Death toll status of Influenza A H1N1 related cases reach 472

Death toll status of Influenza A H1N1 related cases reach 472

The death toll status of Influenza A H1N1 related cases has reached 472 in India. 47378 passengers have been screened at 22 Airports with 83 counters manned by 225 doctors and 172 paramedics. Total passengers screened till date is 7892245.

Till date, samples from 73149 persons have been tested for Influenza A H1N1 in Government Laboratories and a few private Laboratories across the country and 13861 (18.9%) of them have been found positive.

Courtesy: Ministry of health and family welfare release

India to host the 11th Conference of the Parties to the convention on biological diversity

India to host the 11th Conference of the Parties to the convention on biological diversity

United Nations Environment Programme at Montreal states the year 2012 will be a very important year for the international community. It will mark the twentieth anniversary of the Rio Conference on Environment and Development, as well as the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
India had offered to host the eleventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the convention on biological diversity in 2012.The secretariat of the convention on Biological Diversity has welcomed the offer of the Government of India to host the eleventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention (COP-11) in 2012.
Welcoming the offer, Ahmed Djoghlaf, Executive Secretary of the Convention said, “This will allow us to continue the strategic partnership of the presidencies of the Conference of the Parties started at the eighth meeting, held in Brazil in 2006. I look forward to India joining Brazil, Germany and Japan in the quadruple presidency of the Conference of the Parties.”India is among the 17 mega-diverse countries that are custodian of 70 per cent of the world’s biodiversity. It is home to the three of the 34 “global biodiversity hotspots”, that is, biologically rich areas facing severe conservation threats. With an exceptionally high level of biodiversity, and nearly one fifth of the world’s population, India has made a unique contribution in furthering the three objectives of the convention through national, regional and global programmes. India’s biodiversity is of immense economic, ecological, social and cultural value and its potential future value is far greater. The ecosystem services from the forested watersheds of two major mountain chains-the Himalayas and the Western Ghats- indirectly support several million people in India and the non-timber forest products alone have been estimated to be worth $ 200 million per year.

Courtesy: Ministry of Environment and Forests release

PM pays tribute to Indira Gandhi

PM pays tribute to Indira Gandhi

Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, congratulated Balraj Puri, an eminent journalist, who had been conferred the 24th Indira Gandhi award for National Integration in New Delhi on Saturday.

Addressing the gathering, Singh said,” Indiraji’s contribution to nation building and national integration is unparalleled. Her commitment to national unity and integrity and to the cause of secularism is too well known to need an reiteration. Even twenty five years after her martyrdom, her legacy remains as strong and durable as ever and her vision still guides and inspires us and it will continue to do so for ages to come. As we pay homage to Indiraji, we should also re-dedicate ourselves to the ideals and values that she embodied. That indeed would be the best way to honour her memory.”

Courtesy: PMO release

Chief Justice of India inaugurate Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) conference today

Chief Justice of India inaugurate Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) conference today

K G Balakrishna, Chief Justice of India, will inaugurate “The All India Conference of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT)” on today.
M Veerappa Moily, Union Minister for Law & Justice and Prithviraj Chavan, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions will also address the conference.
The Conference is aimed at holding free and frank discussions on service laws and issues that have a bearing on the functioning of CAT. The conference will come out with suggestions to improve administration of justice through the tribunals.
V K Bali, Justice, Chairman CAT, several Judges of the Supreme Court, Attorney General, Solicitors General; the Chairmen, the Vice-Chairmen of CAT will be present at the Conference.
Members from all the 66 Central Administrative Tribunals in the country and members of the CAT Bar and the High Court Bar Association will also take part in the deliberations.
Courtesy: Ministry of Law and Justice release on 31 Oct 09.

IAF Mountaineering Expedition to Mt Bhagirathi II is successfully flagged in on 24 Oct

IAF Mountaineering Expedition to Mt Bhagirathi II is successfully flagged in on 24 Oct
The Indian Air Force Mountaineering Expedition to Mt. Bhagirathi-II was flagged on 25 Oct at Air HQ, New Delhi by Director General Administration, Air Marshal Naresh Verma
The five member team led by Wing Commander Bhavna Mehra successfully summitted Mt. Bhagirathi-II located at a height of 6512 m in the Gangotri region of Uttarakhand on 14 Oct 09.

Courtesy: Ministry of Defence release on 25 Oct 09.

Ministerial action on 25 Oct 09: Reconstituted profile of Textile Ministry (India)

Reconstituted profile of Textile Ministry (India)

Thiru Dayanidhi Maran, Minister of Textiles, has reconstituted the Textiles Committee. Thiru T. Kannan, is appointed as the Chairman of the Textiles Committee and Thiru A. B. Joshi as The Vice Chairman of the Committee.
Courtesy: Ministry of textiles release on 25 Oct 09

Subroto Cup football Tournament :promotes sportsmanship among youngster's

50 years of The Subroto Cup football Tournament

The Subroto Cup football Tournament is organised in India to promote sportsmanship among school and college students. In The tournament, boys interstate States and Union Territories football teams takes part. It is organised for the under-14 and under-17 age category.
The tournament is conducted by the Indian Air Force and it is dedicated to the memory of first Indian Air Chief, late A.M. Subroto Mukherjee.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports supports the Tournament with an annual grant of Rs. 5 lakh. This year the Subroto Cup football Tournament foundation has completed its 50 years. In view of the success, M.S. Gill, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, has sanctioned an additional amount of Rs. 20 lakh to the organizers of the Tournament.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports will attend the Subroto Cup final on the 26th October, 2009.

