also shared their experiences on strategies that they have adopted to give their countries the FTTx advantage.

About Radius Infratel Private Limited
Radius Infratel Private Limited (RIPL) is India’s fastest growing and fully integrated FTTH infrastructure company with qualified IP1 License. The company’s expertise in last mile connectivity right upto the customer’s door through Neutral FTTx infrastructure has been rated amongst the most optimal solutions for advanced triple-play residential and business services.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

DTCM launches new Guest Accommodation Classification Scheme

DTCM launches new Guest Accommodation Classification Scheme
Mumbai, 24th May 2011: The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Dubai Government’s tourism licensing and promotional body, today announces the launch of a new hotel classification scheme that broadens the existing system in line with the organisation’s vision to guide the emirate’s growing tourism industry.

While the hotels have been categorised under 1-5 star ratings, the new classification system added a Budget hotel category that has been kept outside the 1-5 star-rating. The new scheme also added a number of new criteria in the classification, including Resorts, Guest House, Timeshare, Youth Hostel, Self-Catering and University Campus accommodations.

Apart from these, the new classification system also include a new criteria – Accolades - that communicate the exceptional level of luxury Guest Accommodation available in the Emirate of Dubai, and identify and reward those 5 Star Hotels and Resorts, which consistently exceed expectations. Recognition is defined at two levels, Gold and Platinum.

Additionally, the scheme introduces Designators. Designators are essential tools of the new Classification Scheme, which promote the specialties offered by the destination through its Guest Accommodation Portfolio.

DTCM’s objective of the new Classification Scheme is to broaden the scope of accommodations and make it diverse, collaborative, sustainable, fair, and international, yet customised to the local environment.

In addition, stay overs have been conducted in local and international hotels, industry committees have been developed to invite feedback on the new quality standards from the industry at large, and consumers have been consulted on their expectations.

To support the successful implementation of the new Quality Standards, DTCM has invested in extensive training programmes for all Assessors, and the ongoing development of Classification Software, to automate the entire process.
The new scheme has been extensively researched and benchmarked against other international and national destinations, such as the UK, South Africa, the US, the European Hotel Stars Union, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi to name but a few.

The new system will be implemented later this year with a 12-month implementation period that will replace the existing classification system.

Launching the new Guest Accommodation Classification at the Arabian Travel Market, Majid Sager Al Marri, Director, Hotel Classification Department, said, “DTCM as the governing body for the licensing and classification of Guest Accommodation in the emirate, and in line with its vision and mission of sustained development of tourism in the emirate, has undertaken extensive research including benchmarking key local and international destinations, assessing current market offerings, identifying guest expectations, to establish both a comprehensive Guest Accommodation Framework and common Grading Standards.

“We have endeavoured to develop a scheme which supports our strategy of positioning the Emirate as a major contender within the international tourism community, both today and in the future, by creating investor opportunities, and ensuring that guest needs are well catered to. Our particular focus has been to ensure that our guests have a varied range of accommodation to choose from, can make informed choices, and that common standards ensure expectations are consistently met.”

New Guest Accommodation Classification Criteria

Hotel: A hotel is a Guest Accommodation that provides paid lodging, meals, and other services for travellers and tourists on a short-term basis.
Applicable Gradings: Budget, 1 - 5 Stars

New
Resort: A Resort is a full service, amenity rich Guest Accommodation expanding over numerous acres, which provides a destination experience to its guests. Resorts differ from hotels, due to the range of additional facilities and services provided, including F&B, sports, leisure, entertainment, and shopping.
Applicable Gradings: 3 - 5 Stars
Hotel Apartment: A Hotel Apartment shall signify a Guest Accommodation offering guests a complete self-contained sole occupancy unit consisting of studios and units with one or more bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen with cooking facilities and dining area.
Applicable Gradings: Standard, Superior, Deluxe
Guest House: A Guest House is either a converted house, etc… adapted to accommodate overnight guests; or it may be a purpose built facility. A Guest House is run as a commercial operation and is often owner-managed. It has public areas, which are for the exclusive use of the guest. The owner/ manager lives either off-site, or in a separate area within the Guest Accommodation.
Applicable Gradings: Standard, Superior, Deluxe

New
Self-Catering: A Self-Catering Guest Accommodation is a converted house, villa, apartment, studio, or similar Guest Accommodation where facilities and equipment are provided for guests to cater for themselves. The facilities should be adequate to cater for the maximum advertised number of residents the facility can accommodate. Self-Catering Guest Accommodation in Dubai can only be sold via a licensed Self-Catering Agent.
Applicable Gradings: Standard, Superior, Deluxe

New
Timeshare: A Timeshare Guest Accommodation is an arrangement for sharing the ownership of a vacation home or condominium where each of the joint purchasers may occupy the accommodation for a specified period of time. Clients are purchasing a portion of a Guest Accommodation that guarantees them an annual vacation and the opportunity to use exchange privileges with other Guest Accommodation around the world.
Applicable Gradings: If independent: Standard, Superior, Deluxe. If part of a Hotel or Resort: 3 – 5 Star.
New
Youth Hostel: A Youth Hostel is a budget oriented, sociable Guest Accommodation providing the options of Single, Double, and Family Rooms (Group Rooms, i.e. Dormitory Style, can also be offered however as Gender Specific).
Applicable Gradings: One Level – no split Gradings
New
University Campus: A University Campus Guest Accommodation can be defined as “Student dormitories or bedrooms rented (sometimes with meals) to tourists or the general public by a college or university, as follows:
- During Term Time - family & friends of registered students
- Out with Term Time – all
Applicable Gradings: One Level – no split Gradings

New
Accolades
Accolades communicate the exceptional level of luxury Guest Accommodation available in the Emirate of Dubai, and identify and reward those 5 Star Hotels and Resorts, which consistently exceed expectations. Recognition is defined at two levels, Gold and Platinum.

What is an Accolade?
An accolade is widely defined as being “an award or privilege granted as a special honour or as an acknowledgement of merit; an expression of praise or admiration”.

Designators
Designators are essential tools of the new Classification Scheme, which promote the specialties offered by the destination through its Guest Accommodation Portfolio.

What is a Designator?
A Designator is a symbol, which communicates to the consumer that a Guest Accommodation caters to one or more specific markets. This may be by virtue of specialised facilities and services, or a unique style / setting.

About Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing
DTCM is the principal authority for the development of tourism in Dubai, one of the world’s most popular destinations. Established in 1997, it is the sole licensing body for the hotel establishments and tourism-related businesses. Its supervisory role covers heritage sites, cruise terminal and convention bureau.
About DTCM India Representative Office:
The Government of Dubai, Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has had a representative office in India for over fourteen years which has been functioning as an initial contact point and query-processing centre for the Indian travel trade interested in doing business in Dubai.

The India office aims at promoting commerce and tourism, through the organization of marketing activities such as presentations, road shows, advertising, brochure distribution, direct sales meetings and media education programmes, which include familiarization visits for business and travel journalists to Dubai.