Courtesy: Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports release on 25 Oct 09.

Death toll status of Influenza A H1N1 related cases reach 444 on 25 Oct 09

Death toll status of Influenza A H1N1 related cases reach 444

The death toll status of Influenza A H1N1 related cases has reached 444 in India. Till date 41775 passengers have been screened at 22 Airports with 83 counters manned by 225 doctors and 172 paramedics. Total passengers screened till date is 7628324.
70650 persons have been tested for Influenza A H1N1 in Government Laboratories and a few private Laboratories across the country and 13370 (18.9%) of them have been found positive.

Courtesy: Ministry of health and Family welfare release on 25 Oct 09

Indo-Bhutan discussion on election management

Indo-Bhutan discussion on election management

Navin B Chawla, The Chief Election Commissioner of India, is leaving New Delhi on 26th October, 2009 for a four-day official visit to Bhutan.

The Election Commissions of India and Bhutan have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) of Cooperation in the field of electoral management and administration that was signed in May 2006.
The main focus of the visit is bilateral discussions in the matter of election management. Mr. Chawla will deliver a talk on “Political Parties: Lessons from Indian Democracy” in capital Thimpu.

Courtesy: Election commission release on 25 Oct 09

Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP): forum in generating awareness among the masses

Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP): forum in generating awareness among the masses

The Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP) is started in 1953 with 32 field publicity units and 4 regional offices as five year plan publicity organisation under the control of the Ministry of I&B. it is renaned in 1959 as Directorate of Field Publicity.
The Field Publicity Units organises variety of publicity techniques such as film shows, song and drama, photo exhibitions, group discussions, seminars, symposia, rallies, rural sports etc to promote and educate the masses, particularly those living in the rural and tribal areas.

The (DFP) has completed it’s golden jubilee.On the occasion, the Directorate is organising a three-day National Workshop which would be inaugurated by Ambika Soni, Honourable Minister of Information & Broadcasting on October 28, 2009.
The Workshop would be held at Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) auditorium in New Delhi. The Workshop would be attended not only by 22 regional heads, 207 field units, UNICEF and WHO.

Choudhory Mohan Jatua, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting a will give away awards to the best field publicity officer/field publicity assistant of respective regions at the valedictory function.

Courtesy: Ministry of Information & Broadcasting release on 26 Oct 09.

Exhibition of Paintings and drawings from the 18th to the early 20th centuries at National Gallery of Modern Art

Exhibition of Paintings and drawings from the 18th to the early 20th centuries at National Gallery of Modern Art

Jawhar Sircar, the secretary, union ministry of culture, has inaugurated an exhibition of the paintings and drawings by western artists from the 18th to the early 20th centuries here on Friday, at the National Gallery of Modern Art, in collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. The exhibition is supported by the World Collections Programme and will later showcase at the Victoria Memorial Kolkata and Salarjung Museum Hyderabad.

The exhibition will be open for public from October 27-December 6, 2009. The exhibition will display 100 drawn works selected from the V&A’s collection by 20 Western artists depicting the architecture, landscape and people of India.
The exhibition will be displayed in four sections.

Courtesy: Ministry of Culture release on 26 Oct 09.

100 Days Action Plan of the Ministry of Urban Development

100 Days Action Plan of the Ministry of Urban Development

S Jaipal Reddy, Union Minister for Urban Development inaugurated a Workshop on Centres of Excellence on Urban Development and Urban Transport on Monday.

The aim of the workshop was to establish Centres of Excellence to improve the financial management of urban local bodies, efficiency in service delivery, effective planning process, citizen interface and public participation, transparency and accountability of the ministry. ]
Setting up of the Centres of Excellence in the country falls under the 100 Days Action Plan of the Ministry of Urban Development.

The Ministry has established 13 Centres of Excellence within reputed academic institutions to introduce valuable research project that will and improve the domain’s technical knowledge practices in the area of municipal service delivery and reform, development of a dynamic integrated land-use planning model, preparation of climate change adaption plan for two cities, development of design guidelines for comprehensive decentralized waste water management systems, preparation of policy research papers etc.

Courtesy: Ministry of Urban Development release on 26 Oct 09.

Various schemes for upliftment of women and child welfare programmes in India

Various schemes for upliftment of women and child welfare programmes in India

Ministry of Women & Child Development, has organised a meeting of State Ministers’ on October 28, 2009, to review certain programmes, schemes and policies related with welfare and development of women and children in India.
The purpose of the meeting is to safeguard the rights, dignity of women and to provide safe and secure environment to the children who are in need of care and protection as well as children in conflict with law

The meeting will be chaired by Krishna Tirath, Minister of Women & Child Development. ,Ministers’ from State Government, officials of various Central Ministries, Child Rights Commission, National Women Commissions and other concerned organizations.

The main topics of discussion would be:
(1)The National Mission on Empowerment of Women

(2) The Integrated child protection scheme (ICPS)’

(3)Empowerment of adolescent girls – SABLA and

(4)Conditional maternity benefits

Courtesy: Ministry of Women & Child Development release on 26 Oct 09.

ICT Ministers meet for speeding-up delivery of e-Services

ICT Ministers meet for speeding-up delivery of e-Services

Over 55,000 Common Service Centres (CSCs) of the 1, 00,000 planned, have been rolled out by various State Governments across the country, under National e-Governance Plan (NeGP). Department of Information Technology (DIT) has prepared a plan to position additional 1, 50,000 CSCs to cover all Panchayats bringing the total number to 2,50,000.

A Raja, the Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology while addressing a conference of ICT Ministers here on Tuesday said these CSCs will deliver services under Bharat Nirman and provide support to other flagship programmes such as National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and National Rural Health Mission etc. Currently more than 100 public services are available online including services pertaining to registration and filing of returns by corporations under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, e-filing of Income Tax returns as well as refunds by Department of Income Tax, e-payment of Direct and Indirect Taxes through 28 National Banks, e-Services for Pensioners through Pensioners’ portal. In addition to these national services, several states have computerised land records to deliver computerized Record of Rights (ROR), registration of property and conversion of paper based driving licenses to Smart Cards. These have brought considerable relief to the common man especially those who reside in rural underserved areas. Raja said, with setting up of CSCs and solving the last mile connectivity hurdle, common man has also to be empowered to reap the benefits. In order to make the access and use of technology and technology enabled services pervasive, the Government has brought out a GNU/ Linux localised desktop distribution, titled Bharat Operating System Solutions (BOSS), targeting to Indian requirements with Indian language support and is expected to meet the various needs of e-Governance and e-Education. In addition to this, both the industry and the Government need to work closely and the participation of industry in this endeavour is necessary to ensure speedy implementation. To offer industry an opportunity to participate in the delivery of public services, the necessary legal framework has already been enabled. The Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008 effectively enables public-private partnership to execute projects in the area of e-Governance quickly and effectively. As a result manifold increase in the interest as well as implementation of e-Governance projects by the industry has been witnessed. MCA21, Passport and CSCs are shining examples of participation by the Industry in the delivery of Public Services. Speaking on the occasion Sachin Pilot, MoS, C&IT called for taking necessary steps to intensify the pace of implementation of NeGP. Referring to challenges related to CSCs and connectivity issue, he said the task of the DIT is to provide broadband access to all CSCs. As there is a direct connection between the broadband connectivity and growth digital inclusion of rural areas will greatly contribute to economy, he added.. Echoing similar sentiments, Secretary, DIT, R Chandrashekhar, said that we are at a very important thresh hold of this exciting journey and have to move fast from creating infrastructure to actually delivering the services so that the citizens can experience the benefit.

Courtesy: Ministry of Communications & Information Technology release on 27 Oct 09.

Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008 comes into force

Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008 comes into force

The Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008 has come into force on Tuesday. The Rules pertaining to section 52 (Salary, Allowances and Other Terms and Conditions of Service of Chairperson and Members), section 54 (Procedure for Investigation of Misbehaviour or Incapacity of Chairperson and Members), section 69 (Procedure and Safeguards for Interception, Monitoring and Decryption of Information), section 69A (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public), section 69B (Procedure and safeguard for Monitoring and Collecting Traffic Data or Information) and notification under section 70B for appointment of the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team have also been notified.

Information Technology Act was enacted in the year 2000 with a view to give a fillip to the growth of electronic based transactions, to provide legal recognition for e-commerce and e-transactions, to facilitate e-governance, to prevent computer based crimes and ensure security practices and procedures in the context of widest possible use of information technology worldwide. Further, a rapid increase in the use of computer and Internet has given rise to new forms of crimes like, sending offensive emails and multimedia messages, child pornography, cyber terrorism, publishing sexually explicit materials in electronic form, video voyeurism, breach of confidentiality and leakage of data by intermediary, e-commerce frauds like cheating by personation - commonly known as phishing, identity theft, frauds on online auction sites, etc.

So, penal provisions were required to be included in the Information Technology Act, 2000. Also, the Act needed to be technology-neutral to provide for alternative technology of electronic signature for bringing harmonization with Model Law on Electronic Signatures adopted by United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Keeping in view the above, Government had introduced the Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2006 in the Lok Sabha on 15th December 2006. Both Houses of Parliament passed the Bill on 23rd December 2008. Subsequently the Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008 received the assent of President on 5th February 2009 and was notified in the Gazette of India.


Courtesy: Ministry of Communications & Information Technology release on 27 Oct 09

PPAC Signs MoU with IEA (26 October)

PPAC Signs MoU with IEA (26 October)

Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell(PPAC), a body under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Paris based International Energy Agency (IEA) on cooperation in oil and gas sector.

Entered in New Delhi recently (23-10-2009), the MoU provides a cooperative framework between the two agencies for exchange of oil and gas market data and statistics. This MoU would also help in exchange of technical experience and expertise in data management and analysis and for conduct of joint studies on global and regional oil and gas markets. By entering into this MoU, PPAC will enrich its knowledge and understanding of the functioning of the oil and gas markets at regional and global level and develop sound analytical techniques. The recurring oil market volatility and resultant uncertainties require accurate analysis. IEA has expertise in data gathering and analysis on oil markets since its inception in 1974.

Courtesy :Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas release on 27 Oct 09

Japan commits Rs.130 crore for Dedicated Freight Corridor Project (Phase-I)

Japan commits Rs.130 crore for Dedicated Freight Corridor Project (Phase-I)

Government of Japan has committed an amount of Rs.130 crore (Yen 2,606 million) at current exchange rate) for the Engineering Services Loan under Dedicated Freight Corridor Project (Phase-I). The objective of the project is to cope with the increase of freight transport demand in India by constructing new dedicated freight railway system, thereby promoting comprehensive regional economic development along the freight corridor, through improvement and modernization of inter-modal logistic system handling considerable freight.