The DTCM expects to play an important role in boosting bilateral ties by promoting a widespread awareness of the opportunities Dubai has to offer in both business and tourism. The presence in Mumbai brings to 18 the total number of offices in the DTCM’s international network. * * * *
For further information, please contact:
Mr. Carl Vaz
Director – India Representative Office
Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing
1104 Arcadia, 11th Floor, NCPA Marg
Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021
Tel: +91 22 22828836 / 22828837 Fax: +91 22 22828835
Email: dtcm_in@dubaitourism.ae

Environmental Challenges in Arid Regions

First International Conference on Environmental
Challenges in Arid Regions
6 to 8 February 2012
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

The conference is organized to debate scientific
and practical research advancements in three main
areas; Air Pollution,Water Pollution and Solid
waste management.

Enquiries: ecar@kau.edu.sa
Web address: http://ecar.kau.edu.sa/Default.aspx?Site_ID=188020&lng=EN
Sponsored by: The Center of Excellence in
Environmental Studies

ROOF INDIA 2011 Exhibition opens Friday, 27 May 2011 at Mumbai

ROOF INDIA 2011 Exhibition opens next Friday, 27 May 2011 at Mumbai !!
Please visit the event during 27 - 29 May 2011 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon (E) Mumbai. Please visit www.roofindia.com for all the visiting information and also to view Exhibitors' List:Looking forward to the visit of your team at ROOF INDIA 2011 PLAN YOUR VISIT

Exhibitors List .. ( also visit www.roofindia.com )
Exhibitors / Representative Cos. / Brands
Country
Exhibit Profile
Acecad Software India
India
Structural Steel Software
Alfa Steel Building Solutions
India
Pre Engineered Buildings & Metal Roofing Systems
A-One Industries
India
Roofing Systems / PEBs
Apex Encon Projects
India
Roof Waterproofing
Artech Welders
India
Stud Welding Machines / Shear Connectors
Ashita Impex / Metrotile NZ India
Stone Coated Metal Roofing Tiles
Asons Enterprises / Corroshield
India
Roofing Fasteners
Aster Building Solutions Private Limited
India
Pre Engineered Steel Buildings
B2B Purchase
India
Publication
Bay Shield International
UAE
Roof Waterproofing
Bayer Malibu Polymers Pvt Ltd
India
Polycarbonate Roofing
Beijing Oriental Yuhong Waterproof
China
Waterproofing
Bemo Projects / Metecno India
India
Roofing & Cladding Systems / Sandwich Panels
Bitumat
Saudi Arabia
Roof Waterproofing
BituNil - Nile Waterproofing Materials Co.
India
Roof Waterproofing
Bradbury Group
India
Roof Rollforming Machinery
Buildotech
India
Publication
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Bharti Walmart- Retail &Thomas cook launch MoneyGram's Global Money transfer Service

Bharti Walmart and Bharti Retail in association with Thomas Cook India today announced the launch of MoneyGram International's global money transfer service in their stores across India. Bharti Walmart and Bharti Retail have partnered with Thomas Cook India, a Principal Agent of MoneyGram International (NYSE: MGI), to bring money transfers service to the stores. The service will be available, in over 121 easyday and 11 easyday Market and six Best Price Modern Wholesale stores, across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Jammu and Kashmir.The global money transfer service augments the value proposition of easyday, easyday Market and Best Price Modern Wholesale stores for the customers and members, by offering them a one-stop shop experience to fulfill their grocery and financial requirements.
In order to receive a money transfer,Indian nationals can show the passcode of the transaction along with valid photo-identity proof and residence address proof and as per RBI guidelines draw upto Rs.50,000 in cash immediately. Transactions above Rs.50,000 are given out in cheque. Foreign nationals can also avail of this service and as per existing regulatory policies, can withdraw cash up to equivalent of USD 2500 after producing valid Passport and Visa.

"Remittances to India make a major impact in the economic growth and financial stability of its citizens. We are pleased that together with Bharti Walmart and Bharti Retail we can offer our services at retail locations that are open long hours with a reputation for convenience, service and value," said Mr. Dan O'Malley, Executive Vice President of MoneyGram International. "Further, MoneyGram is pleased to extend its U.S. Walmart relationship internationally with Bharti Walmart and we look to continue to introduce our services to people around the globe through this business relationship."

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Raj Jain, Managing Director and CEO, Bharti Walmart Pvt. Ltd. said, "At Bharti Walmart, it is our constant endeavor to help people save money so they can live better, and the launch of convenient money transfer service through our Best Price Modern Wholesale cash-and-carry stores brings us one step closer to achieving that."

Mr. Dan O'Malley,Executive Vice President of Moneygram International said "Remittances to India make a major impact in the economic growth and financial stability of its citizens.We are pleased that together with Bharti Walmart and Bharati Retail we can offer our services at retail locations that are open long hours with reputation for convenience,service and value," said Mr. Dan O’Malley, Executive Vice President of MoneyGram International said,This service is in line with our objective of making our stores 'Stores of Community' and will underscore the bond we share with our valued customers, built on low prices, great customer service, quality products and wide assortment that continue to introduce our services to people around the globe through this joint business relationship".

Foreign nationals to avail money transfer of the service to the tune of up to $2,500,MoneyGram services are available across 30,000 locations across India and Thomas Cook is a principal agent of MoneyGram International in India.

Mr. Madhavan Menon, Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., on the occasion said, "We are delighted to partner with Bharti Walmart and Bharti Retail in this initiative. The money transfer services will provide several benefits of ease, convenience and value to their customers."

The World Bank's Migration and Remittances Factbook 2011 states that in 2010 India was the largest recipient country of remittances and the number two emigrating country in the world. Approximately $55 billion (USD) in remittances were sent to India last year.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

GAIL's declare 75% dividend

23 May 2011 New Delhi Nksagar Sagar Media Inc: GAIL's Turnover increases 30% to Rs 32,459 cr in FY 2010-11 And Net Profit up 13% at Rs. 3561 crore; Board recommends total dividend of 75% on paid up capital.GAIL (India) Limited has recorded sustained performance in key physical as well as financial parameters in the Financial Year 2010-11. According to the audited figures, Turnover (net of excise duty) in the year 2010-11 increased by 30 per cent to Rs. 32,459 crore from Rs. 24,996 crore in FY 2009-10. The Profit Before Tax during the year 2010-11 increased by 14 percent to Rs. 5,240 crore from Rs. 4,578 crore in the previous year. The Profit After Tax during the year 2010-11 increased by 13% to Rs. 3,561 crore from Rs. 3,140 crore in the previous year. The Gross Margin during the year 2010-11 increased by 15 percent to Rs. 5,973 crore from Rs. 5,210 crore. The Board of Directors has recommended payment of total dividend at the rate of 75 percent on the paid-up share capital of the Company for FY 2010-11 inclusive of 20 percent interim dividend already paid.