The Notes to this effect were exchanged between Kumar Sanjay Krishna, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Hideaki Domichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, here on Tuesday. India and Japan have had a long and fruitful history of bilateral development cooperation since 1958. In the last few years relations between India and Japan have steadily progressed based on India-Japan Global Partnership. The visits of the Indian Prime Minister to Japan in 2006 and 2008 and the visit of Japanese Prime Minister to India in 2007 have further strengthened the India-Japan Global Partnership by adding greater substance to the bilateral relations based on India-Japan Global Partnership


Courtesy: Ministry of Finance release on 27 Oct 09

State Industry Secretaries meeting to be convened on 30th Oct

State Industry Secretaries meeting to be convened on 30th Oct

To accelerate the process of industrial reforms in India further, a conference of State Industry Secretaries is proposed to be held on 30th October, 2009, in New Delhi. The meeting is being convened in the backdrop of a recently commissioned study by the World Bank on ‘Doing Business (DB) in India’ comparing major Indian cities in terms of ease of starting and operating businesses.

The study shows that while overall there is a need to simplify and reduce our regulatory procedures, there are a number of best practices developed by different states which can be replicated without much difficulty and without significant allocation of resources. According to the study, if each state/city were to adopt the best practices available within the country, India’s rank would improve by as much as 55 positions in the global ranking. This would have a significant impact on the global perception of India as an investment destination.

Since there are several areas of industrial development which fall within the purview of the State Governments, the Dept. of Industrial Policy and Promotion has been conducting meetings from time to time with the States. A number of valuable suggestions for promoting industrial growth emerged from these discussions. These meetings were also followed up with a detailed study of 17 Indian cities with respect to licensing and clearances required for starting and operating a business in India (Doing Business in India 2009), and the launch of the eBiz project to create a one-stop portal for offering investment related services.
Courtesy: Ministry of Commerce and Industry release on 27 Oct 09

India-Nepal sign treaty of Trade & Agreement of Cooperation to Control Unautherized Trade

India-Nepal sign treaty of Trade & Agreement of Cooperation to Control Unautherized Trade

Anand Sharma, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry and Rajendra Mahto, Nepalese Minister of Commerce and Supplies on Tuesday signed the 2009 India-Nepal Treaty of Trade and Agreement of Cooperation to Control Unauthorised Trade.

The 2009 Trade Treaty revises the 1996 Trade Treaty between the two countries. The 1996 Treaty has been a turning point in the trade relations between the two countries and resulted in phenomenal growth of bilateral trade from Rs. 28.1 billion in 1995-96 to Rs. 204.8 billion in 2008-09. While the Nepalese exports to India increased from Rs. 3.7 billion to Rs. 40.9 billion, the Indian exports to Nepal increased from Rs. 24.4 billion to Rs. 163.9 billion during the period -1995- 2009.

After signing the agreement, Sharma said, “There is need to shift the Indo-Nepal trade to the higher level and attain better qualitative dimensions. The opening of new lines of products and duty free access in India will provide further boost to the growing Indo-Nepal Trade”

The 2009 Agreement of Cooperation to Control Unauthorized Trade will allow export of goods imported by Nepal from India to the third countries without necessity of carrying out any manufacturing activity in Nepal. This will enhance exports from Nepal to third countries where it has a better market access as compared to India. Similarly it will allow export of the goods imported by India from Nepal to third countries. This will help Nepalese exporters to take advantage of the third country market access developed by the Indian export houses.

“The revised treaty would help facilitate Trade by opening new land routes for trade between the two countries. The current treaty is expected to provide further access to Nepalese products into India and to enhance and expand bilateral trade between the two countries,”, the Minister further added.

Courtesy: Ministry of Commerce and Industry release on 27 Oct 09.

Ministerial action on 27 Oct 09-MHA advises Indian pilgrims to avoid visiting Pakistan in view of security situation

MHA advises Indian pilgrims to avoid visiting Pakistan in view of security situation

MHA has advised Indian pilgrims to avoid visiting Pakistan in view of deteriorating security situation there. In an advisory, MHA has said that the Government of India is of the view that it is not advisable for the Indian pilgrims to visit Pakistan in the prevailing situation when frequent terrorist attacks are taking place in Punjab province of Pakistan, where all Gurudwara's are situated. Accordingly, the Government advises all Indian citizens to avoid undertaking any visit to Pakistan for this purpose, till the security situation in Pakistan improves

Courtesy: Ministry of Home Affairs release

Expansion of Central Police Forces indicative of inadequacies in State Police: Chidambaram

Expansion of Central Police Forces indicative of inadequacies in State Police: Chidambaram

The Union Home Minister P Chidambaram has said that massive expansion of Central Para-Military Forces is indicative of inadequacies of State Police at a meeting of the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday.
The Home Minister apprised the august gathering that the strength of Central Para-Military Forces is above 8 lakhs. Pointing out that a large number of vacancies exist in state police at lower as well as higher levels, Chidambaram said that the police-population ratio in the country is much lower than the desired level of 220 and there is also wide variation among the States.
He also drew the attention to other problems like outdated equipment and lack of training. He said that inadequacies of police in the States and their over-dependence on the Central Para- Military Forces are not a good sign for the federal structure.

The Union Home Minister informed the meeting that four projects submitted by the Micro Missions, set up under the National Police Mission have been approved for implementation throughout the country. These are :- (1) Community Counselling Centres, which will aim at facilitating an integrated approach towards resolution of conflicts, affecting women, children and other vulnerable sections of the society; (2) Soft Skill Training Module for police personnel for improving the attitude and behavior of police personnel to make them citizen-friendly and service- oriented; (3) Transparent Recruitment Process for ensuring fair, impartial, transparent, objective, tamper-proof, scientific and merit-based recruitment process and (4) Dial 100, which aims at providing prompt and effective incident response management system.