Here is Segment-wise Revenue: During the current financial year, revenues from Natural Gas Transmission business have increased by 20 percent to Rs. 3790 crore as against Rs.3168 crore in last year. The revenues from LPG transmission during the current financial year have increased by 6 percent to Rs. 475 crore as against Rs. 447 crore in last year. The sales from Natural Gas Trading during current financial year increased by 37 percent to Rs. 25,667 crore as against Rs.18,803 crore in last year. The net sales from Petrochemicals business have increased by 2 percent to Rs. 2,960 crore as against Rs.2,912 crore in last year. The net sales from LPG and Liquid Hydrocarbons business during the current financial was Rs. 2,786 crore as against Rs. 2833 crore in last year. The increase in net profit during the current financial year was mainly due to the increase in Natural gas Trading and Transmission and increase in petrochemicals sales. Physical Performance: During the current financial year, the Natural Gas transmission was 117.91 MMSCMD, increased by 10 percent from 106.74 MMSCMD in the last year. The LPG transmission during the current financial year was 3,337 TMT, up by 6 percent from 3,161 TMT in the last financial year. The Natural Gas sales during the current financial year were 83.23 MMSCMD, up 2 percent from 81.43 MMSCMD in the last year. The LPG and Other Liquid Hydrocarbon production during the current financial year was 1,369 TMT, as against 1440 TMT in the last year. The LPG and Other Liquid Hydrocarbon sales during the current financial year were 1373 TMT, as against 1443 TMT in the last year. During FY 2010-11, the petrochemical production was 416 TMT as against 417 TMT in the last year. The polymer sales during current financial year were 420 TMT as against 410 TMT in the last year. During the year 2010-11, as per consolidated financial statements, the total group sales (net of Excise Duty) were Rs. 35,107 crore. The consolidated Gross Margin was Rs. 7,065 crore, the Profit Before Tax was Rs. 5,799 crore and Group Profit After Tax was Rs. 4,021 crore. The Earning Per Share (EPS) was Rs. 28.07 per share in the year 2010-11 as against Rs. 24.75 per share in the year 2009-10. The EPS as per consolidated statement was Rs. 31.70 per share as against Rs. 26.23 per share in the previous year. Q4 Results of 2010-11 GAIL (India) Limited registered a turnover (net of Excise Duty) of Rs. 8,894 crore in the fourth quarter of FY 2010-11 as against Rs.6,522 Crore, a 36 percent increase over the turnover in the corresponding quarter during the last financial year. GAIL's Net Profit for the fourth quarter of the FY 2010-11 decreased by 14 percent to Rs. 783 crore against Rs. 911 crore in the corresponding quarter of previous year due to higher LPG Subsidy. The Gross Margin decreased by 9 percent to Rs. 1,340 crore in the fourth quarter of the current financial year as against Rs.1,465 crore in the corresponding period last year. The Profit Before Tax decreased by 13 percent to Rs. 1,139 crore in the fourth quarter of the current financial year against Rs.1,306 crore in the corresponding period of last year. Segment-wise Revenue During the fourth quarter of the current financial year revenue from Natural Gas Trading have increased by 53 percent to Rs. 7,153 crore as against Rs.4,665 crore in the corresponding period of the last year. The net sales from Petrochemicals business have increased by 25 percent to Rs. 1,031 crore as against Rs. 822 crore in the corresponding period of last year. The revenues from Natural Gas Transmission business have increased by 23 percent to Rs. 912 crore as against Rs. 740 crore in the corresponding period of previous year.The revenues from LPG transmission have decreased to Rs. 118 crores as against Rs. 122 crores in the corresponding period last year. The net sales from LPG and Liquid Hydrocarbons business during the fourth quarter of the current financial year have decreased to Rs. 539 crores as against Rs. 920 crores in the corresponding period of last year.The decrease in net profit during the fourth quarter of the current financial year was mainly due higher LPG Subsidy contribution by the Company. Physical Performance During the fourth quarter of the current financial year, the Natural Gas sales were 85.73 MMSCMD, up 3 percent from 83.59 MMSCMD during the corresponding quarter of last year. During the fourth quarter of FY 2010-11, the petrochemical production was 122 TMT, up 9 percent from 112 TMT in the corresponding quarter last year. The polymer sales during the fourth quarter of the current financial year have increased by 32 percent to 144 TMT as against 109 TMT in the corresponding quarter in the previous year. The LPG transmission during the fourth quarter of the current financial year was 857 TMT as against 871 TMT during the corresponding quarter in the previous financial year. The LPG and Other Liquid Hydrocarbon production during the fourth quarter of the current financial year was 339 TMT as against 357 TMT in the corresponding quarter of last year. The LPG and Other Liquid Hydrocarbon sales during the fourth quarter of the current financial year were 339 TMT as against 356 TMT in the corresponding period last year. The Natural Gas transmission during the fourth quarter of the current financial year was 120.43 MMSCMD, increased by 5 percent from 114.76 MMSCMD in the corresponding period last year.

Renault Fluence launches first car in India

May 23-2011 New Delhi: French car maker Renault today launched its first car ‘Fluence’ in New Delhi with glittering ceremony.Renault plans to launch five new models within couple of years. Furthermore in line is the premium SUV, Koleos, plus small hatchback and a sedan.French car maker plans to enter the affordable SUV market with the launch of the Duster in the Rs. 8-12 lakh range. Renault performing niche products ready,has to expand its distribution network from 14 cities at present to over 70 locations and 100 outlets by the end of 2012.

Briefing the media during the launch of the Fluence,Mr Marc Nassif, Managing Director of Renault India said."It is very proud moment for us at Renault India to launh not only the Renault Fluene,our first built-in-India ar,but also to introduce the Renault brand to our Indian customers.For Renault,India is one of the three key countries in Renault's international development strategy.The Renault Fluence was designed for the Asian Markets,hence we are confident that it will not only shake up the segment,but also give the Indian customer their first taste of what Renault is capable of bring to the Indian market."

With a committed investment of Rs 45 billion by 2015,the Alliance plant in Chennai is now fully operational with one assembly line and the second line will be installed soon,taking the total capacity to 400,000 cars per year.
Mr Sudhir Rao,Dy.MD of Renault India said instead of our planto start with 8 Dealers outlets,we are now in position where we will have 14 dealers fully operational and ready to sell the cars from today,ramping up to 40 dealers by the end of this year and the full range of 5 ars and 100 dealerships by December 2012.

Renault with its ambitious plan aims to sell over 1,00,000 cars a year in India by the end of 2013 The Fluence diesel priced at Rs. 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), while the petrol model priced at Rs. 14.4 lakh. The Fluence diesel is powered by a 1.5-litre motor with 112 bhp of power and has a 6-speed manual. The petrol version is a 2.0-litre motor with 135 bhp and is linked to a six-speed CVT gearbox.

Monday, May 23, 2011

India to host 11th Conference to the Convention on Biological Diversity

India is hosting the eleventh Conference of the Parties (CoP-11) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the sixth Conference of the Parties serving as Meeting of the Parties (CoP/MoP-6) to the Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety to be held on 1-19 October, 2012.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests and Convention on Biological Diversity organized one-day Stakeholders’ Consultations and Launch of the UNDB for Asia and Pacific in New Delhi today. The event was presided over by Shri Jairam Ramesh, Minister for Environment and Forests. Dr. Ahmed Djoghlaf, Executive Secretary of the CBD Secretariat based in Montreal also attended the event. The Vice-Minister of Environment, Japan representing the CoP-10 presidency, Ministers of Environment from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan participated. Ambassadors / High Commissioners of Delhi based Missions also attended the event. Other participants included representatives of Central Government Ministries / Departments, State Governments, National Biodiversity Authority, State Biodiversity Boards, Universities, specialized agencies, UN bodies, International organizations, Civil Society Organizations, and Industry.

The period 2011-2020 has been proclaimed by the UN General Assembly as the UN Decade on Biodiversity (UNDB) to raise awareness about the importance of and threats to biodiversity. The Decade coincides with the duration of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 adopted by CoP-10 to the CBD held in Nagoya, Japan in October, 2010. It contains 20 targets to help achieve the three objectives of the CBD and the Millennium Development Goals.

CoP-11 to be held in India would be the first CoP in the UNDB. The year 2012 when CoP-11 would be held is also significant because that would be the year of 40th anniversary of Stockholm Conference, 20th anniversary of Rio Earth Summit (Rio + 20) and 10th anniversary of Johannesburg Summit. The event provides India with an opportunity to consolidate, scale up and showcase our initiatives and strengths on biodiversity.

The important components of the event included special sessions devoted to engagement with different categories of stakeholder’s namely civil society, UN and donor agencies, State Biodiversity Boards and Business community. During the formal launch of the UNDB for Asia and Pacific, the Minister for Environment and Forests, Shri Jairam Ramesh unveil the logo and slogan for CoP-11, which has been developed by National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad. A video developed by the CBD Secretariat for the UNDB including a message UN Secretary General Mr Ban ki Moon and a video developed by the Ministry of Environment and Forests ‘Incredible India and Incredible Biodiversity’ were screened. This was followed by Kuchipudi dance performance on Prakruti Rakshati Rakshita (Nature Protects if She is Protected).

Pak security forces & militants battle at PNS Mehran Karachi

Geo News reports:KARACHI: Exchange of firing between security forces and militants, involved in PNS Mehran attack, is still continuing almost eight hours after the attack began, Geo news reported.According to the sources, fresh commandos have reached PNS Mehran on Monday morning and its Zarar company is participating in the operation while helicopter are also being used for surveillance.Fifteen bomb explosions have been heard so far since militants assaulted PNS Mehran.Navy spokesman said that two P-3C Orion aircrafts have completely destroyed in the attack while five including four navy and one rangers personnel have been killed while nine others received injuries.He expressed hope that operation would soon be concluded.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Kanimozhi to move DHC for bail

DMK MP Kanimozhi, arrested in connection with the 2G spectrum case, will move the Delhi High Court for bail. Kanimozhi's lawyer Shanmugasundaram said yesterday that the order of the Special CBI court rejecting her bail plea will be challenged in the High Court. The Special CBI Judge O P Saini had rejected the bail applications of Kanimozhi and Sharad Kumar, MD and CEO of Kalaignar TV, saying the offence was grave and the possibility of witnesses being influenced could not ruled out.
Mr. Shanmugasundaram cited the remarks of the Judge appreciating the "dignified" conduct of Kanimozhi. The court, meanwhile, deferred till Tuesday the orders on the bail plea of Asif Balwa and Rajiv Aggarwal, the directors of Kusegaon Fruits and Vegetables Ltd.

Yemen opposition sign deal for peace

Yemen's opposition has signed a deal brokered by the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) to end the country's political crisis. The deal, signed by the opposition in the capital, Sanaa, yesterday commits Saleh to leaving office within 30 days and may hand over power to Vice President,in return for immunity from prosecution.Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh out of office within a month and called for holding early presidential elections to end domestic political crisis when speaking to tens of thousands of his supporters gathering near the presidential palace. Reports from Sanaa said Saleh had resolved his objections over the GCC brokered deal in which gives him immunity from prosecution if he resigns within 30 days and deal may be signed as early as Sunday.Anti-government protest has 170 protesters been killed since the demonstrations began three months ago.

US would act unilaterally again inside Pakistan: Obama

Sunday, May 22, 2011
US President Obama has indicated he would order an Abbottabad type operation that killed Osama Bin Laden early this month if another militant leader was found in Pakistan.He said the US was mindful of sovereignty issue but said the US could not allow "active plans to come to fruition without us taking some action".He was speaking to the BBC ahead of a European visit.Asked what he would do if one of al-Qaeda's top leaders, or the Taliban leader Mullah Omar, was tracked down to a location in Pakistan or another sovereign territory, he said the US would take unilateral action if required."Our job is to secure the United States," Obama said.
"We are very respectful of the sovereignty of Pakistan. But we cannot allow someone who is actively planning to kill our people or our allies' people.
"We can't allow those kind of active plans to come to fruition without us taking some action." Media agencies

Congress Leaders from Karnatak met PM

A delegation of Congress leaders from Karnataka today met Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh demanding immediate appropriate action on Governor H R Bhardwaj's report to the Centre. Governor in his report has recommended dismissal of the B S Yeddyurappa government in the state.The delegation included KPCC president G Parameshwar and the Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Siddaramiah, Leader of Opposition in the Legislative council Motamma, senior Congress leader Oscar Fernandes and other state leaders.Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Mr. Siddaramiah said the Karnataka government has lost all the right to continue in office and should go.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Yuvraj unveils sports injury center in New Delhi

20th May, 2011 New Delhi : Sports injuries and its rehabilitation is one of the most important aspect of Indian sports. For a long time India needed a Sports Injury Clinic where top players from all sports can come and get treatment for the fatal injuries. Keeping that in mind, Dr. Jatin Chaudhry, renowned Sports Injury Specialist opened a first of its kind Sports Injury Clinic in collaboration with Dr. PDS Kohli’s G. Scan Imaging and Diagnostics in New Delhi today. The ribbon cutting ceremony was done by Yuvraj Singh, Man of the Series, World Cup Cricket 2011 and Bishan Singh Bedi, former Indian cricketer. Also present on the occasion were Robert Vadra, Madan Lal, Former Indian Cricketer and Reena Dhaka, fashion designer. On this occasion, Yuvraj Singh said, “It’s my honour to unveil the first of its kind sports injury clinic today and I think our country and my friends from all other sports industry needed something like this in India for a long time. I myself have been getting the treatment from Dr. Jatin Chaudry and whenever I have gone to him with any kind of injury, I have returned home perfectly well. I wish him a very good luck and I am sure people will make full use of this clinic.”
Treating sports personalities like Yuvraj Singh, Arjun Atwal and Sania Mirza, Dr. Jatin Chaudhry has earned himself named like Magic Heeler in the Indian media. On the launch of the Clinic Dr. Chaudhry said, “I am so happy that my long pending plan to put all my energy and the talent in the service of Indian sports has taken a new shape today. It’s my promise to all the existing and upcoming sports persons that whenever they want my help, they can come to my center without taking any appointment. They would feel like home.” At the Clinic a latest MRI machine which is North India’s first standing and Open MRI has also been installed that may not need the patient to slide under a tunnel like structure and listen to vociferous noises. One can rather sit in the luxury of a couch and can get it done while watching TV.

Dr. Jatin Chaudhry is a Phd in sports medicine. He specializes in treating injuries like ACL without surgery and has done miracles by pulling out sports personalities like Yuvraj Singh, Sania Mirza etc. from career threatening injuries. He has successfully treated patients with ailments like cancer etc with alternate therapy and also he has assisted Kings XI Punjab (IPL Team) as physiotherapist for two consecutive years.