The members who attended the meeting included K Malaisamy, K Keshava Rao, Mahmood A Madani, Raj Mohinder Singh Majitha, Rishang Keishing and Mohd. Ali Khan from the Rajya Sabha and Thokchom Meinya, Monazir Hassan, Rattan Singh Ajnala and Khagen Das, S Alagiri, D B Chandre Gowda, Yogi Adityanath, Kalyan Banerjee, M Venugopala Reddy, J P Aggarwal, Sheesh Ram Ola, Ismail Hussain and Mahabal Mishra from the Lok Sabha. Ministers of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mullappally Ramachandran and Ajay Maken, Union Home Secretary, Secretary Border Management and Director General of Bureau of Police Research & Development were also among those present at the meeting.
Courtesy: Ministry of Home Affairs release on 27 Oct 09

Extremist, fundamentalist and terrorist causes constitute a tiny minority: M Hamid Ansari

While delivering the inaugural address at Second International Conference organised by Jama Masjid United Forum on Tuesday, Vice President of India M Hamid Ansari has said that it is important to remember that those advocating extremist, fundamentalist and terrorist causes constitute a tiny minority. They neither have the religious nor political mandate for their abhorrent actions and ideologies.

He said that a majority of humanity is too poor and is focused on trying to survive. Their vulnerability lies in their poverty; it is this that provides an opportunity to peddlers of extremism. This opportunity gets fructified only because those tasked with political governance and religious and moral leadership have failed.

“The pedigree of terrorism in modern times can be traced to the policies of the colonialists. The label of ‘terrorist’ was liberally used by the British against Indians, Burmese and Malays and by the French against the Algerians. More or less every movement in the modern era had been labeled ‘terrorist’ by different parties – whether it was the Jewish Underground in Mandate Palestine, the ANC in South Africa or various Palestinian groups,” he added.

The Vice President also expressed his concern that it is not thus of recent origin but globalisation and technology has now made it trans-national in reach and devastating in its impact. It has surfaced in most parts of the world and is not country, region or community specific. It has been resorted to by the oppressed as well as the oppressors. It is disruptive of normal life and its principal targets are innocent bystanders. For this reason alone, it is cowardly, unethical and immoral. It cannot be, and has not been, condoned in any belief system and yet at different points of time, adherents of various religions have been labeled as terrorists. Those trying to locate the origin of terrorism in Islam or in any other faith display ignorance of history or downright prejudice.


Courtesy: Vice Presidents Secretariat’s release on 27 Oct 09.

Mukul Wasnik asks senior citizens to exert their rights

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

Mukul Wasnik asks senior citizens to exert their rights

As the elderly population is on the rise and will soon be of considerable size of the total population, Mukul Wasnik, the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment urged the senior citizens to exert their rights for their due place in the society. While inaugurating a Multi Activity Programme “ Reinventing Retirement through Active Ageing organized by National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and Anugraha, he informed that the elderly population in India which was 7.7 crore, as per Census 2001, is projected to be around 9.5 crore in 2011, here on Thursday. He further added that the proportion of elderly in the total population has been increasing in all the countries. In India, it is projected to further go up to 17.3 crore in 2026. Rise in the share of elderly in total population poses multiple challenges. These challenges, however, also come with great opportunities, like for the younger generation, who can utilize the vast repository of knowledge that our elderly possess. Simultaneously, our senior citizens too have to think of ways to creatively and usefully occupy themselves.

Mukul Wasnik said that the enactment of “The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007” has been a major milestone to provide for maintenance, shelter, health and security of senior citizens in the country. Wasnik asked the youth to come forward to celebrate such events as there is a need for in depth sensitivity to reach elderly in order to give them their due respect and sense of connectivity. He urged different organisations that such kind of events should also be celebrated at State and district levels so that all can participate.

The Minister also inaugurated Multi Service Exhibition on Age Care which was followed by a session on Healthy Ageing and Seminar on “Reinventing Retirement through Active Ageing”. The programme concluded with the Intergenerational Cultural Programme which had performances by senior folk artists. Elderly and young artists staged ballet, drama, song and dance sequences from different States of the country. From vibrant bhangra of Punjab to colourful Kalberia dance of Rajasthan, from Chhau dance of Orissa to martial arts of North East, the programme conveyed an important message that elders are custodians of ancient Indian culture and heritage. Apart from Secretary, K M Acharya and other senior officials of the Ministry, Abha Chaudhary, Founder Secretary, Anugraha also attended the function.

Courtesy: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment release

India and Netherlands sign Social Security Agreement to further bilateral ties

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

India and Netherlands sign Social Security Agreement to further bilateral ties

Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and Piet Hein Donner, Dutch Minister of Social Affairs and Employment signed a Social Security Agreement here on Thursday. On the occasion, Ravi said that this agreement will strengthen the bilateral relations and it will enhance cooperation on social security between the two countries. This Social Security Agreement will facilitate the movement of professionals between the two countries. The detached workers sent by Netherlands-based companies to their Indian subsidiaries, or those sent by Indian companies to their branches in the Netherlands will be exempt from social security contribution in the host country for a period of 60 months. While working abroad, these employees will only be subject to the social security regulations of their home country.