Understanding the importance of correct diagnosis in musculoskeletal injuries, Dr. Kohli said, “Being an international polo player myself I have experienced the sporting injuries for last three decades. The need of latest MRI and ultrasound sports equipment to diagnose and help the treating doctor is of paramount importance to me.”

Friday, May 20, 2011

People arrested for obstructing Land acquisition for 'POSCO'

Nksagar-Odisha, more than 32 persons arrested today for obstructing the land acquisition process for the Rs 52,000 crore Posco steel project near Paradip in Jagatsinghpur district. The incident took place when activists of United Action Committee, which was earlier supporting the biggest Foreign Direct Investment project in the country, were trying to block the entry route to Gada Kujanga opposing land acquisition work by the officials. The president of the United Action Committee Anadi Rout and other arrested persons have been taken into police custody at Paradip. Tension prevailed in Posco project site area following arrest of the local villagers. The United Action Committee has turned hostile since the first day of land acquisition yesterday as the Odisha Government failed to meet their demands.

Orissa government's move to resume land acquisition for Posco steel plant from Wednesday faced fresh trouble as villagers supporting the project announced "non-cooperation" and opponents demanded relocation of the proposed site. "Though we want establishment of Posco steel plant here, we will not cooperate with the administration's efforts of land acquisition process unless our demands are fulfilled," United Action Committee (UAC) president Anadi Charan Rout told PTI, after attending a marathon meeting between the pro-project group and Jagatsinghpur district administration. "The villagers want more compensation. I will take up the matter with the government. However, we have requested them to cooperate the administration in land acquisition scheduled to resume from May 18," District Collector N C Jena said. The land acquisition process for Posco was halted last year in view of a cease work order from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest.


However, the officials destroyed five betel vines today in the process of land acquisition and had to return as no other farmer turned up to identify their land.
Meanwhile, the activists of Posco Pratirodh Sangram Samiti (PPSS), a body opposing the Posco project, have blocked the road to Dhinkia and Gobindpur, while supporters of Bhitamati Suraksha Manch staged a blockade near Nuagaon. More than 700 police personnel have been deployed in Balitutha, Gobindpur, Gada Kujanga, Nuagaon and other areas in order to ensure smooth land acquisition work and prevent any untoward incident.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Rahi wins bronze qualifies London Olympic

Rahi Sarnobat on Thursday became the sixth Indian shooter to seal a berth in next year's London Olympics after winning the bronze medal in the 25m women's Sports Pistol event at the ongoing ISSF World Cup in Fort Benning, USA.
By virtue of the bronze, the 21-year-old Kolhapur girl won a quota place for the London Games and also earned India its maiden entry in the Sports Pistol event in the Olympics.Rahi, playing only in her sixth World Cup, was at the bottom of the starting list in the final but came up with an excellent performance in the final to climb to third position from eighth.


Rahi qualified for the finals with a score 582 but with an excellent performance of 207.7, she eventually ended up third overall with a total score of 789.7.The gold medal in this event was won by Chinese shooter Chen Ying, who equaled the world record with a score of 796.7, while the silver went to Otrvad Gundegmmaa of Mongolia, who shot 789.8 and took the other quota place available from this World Cup.
Gold medallist Ying has already won the quota place at the ISSF World Cup in Changwon, Korea earlier this year.Among other Indians in fray, Commonwealth Games gold medalist Anisa Sayyed finished a disappointing seventh out of eight finalists with a total score of 787 while Annuraj Singh, who won a quota place in the Air Pistol event, was ranked 33rd with a score of 574.Anisa, however, was at the second spot at the start of the final with a score of 587 out of 600 but she came up with a poor performance of 200 in the finals to finish on a lowly note.


Rahi Sarnobat on Thursday became the sixth Indian shooter to seal a berth in next year's London Olympics after winning the bronze medal in the 25m women's Sports Pistol event at the ongoing ISSF World Cup in Fort Benning, USA.By virtue of the bronze, the 21-year-old Kolhapur girl won a quota place for the London Games and also earned India its maiden entry in the Sports Pistol event in the Olympics.Rahi, playing only in her sixth World Cup, was at the bottom of the starting list in the final but came up with an excellent performance in the final to climb to third position from eighth.Rahi qualified for the finals with a score 582 but with an excellent performance of 207.7, she eventually ended up third overall with a total score of 789.7.

The gold medal in this event was won by Chinese shooter Chen Ying, who equaled the world record with a score of 796.7, while the silver went to Otrvad Gundegmmaa of Mongolia, who shot 789.8 and took the other quota place available from this World Cup.Gold medallist Ying has already won the quota place at the ISSF World Cup in Changwon, Korea earlier this year.Among other Indians in fray, Commonwealth Games gold medalist Anisa Sayyed finished a disappointing seventh out of eight finalists with a total score of 787 while Annuraj Singh, who won a quota place in the Air Pistol event, was ranked 33rd with a score of 574.Anisa, however, was at the second spot at the start of the final with a score of 587 out of 600 but she came up with a poor performance of 200 in the finals to finish on a lowly note.

Crisis in spinning industry

2011-05-19 09:38:28 - Briefing the press in New Delhi along with heads of other textile associations, Mr. Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman, Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), said “Our understanding is that exports of cotton yarn during the last five weeks have amounted to less than 50 million kgs. as against 70-75 million kgs. per month, which was being exported last year before the restriction was imposed,” .Mentioning that the textile mills are holding a stock of around 500 million kgs, Media briefing was addressed also by senior functionaries of CITI, Southern India Mills Association (SIMA), North India Textile Mill Association, Texprocil, Indian Spinners Association (ISA), Tamil Nadu Spinning Mills Association, Andhra Pradesh Spinning Mills Association, South India Spinners Association, Annur Spinning Mills Association, Madurai Spinners Association and Karur Textile Forum.

Faced with an extremely grim situation arising out of huge decline in demand and prices of cotton yarn and consequent piling up of huge inventories, CITI organised a meeting of all major textile associations of India in New Delhi on 18th May 2011 to discuss the problems being faced by the sector.

While lamenting that the situation is unprecedented in the
textile industry, it was unanimously decided in the meeting that spinning mills in India would be closed on 23rd May 2011. From 24th May onwards, it was decided to have a production cut back of 33.33 percent (1/3rd) of existing daily production. Such a drastic step was needed to ensure a reasonable price and boost up the sagging demand for the cotton yarn.It was also decided that a review meeting off the stakeholders will be called on 1st week of June 2011 to take stock of the price and demand position and to chalk out further action. “Our sincere hope is that with the support of the government and cutback in production the crisis situation will be blown over and the industry will be back on the rail” textile leaders opined.
Briefing the press in New Delhi along with heads of other textile associations, Mr. Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman, Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), said that a combined representation has already been sent to the Textile Minister, Commerce Minister and senior officials in the ministries of Textiles, Commerce and Finance highlighting the current problems of the textile industry.
Mr. Jaipuria explained that short-sighted Government policies with reference to both cotton and cotton yarn in the recent past have converted a profitable spinning industry into a crisis ridden sector during the last few weeks. The leaders of various associations explained that the following urgent steps would be required to prevent the current crisis from deepening further.
(i) The Drawback facility on export of cotton yarn was withdrawn on 29th April, 2010 and the DEPB benefits on export of cotton yarn was withdrawn on 21st April, 2010. Both these facilities may be reinstated with retrospective effect immediately.
(ii) An Excise duty of 10.30% was imposed on manufacture of garments. We request the government to withdraw the Excise duty on garments to perk up the consumer demand. This should be done at least till the GST is introduced.
(iii) An announcement may be made by Government that no restrictions would be placed on export of cotton yarn in future so that mills can start winning the confidence of their buyers which will now take a long time since the damage has already happened and buyers have moved to the competitors. This will also help in resuming the investments in the production of cotton yarn.
(iv) Providing 2% interest subvention for all textile and clothing products i.e. all products falling under chapters 50 to 63, excluding fibres.
(v) Since the spinning mills are incurring huge cash losses, government may consider giving one year moratorium period for repayment of loans and interest and also exempt this period for TUF eligibility so that NPAs are avoided.
(vi) Permit conversion of a portion of CC limits into term loans to fill up the gap in the CC limits caused due to sudden fall in the prices of unsold yarn and cotton and such loan should be given five years repayment period with normal interest rate and it should not affect the credit rating of such units resulting in proliferation of Non Performing Assets (NPAs).
(vii) Address the pollution issues prevailing in various dyeing clusters particularly Tirupur and other places in Tamil Nadu so that the domestic garment industry works in full capacity which in turn boost yarn sales.

Mr. Shishir Jaipuria observed that the present predicament of the textile industry is due to a combination of factors. The Government abruptly imposed a restriction on export of cotton yarn to 720 million kgs for the year 2010-11 based on an unsubstantiated complaint made by cotton yarn users of high prices and low availability.
Consequently, there was no export of cotton yarn for over two and a half months from 15th January, 2011 to 31st March 2011. This led to a huge stock of unsold cotton yarn with the mills as on 31st March 2011, considerably higher than the figures released by the Textile Commissioner in the last meeting of the Cotton Yarn Advisory Board (CYAB).
Post withdrawal of restrictions on export of cotton yarn from 1st April 2011, exports have been very tardy since non-shipment of Indian cotton yarn for over two months have diverted several regular importers of the Indian cotton yarn to other sources. Cotton yarn exporters are finding it extremely difficult to win back these buyers now. On the top of it, immediately after the withdrawal of restrictions, the mills, which have accumulated inventories have off loaded them at a reduced price internationally, which has led to price decline. Even that did not help boosting the demand on account of the steep decline in demand for cotton fabrics internationally.

“Our understanding is that exports of cotton yarn during the last five weeks have amounted to less than 50 million kgs. as against 70-75 million kgs. per month, which was being exported last year before the restriction was imposed,” says Mr. Jaipuria.Mentioning that the textile mills are holding a stock of around 500 million kgs, Mr. Jaipuria observed that this has completely eaten into their working capital. Faced with cash losses and negligible working capital, mills are finding it impossible to buy cotton and this has resulted in a decline in cotton prices in the market. However, he added that decline in cotton prices is no indication of adequate availability.


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Launch of Godrej Appliances'Edge SX MuziPlay Refrigerators'

18 May 2011 New Delhi: Nksagar Sagar Media Inc:

Godrej Appliances one of the India's leading appliance manufacturers has redefined convergence in refrigerators for Indian homes and taken innovations to a new level by announcing the launch of India's first music enable refrigerator-Edge SX MuziPlay with FM radio and MP 3 Player.

Godrej Edge SX MuziPlay refrigerators available in variety of colors and patterns like Garden silver,Burgundy Lilies,Icy Wines,Silver woods and Ruby Streak in hundred percent Green technology in two capacity of 183 litre and 221 litre and priced Rs.12690 and Rs.15660.

Vice President,Sales & Marketing,Godrej Appliances said."Today consumers are quit aware of their options and clear about what products they desire.For instance,in the refrigerator category,more than just cooling,consumers look at features like freshness,storage efficiency and stylish exteriors to match their discerning lifestyle.We have set another milestone in our strong legacy in R&D and are totally committed to pioneering nouvelle technologies to meet the changing nees of the Indian market,staying true to out philosophy,Designed by Curiosity".

He said, our refrigerator market share is to grow at 18 per cent and we need to focus our share of market in smaller towns where our presnce is low.Godrej Edge SX Muziplay refrigerators has FM Radio,MP3 Player,80 W PMPO Speakers,Mobile Charger,StayCool Technology,Step Designed Freezer with Silver Ion Freshness Technology and 5 Star Energy Rating. Godrej Appliances is promoting these models this summer with a complete 360 degree Media cum BTL consumers engagement program which will center around the theme of "MuziPlay".

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Bihar for final phase of Panchayat election

May 18,2011 :Bihar, polling is underway for the tenth and the final phase of Panchayat elections at 504 Gram Panchayats located in 30 blocks of the state amidst tight security. The polling began at 7 am and will continue up to 5 this afternoon. In Naxal affected five blocks, polling will be up to 3 pm. Seven thousand one hundred sixty eight polling stations have been made for polling. AIR correspondent reports that about thirty lakh voters will decide the fate of 52 thousand 188 candidates.

BJP delegation meets Prez

A BJP delegation led by party president Nitin Gadkari informed President Pratibha Patil that Karnataka govt enjoyed majority in the state assembly and the governor's act of recommending President's rule was not proper.The delegation consisting of Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yedyurappa and MLA's supporting him met the President this evening.They demanded rejection of Governor's report claiming the support of 121 MLAs.

Tarun Gogoi Assam CM - Oommen Chandy Kerala CM -Mamata WB CM

Assam and Kerala, the new Chief Ministers will be sworn in Wednesday. Tarun Gogoi will assume office for the third time in a row in Assam. The State Governor Janaki Ballav Patnaik will administer the oath of office and secrecy to Mr Gogoi at a swearing-in ceremony being organized at the Raj Bhavan in Guwahati at three in the afternoon. Mr. Gogoi was formally elected Leader of the Congress Legislature Party unopposed at a meeting held in the Central Hall of the Assam Assembly in Dispur on Tuesday.

Kerala, Senior Congress leader Oommen Chandy will be sworn in as the Chief Minister today. Six leaders of Congress-led UDF are also to take oath along with Mr Chandy as ministers in the swearing ceremony to be held this afternoon at Rajbhawan in Thiruvananthapuram. In a neck to neck fight, Congress led UDF has secured a very thin majority to the 140 member Kerala Assembly in the recent election. Mr Chandy will be expanding his cabinet by next week.
West Bengal, the Trinamool Congress-led new Government will be sworn-in on Friday. State Governor M.K. Narayanan has invited Mamata Banerjee to take oath as Chief Minister of the state after her election as the leader of Trinamool Congress Legislature Party. According to a Raj Bhavan release, Governor Narayanan has appointed Gyan Singh Sohanpal, Protem Speaker of the newly constituted West Bengal Assembly. He will take oath today.