This Agreement provides that an employed or self-employed person, other than detached workers shall be subject only to the legislation of the host country. The Agreement provides for portability of the benefits at the time of relocation. It also makes provision for payment of benefits under the legislation of a Contracting State to nationals of the other Contracting State, residing or staying in the territory of a third State, on the same conditions and to the same extent as to nationals of the first Contracting State who reside or stay in the territory of a third State. The Agreement will come into effect after the fulfillment of the national requirements. There are about 21,000 Indians in The Netherlands and there are over 850 Dutch nationals working in India. This bilateral Social Security Agreement will enhance trade and investment between the two countries. India has signed similar agreements with Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg in the recent


Courtesy: Ministry of Overseas Indian affairs release

MTNL looks forward to acquisitions and Greenfield licenses in overseas market

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

MTNL looks forward to acquisitions and Greenfield licenses in overseas market

In the year 2008-09, MTNL is focussing on 3G Service, Broadband, IPTV &VOIP customer base, achieving at least 7, 50, 000 broadband customers, and further expanding its operations through acquisitions and Greenfield licenses in overseas market. Government of India currently holds 56.25% stake in MTNL, which was set up on 1st April, 1986 by the Government of India to update the quality of Telecom Services, telecom network, introduce new services and to raise revenue for telecom development needs of India’s key metros- Delhi and Mumbai.

In the past 21 years the company has emerged as India’s leading and one of Asia’s largest telecom operating companies. Besides having a strong financial base, MTNL has achieved a customer base of 81,82, 133 as on 31st August. 2009. Speaking on the occasion of presentation of dividend cheque for Rs. 35, 43, 72, 740.00 by MTNL here on Thursday, A Raja, the Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology has asked the MTNL to stand before other operators in spite of competitive atmosphere.

In its 23rd AGM held on 25.September.2009 MTNL approved payment of dividend @ 10%, amounting to Rs. 63 crores on the paid up equity capital of Rs. 630 crores, for the financial year 2008-09. Out of Rs. 63 crores, Rs. 35.43 crores were paid to Government of India and Rs. 27.57 crores to others. Handing over the cheque the MTNL CMD R S P Sinha said that MTNL has paid dividend @ 40% during last year. But dividend had to be reduced this time due to rise in expenditure, on account of salary hike and investment in rolling out of 3G Services.

Courtesy: Ministry of Communication and IT release

Matheran Hill Railway Line inspection for World Heritage Site

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

(1) Safety of the passengers is the prime priority: Mamata Banerjee

Mamata Banerjee, Union Minister for railway, reviewed the safety measures in railway operations with the entire railway board on Thursday.

In the meeting, she stated that “the safety of the passengers should continue to be given top priority as safety never sleeps and any laxity on this will not be tolerated”. She also pointed that anyone found wanting on this vital aspect of railway operation will not be spared.
Courtesy: Ministry of railways release
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(2) Matheran Hill Railway Line inspection for World Heritage Site
An expert team of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) led by Dr. Gion Caprez will be visiting India from 24th - 31st October 2009 to evaluate the property of Matheran Light Railway (MLR) for inscription as a World Heritage Site. The team will undertake inspection of steam engine run Matheran Light Railway Train, its railway stations, buildings, sheds, nominated/buffer zones.
Matheran Light Railway, connects Metheran( hill station) with Neral station at the midway of the Mumbai-Pune road. The Neral-Matheran hill railway line has 221 curves with only one small tunnel on the section and endowed with several interesting features of engineering skill. The line climbs 720 meters in zigzag track and the rails used are very light hence the name Matheran Light Railway.

Courtesy: Ministry of railways release

Reconstitution of the Archival Advisory Board (AAB)

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

Reconstitution of the Archival Advisory Board (AAB)

The Archival Advisory Board (AAB) is the apex body to monitor the implementation and review the progress of the Act.
It is constituted on 01.11.1995 and till date ten meetings of AAB have been held.
The Public Records Act in 1993 and the Public Records Rules in 1997 were enacted to regulate the management, administration and preservation of public records of the Indian Government bodies.

The Board consisted of 13 members and is chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Culture with more officials as members than academicians.
AAB is hereby, expanded and reconstituted, to include the experts and academicians in equal proportion with equal status. The reconstituted Board has Prof. Partha Chatterjee, Prof. Nayanjot Lahiri and Dr. R.K.Perti as non-official members and Dr. Shubha Chaudhury, Prof. Majid H. Siddiqui, Prof. Biswanoy Pati, Prof. Lakshmi Subramaniam, Prof. Shahid Amin, Prof. A.R. Venkatachalapathy and Prof. Suranjan Das as special invitees.

Courtesy: Ministry of culture release

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09: Non-plan budgetary support of Rs.72.26 crore towards payment of statutory dues, salary and wages in 10 loss making CP

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

Non-plan budgetary support of Rs.72.26 crore towards payment of statutory dues, salary and wages in 10 loss making CPSEs

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved non-plan budgetary support of Rs.72.26 crore towards statutory dues, salary and wages from 1.4.1009 to 30.06.2009 in respect of following Central Public Sector Enterprises. The approval would mitigate the hardships of the employees thereby motivating them for better output and prepare them to achieve the goal of revival / restructuring for the companies.
Courtesy: Ministry of Heavy industries and public enterprise release

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09: Appointment of Delhi High Court Additional Judge

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

Appointment of Delhi High Court Additional Judge

In exercise of the powers conferred by Clause (1) of Article 224 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint Mukta Gupta, to be an Additional Judge of the Delhi High Court, for a period of two years with effect from the date she assumes charge of her office.

Courtesy: Ministry of law and justice release

26 FDI PROPOSALS APPROVED

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

26 FDI PROPOSALS APPROVED

Based on the recommendations of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) in its meeting held on October 9, 2009, Government has approved 26 Proposals of Foreign Direct Investment amounting to Rs. 1360.52 Crore approximately on Thursday.