Buddha Purnima celebrated

The 2,555 Buddha Purnima was celebrated across the country with traditional gaiety and religious fervor.Bihar, a large number of devotees were seen at Main Mahabodhi temple to offer prayers. Uttar Pradesh, the day started with Stupa Pujan in Sarnath and Kushinagar.West Bengal, special religious congregations were held almost at all the monasteries in Darjeeling hills, Terai and Dooars and also in Sikkim.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Rahul to PM : Farmers killed, women raped

On land acquisition issue in Uttar Pradesh Rahul Met the Prime Minister, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday complained to him about alleged "repression" and "murder" of farmers in the Mayawati-ruled state.

Rahul Gandi in his media briefing after emerging from an half-an-hour meeting, with PM,Rahul Gandhi young Prince of Indian Politics stunned his audience with eloquent speech:Gandhi alleged huge heaps of ash carrying burnt bodies have been found in the villages where farmers were agitating for better compensation for their land acquired by Maaywati government.In order to substantiate his allegation, Gandhi showed the Prime Minister pictures purportedly of bodies burnt and other forms of violence against farmers and their family members."The issue here is a more fundamental one with regard to these villages in particular and a large number of villages in UP all down the Agra highway, where state repression is being used, where people are being murdered."
The rate of compensation is properly revised the years, it said.

"Quite severe atrocities taking place there....There is a set of large 74 heaps of ash there with dead bodies inside. Everybody in the village knows it. We can give you pictures. Women have been raped, people have been thrashed. Houses have been destroyed," Gandhi told reporters.

Rahul Gandhi the AICC general secretary said he was "very concerned" about what was going on in the villages there and facilitated the meeting of farmers with the Prime Minister so that they can put forward their views and the PM listened to it. It was a delegation of eight persons.To a question why the Centre is yet to amend the Land Acquisition Act even as he had met the Prime Minister even last year with the same demand, Gandhi said it was taking time as the legislation was a complex one.

Media reports is, BSP said Congress is indulging in rumour mongering and cheap politics. "Instead of wasting his energy on leveling false accusations against BSP government, the Gandhi scion should ensure amendment to the Land Acquisition Act, 1894," the BSP party release said.BSP in regards of the violence at Bhatta-Parsaul on May 7, herein four people were killed was not related to land acquisition. "The issue of compensation for the land acquired from villagers was settled in 2009. But, some anti-social elements are now instigating farmers against the state government," the release said. It also alleged that opposition parties provided illegal guns to anti-social elements who created disturbance in the village. "These elements were responsible for attack on police and district officers, which left two policemen dead and a district magistrate critically injured," BSP official said.

The rate of compensation is properly revised every year over the years, BSP said
and currently farmers are paid Rs 44 lakh per acre compensation on the acquisition of the land in Noida and Rs 36 lakh per acre in Greater Noida,for national highway Rs 22 lakh to Rs 35 lakh per acre for land acquisition under Yamuna Expressway Authority.NOIDA paid Rs 20 Lakhs per acre in year 2006-07 and now paid Rs 44 Lakh per acre.These rates are better than allocated by Central government.

PTI) BSP today reacted sharply to Rahul Gandhi's meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the farmers' issue in Uttar Pradesh, saying the Congress should stop indulging in "petty politics" of spreading rumours.

"The allegations of the Congress that a large number of lives were lost in Bhatta Parsaul and women were raped are baseless," a BSP spokesman said here, adding that the Congress should stop playing "petty politics" on the issue.

The Congress has been playing such political drama in Uttar Pradesh to regain its lost ground and Rahul Gandhi's meeting with the Prime Minister is another such attempt, the spokesman said.

Accusing the Congress of misguiding the innocent farmers of Bhatta Parsaul, the spokesman underlined that there was no problem relating to land acquisition in that village.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Lee Kuan Yew & Goh Chok Tong announced retirement

Singapore, the gleaming city state's first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew has announced his retirement from the Cabinet, paving the way for reforms after the ruling party's worst debacle in the 7th May general elections.The 87-year-old leader and his successor, former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong on Sunday announced that they would step down from the government, leaving Lee's son, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to lead a younger generation government.

The decision came after the general elections where close to 40 per cent voters polled against the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), electing a record six opposition members to parliament.Though the PAP has a strong majority of 81 seats, its popularity on vote count was reduced to slightly above 60 per cent, the worst performance since independence.

Lee helmed the wealthy city as the premier from 1959, when colonial ruler Britain granted self-rule to Singapore, to 1990 and served the government as senior minister and minister mentor after that.

The elder Lee built Singapore into an Asian commercial, financial and trading hub, taking over from the colonial left out at independence.Goh, who turned 70 next week, had continued that nation-building momentum till August 2004 when he handed the premiership to Lee Hsien Loong."Our main reason is to show Singapore is in a new era. It cannot be government as usual. Both former PMs withdrawing from the Government will indicate that it is not government as usual, and that the PM can and will revise and revamp his policies going into this new situation," the elder Lee was quoted as saying by The Sunday Times.

He said he and Goh believed that it was the right thing to do, to give PM and his team the room to break from the past, and make it clear that the PAP has never been averse to change."It is vital to avoid a situation where people vote to have more opposition for oppositions sake," he pointed out.Issues raised by Singaporeans during the general elections were related to influx of foreign workers taking local jobs on cheaper wages, higher cost of housing caused by high net worth expatriates, housing affordability, rising cost of living for the locals, the slower progress on transportation, and the high salaries for the ministers in the prosperous city state.

The Sunday Times said Lee's decision to quit the government stemmed from the instinct to never take voters for granted.Commentators said the two leaders were widely expected retire sooner or later, especially given the age of senior Lee, but their absence would have an impact in terms of Singapore's foreign relationships.

Lee and Goh had served as "special envoys" for the country, noted former member of parliament Chan Soo Sen."The new Foreign Minister would not have the kind of network that (Foreign Minister) George Yeo had, and he wont have these two (Lee and Goh) working almost as special envoys to open doors for Singapore," the paper quoted Chan as saying.

Foreign Minister Yeo lost his parliament seat in the election, the biggest PAP loss ever.After stepping down as prime minister, Goh travelled to various part of the world to raise Singapore's profile, most notably in the Middle East, India and Europe.Goh was credited with fostering closer ties between Asia and Europe.

Premier Lee is expected to announce a new cabinet this week with a challenge of filing in a number of ministerial positions after the retirement of several senior ministers.Singapore is projected to post an economic growth of between four per cent to six per cent this year, a follow on to last year's 14. 5 per cent, having rebounded strongly from the global economic meltdown of mid-2008 and 2009.Media agencies

Founder N Rangasamy of AINRC to retain Puducherry CM

All India NR Congress founder N Rangasamy, whose party made a stunning electoral debut in alliance with AIADMK to dethrone his former party Congress in the assembly polls, will be sworn in as Puducherry CM on Monday.Official said Rangasamy alone will be administered oath of office by Lt Governor Iqbal Singh at Raj Nivas.There is no clarity yet on whether 61-year-old Rangasamy would head a coalition government or not. AINRC had won 15 seats and the AIADMK five in the 30-member Assembly.Two-time Chief Minister Rangasamy returns to power nearly three years after being unceremoniously removed by Congress high command following a revolt by his cabinet colleagues.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Ninth hike Oil petrol price in nine months

Public sector Oil companies with right of pricing structure has enhanced the oil price, it is ninth hike Oil petrol price in nine months. Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum will hike rates between Rs 4.99 and Rs 5.01 per litre in Delhi with effect from midnight tonight.
Petrol in Delhi currently costs Rs 58.37 per litre.