Courtesy: Ministry of finance release

Serious effort by developed countries to bring emission within tolerable levels will unleash large resources directed towards research: PM

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

Serious effort by developed countries to bring emission within tolerable levels will unleash large resources directed towards research: PM


Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh in his inaugural address at Conference on ‘Climate Change: Technology Development & Transfer’ pointed out developing countries face critical challenges in enhancing their capacity to adapt to climate change and suitable mechanisms must be found that will provide incentives for developing new technologies while also facilitating their deployment in developing countries at affordable cost.

“In our country, we are deeply conscious of the vulnerability faced by least developed countries and island states. We too have large and vulnerable populations living in our island chains and in low-lying coastal areas. Whatever modest capabilities we possess to tackle this problem will be at the disposal of countries like the Maldives,” said Singh..

The challenge before the developing world is how to achieve our developmental goals while at the same time minimising ecological costs.

Developing countries cannot and will not compromise on development. But as responsible members of the global community they should do their bit to keep emissions footprint within levels that are sustainable and equitable, where technology and its diffusion will be a key element in meeting the challenge of climate change.

“The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change should play a leading role in directing effective and collaborative actions in this vital area, we believe that continuation of the process of incentivising the adoption of climate friendly technologies in developing countries in the second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol should be a priority global concern,” emphasised Singh.

The Clean Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol has proved to be an effective vehicle for promoting sustainable development in many developing countries, while helping developed countries accomplish the abatement of their GHG emissions at lower cost. CDM revenues often take some of the sting out of the risks associated with the introduction and adoption of newer and cleaner technologies.

Climate friendly and environmentally sound technologies should be viewed as global public goods. This implies that the IPR regime applied to those goods should balance rewards for innovators with the need to promote the common good of humankind. Suitable mechanisms must be found that will provide incentives for developing new technologies while also facilitating their deployment in developing countries at affordable cost.

Such an approach has been adopted successfully in the case of pharmaceutical technologies for the benefit of HIV/AIDS victims in developing countries. The moral case of a similar approach for protecting our planet and its life support system is equally compelling.

India has proposed the setting up of an international network of Climate Innovation Centres (CICs) which should act as vehicles for enhancing technology innovation and capacity building in developing countries.

These Centres could assess and identify locally-relevant key technologies and support their successful and faster development and deployment. Each such centre could focus on a key technological product that addresses climate change. Their task may also include addressing the diverse range of capacity, business and regulatory barriers to the development and diffusion of the specific technologies. The CICs in different countries may also cross-fertilize each other by sharing of “learning-by-doing” experience.

India’s development path has been relatively benign from the climate change perspective thus far. The per capita consumption of primary energy is less than one-fourth of the world average and our per capita emission of CO2 is among the lowest in the world. India stand committed to ensure that the per capita carbon emissions will never exceed the average of the per capita carbon emissions of developed countries. Equating GHG emissions across nations on a per capita basis is the only just and fair basis for a long-term global arrangement on climate change which is truly equitable.

“I have no doubt that if developed countries make a serious effort to bring their per capita emissions within tolerable levels, they will unleash large resources directed towards research. This will generate an upsurge of technology that will make it much easier for other countries to follow suit,” said Singh.

Courtesy: Prime Minister Office release

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09: Strengths National Afforestation Programme

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

Strengths National Afforestation Programme

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved the strengthening of the ongoing centrally sponsored scheme of National Afforestation Programme by modifications of components in the Institutional Mechanism and Fund flow, Rationalisation of the cost norms, Value Addition and Marketing of Forest Produce, and Training and Capacity Building.

For more detailed information address an e-mail to sharebloginfo@gmail.com

Courtesy: Ministry of Environment and Forest release

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09: India and Norway signs agreement on Cooperation on Climate Change and Implementation of the Clean Development Mechani

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09

India and Norway signs agreement on Cooperation on Climate Change and Implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism Projects
India and Norway signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Co-operation in the Area of Climate Change and Implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism Projects of the Kyoto Protocol here on Thursday. Jairam Ramesh, the Minister of State for Environment and Forests and Erik Solheim, Minister of the Environment and International Development, Norway signed the MOU. The Agreement would strengthen the efforts to conserve and improve the environment for present and future generations, sustainable development, and implementation of CDM project activities.

The objective of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is to foster co-operation between India and Norway in the area of climate change, by providing a forum for regular bilateral consultations, review the progress of the implementation of the present MOU through regular bilateral consultations, i.e. in the Indo-Norway Joint Working Group on Environment., exchange information and views on a regular basis, among many other initiatives.

Courtesy: Ministry of Environment and Forest release

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09: Courtesy: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs release

Ministerial action on 22 Oct 09: Courtesy: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs release

(1)Continuation of ‘National Biogas and Manure Management Programme’ during the 11th Five Year Plan Period

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday gave its approval for the continuation of ‘National Biogas and Manure Management Programme (NBMMP)’ during the 11th Five Year Plan Period with modified central financial assistance pattern with an expenditure of Rs.562.89 crore.