The government had freed petrol price from government control in June but the state-owned oil firms had not raised prices on an 'informal' dictate from the oil ministry.

Following are the revised rates of petrol at Indian Oil Corp's petrol pumps in four metros after Saturday's decision to raise rates by Rs 5 per litre.
Price at Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum outlets will vary by a few paisas:

PETROL (in Rs/Litre)

Current Price Revised Price Increase

Delhi 58.37 63.37 5.00

Kolkata 62.50 62.50 5.21

Mumbai 63.08 63.08 5.25

Chennai 61.93 61.93 5.29

New rates are effective midnight tonight.

Saturday, May 14, 2011

FIEO Telcom awards 2011:

Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc: New Delhi
FIEO Telcom awards 2011:Vice President of FIEO welcomed Dr Rahul Khullar,the Chief Guest Dr Anup K Pujari,DG of Foreign trade and award winners on the maiden FIEO Telecom Awards 2011 at Le Meridian Hotel New Delhi on 12 May 2011:To acknowledge the contribution by outstanding companies in the telecom sector, Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) organized the first "FIEO Telecom Technology Awards 2011" on Thursday at New Delhi. Dr Rahul Khullar, Commerce Secretary presented the awards to companies who have excelled on various parameters within the ambit of telecommunication services and equipment sector. Dr Anup K Pujari, Director General of Foreign Trade was the Guest of Honour on this occasion. Dr Khullar during his address said that telecommunications is one of the sectors which has witnessed the most fundamental structural and institutional reforms. Today, telecom is the second major sector attracting FDI inflows after computer software sector. He said that the domestic telecom equipment manufacturing has not been able to keep pace with the growing demand leading to the imports as the only option for telecom operators. J K Jain, Vice President FIEO mentioned that FIEO also has a mandate to promote India's services sector and the institution of these awards are a step in this direction. He said that sector has great potential and can easily contribute to USD 10 Billion by 2014. He also emphasized on the rising demand for a wide range of telecom equipment, particularly in the area of mobile telecommunication which provides excellent opportunities to domestic and foreign investors in the manufacturing sector. Jain observed that India is a net importer of telecom items and the growth of the sector offers opportunities for industry to strengthen domestic manufacturing for import neutralization and pave way to encourage exports of this sector. The awards were organized in association with Connexpo India while Hay Consultants India Pvt Ltd was the knowledge partner. The recipient of various award categories included companies like Beetel for encouraging manufacturing and exports, Ericson for adoption of green technology, Tejas for product design, Alcatel ICE3 for health safe handset, KSRTC for new mobile services , Aarogyam for social media initiatives and E-Parisara for e-waste management etc.
Other companies who were presented awards were Micromax Informatics Ltd, Spice Mobility Ltd, Handygo Technologies Pvt Ltd, Terracom Ltd, Aircel Ltd. Dell Inida, Lenovo India Pvt Ltd, Lava International Ltd, One 97 Communications Ltd, Maxx Mobilink Pvt Ltd, Telecomwatch and Redd Communications Pvt Ltd.
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Mamata rules W Bengal; Jaya ousts DMK; Cong win Assam, Kerala

2011-05-14 05:29:48 - Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc: New Delhi :
Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress created history today her party ended the 34-year of the Left Front in West Bengal, another heavy weight women leader Jayalalithaa's AIADMK planned a landslide victory to oust DMK from power in Tamil Nadu as results of the assembly elections poured out on Friday.

BJP and Congress national parties did exhibited their presence ,former in Karnataka winning all three bye polls and Congress second partner in West Bengal.However Congress could scored a spectacular hat trick in Assam bagging a near two-third majority to retain power and managed to wrest power from the Left Democratic Front in Kerala by a wafer-thin majority but lost Puducherry
to its rebel.

Riding a wave of change in a state where Left ideology ruled the roost for over three decades, Banerjee along with allies Congress and SUCI gave a severe trashing to the Left Front.The Banerjee-led alliance was set to capture over two-thirds majority by winning 225 seats in the 294 seat assembly. Banerjee, Railway Minister at the Centre, did not contest the elections.Trinamool Congress has won 142 seats and was leading in 44 more seats, while Congress has bagged 36 and was ahead in five.Mamata thanked the people of Bengal and Sonia Gandhi for their support in her landslide victory. Ms Banerjee said that it is the victory of the downtrodden people who have been deprived of basic facilities in the last 34 years rule of the Left Front. She said it is the victory of Maa, Matti, Manus. CPI(M), which headed the Left Front, has won 40 seats.
Left front has won total 61 seats and CPI(M) suffered humiliation when a number of its bigwigs, including Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, bit the dust. Shortly after defeat, Bhattacharjee resigned. With defeats in West Bengal and Kerala, the Left will have power only in Tripura.

Tamil Nadu lived up to its 'winner takes all' reputation as Jayalalithaa swept back to power with a landslide victory with her alliance set to cross the 200 mark in the 234-member assembly.AIADMK on its own is set to get 150 seats. Jayalalithaa, who won from Srirangam by over 41,000 votes, described the verdict as an outpour of people's "anger and resentment" against the DMK government while 87-year old Karunanidhi said he had been given "proper rest". Congress which contested 63 seats could manage only four wins and was leading in one.State Congress President K V Thangkabalu loss in Mylapore in Chennai.TN 2006 elections rarity for the first time it had a minority government. e DMK had then won 96 seats and the government survived on outside support from Congress and others. AIADMK won 61 seats in the 2006 elections.Jayalalithaa and Chief Minister Karunanidhi posted huge margins in Srirangam and Tiruvarur respectively, Deputy Chief Minister and DMK heavyweight M K Stalin was trailing in Kolathur. Karunanidhi has tendered his resignation.

Assam provided a surprisingly huge victory when the party returned to power for the third time.Congress vastly improved on its performance of 2006 when it had got 53 seats in the 126-member assembly by bagging 60 seats now and was ahead in 18 more.The main opposition party AGP was reduced to a rubble having won only five seats and leading in six others. It had 24 seats in the earlier assembly.

The defeat of the Left in Kerala was not as resounding as in West Bengal when the Left Democratic Front was neck and neck in the race for power and ultimately yielded by a slender margin to the Congress-led UDF. The UDF won 72 seats, two more than the half way mark in the 140 member assembly.
The LDF won 68 seats. Ageing Marxist veteran V S Achuthanandan's singlehanded campaign against corruption appears to have played a leading roled in curbing the UDF's tally.The 87-year-old Chief Minister helped CPI(M) emerge as the single largest party with 45 seats against Congress' 38.

Puducherry broke the Congress' hold on power when it voted an alliance of N Rangasamy Congress and AIADMK which got two-thirds majority in the 30-member assembly of the Union Territory.The NR Congress, headed by former Chief Minister N Rangasamy who left Congress a few months ago, bagged 15 seats while ally AIADMK won five seats.The ruling Congress was reduced to seven seats, while ally DMK won two. A lone Independent was successful.


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