For more information on special and innovative features for implementation of the NBMMP address an e-mail to sharebloginfo@gmail.com

Courtesy: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs release

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(2)Development of Leather Park – A sub-scheme under Indian Leather Development Programme (ILDP)

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved a sub-scheme titled “Development of Leather Park” with an allocation of Rs 300 crore under Indian Leather Development Programme (ILDP). The outlay of Rs 300 crore would include implementation charges @ 3% of the total outlay of Rs 300 crore i.e. Rs 9 crore. The aim of the sub-scheme is to provide the industry with infrastructure facilities for setting up leather units across product categories at one place in an organised manner and to attract large domestic, joint venture and foreign investments into the Indian Leather Industry. A leather Park set-up under this sub-scheme would cover all sectors of Leather Industry – tannery, all products categories and leather machinery. A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will have to be set up by entrepreneurs for development and management of park and would be the recipient of the assistance under the Scheme.
The SPV would be a company registered under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956. The Scheme would provide a grant of 50 per cent of the expenditure for the common infrastructure, capacity building and engineering and construction supervision subject to a ceiling of Rs.40 crore per park. No support would be provided for land and land development. A Project Monitoring Consultant (PMC) would be appointed for effective implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the projects under the scheme.
Courtesy: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs release
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(3)Non-plan budgetary support of Rs.72.26 crore towards payment of statutory dues, salary and wages in 10 loss making CPSEs

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved non-plan budgetary support of Rs.72.26 crore towards statutory dues, salary and wages from 1.4.1009 to 30.06.2009 in respect of following Central Public Sector Enterprises. The approval would mitigate the hardships of the employees thereby motivating them for better output and prepare them to achieve the goal of revival / restructuring for the companies.

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs release
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(4) CCEA Strengths National Afforestation Programme

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved the strengthening of the ongoing centrally sponsored scheme of National Afforestation Programme by modifications of components in the Institutional Mechanism and Fund flow, Rationalisation of the cost norms, Value Addition and Marketing of Forest Produce, and Training and Capacity Building.

For more detailed information address an e-mail to sharebloginfo@gmail.com

Courtesy: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs release

Ministerial action on 22 Ot 09: Cabinet decisions

(1) Amendments to Article 243 T of the Constitution for enhancing reservation for women in Urban Local Bodies to 50 percent

The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the proposal for moving a Constitutional Amendment Bill for enhancing reservation for women in Urban Local Bodies from one third to fifty percent. This provision will apply to (i) the total number of seats to be filled by direct election, (ii) offices of Chairpersons and (iii) seats and offices of the Chairpersons reserved for SCs and STs. Increased representation of women is likely to yield significant benefits in terms of higher priority to women’s issues in critical areas of urban Governance and service delivery such as water supply, sanitation, solid waste management, education and health.

Courtesy: Cabinet release

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(2) Constitution of 19th Law Commission for a period of three years with effect from 1st September, 2009

The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the constitution of 19th Law Commission for a period of three years with effect from 1st September, 2009 to 31st August, 2012. The Law Commission is headed by a Chairman and consists of three full time Members, Member Secretary and three or more part time Members depending on the nature of Topics referred to the Commission for study. The terms of reference of the 19th Law Commission, include identification of laws, which are in harmony with the existing climate of economic globalisation, exploring suitable measures for equal redressal of citizens grievances related to the field of law, and recommend measures for the protection of the interests of the marginalised, among other important functions.

Courtesy: Cabinet release
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(3) National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM) to make disaster resilient India

The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), which will provide the framework/roadmap for handling disasters in a holistic manner. It has been prepared in tune with and in pursuance of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 with a vision to build a safe and disaster resilient India by developing a holistic, proactive, multi-disaster oriented and technology driven strategy through a culture of prevention, mitigation, preparedness and response. The Policy covers all aspects of disaster management covering institutional, legal and financial arrangements; disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness, techno-legal regime; response, relief and rehabilitation; reconstruction and recovery; capacity development; knowledge management and research and development. It focuses on the areas where action is needed and the institutional mechanism through which such action can be channelized.

Courtesy: Cabinet release
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(4) Strengthening of Fire and Emergency Services in the country
The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the scheme of Ministry of Home Affairs for strengthening of fire and emergency services in the country to be implemented at an estimated cost of Rs 200 crore during the remaining period of Eleventh Five Year Plan (2008-12) with the Center and State contribution in ratio of 75:25 and for North-Eastern States in the ratio of 90:10. The scheme will fill the existing gaps in fire fighting and rescue capability by introduction of modern technology capable of conserving water during fire fighting, better striking power of fire fighting jets, quick fire knock down features and rescue tools for cutting and spreading of steel in collapsed building structure/motor car accidents. Awareness will be created among the masses and school children on fire safety. It will help preparing future plans about up-gradation of fire services in the country.

Courtesy: Cabinet release
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(5) Three new schemes included in the Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities

The Union Cabinet on Thursday decided to include three schemes namely, National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) of the Department of Drinking Water and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns (UIDSSMT) and Urban Infrastructure and Governance (UIG) scheme of the Ministry of Urban Development in the Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme where the flow of fund to minority concentration areas up to the extent of 15% would be monitored. The Cabinet approved inclusion of Mewat district in place of Gurgaon in Haryana as one of the minority concentration districts. The Cabinet also decided to include Members of Parliament and Members of Legislative Assembly in the State and District level committees to monitor the implementation of the 15-point programme. This modification would also make them members in the State and District Level Committees for implementation of Multi-Sectoral Development Programme (MSDP). There has been a steady improvement in the recruitment of minorities in the Central Government and the Public Sector Undertakings since issuing of guidelines by the Department of Personnel and Training on 8th January, 2007 for giving special consideration to the recruitment of minorities.

The percentage of recruitment of minorities which stood at 6.95% in 2006-07 went up to 8.22% in 2007-08 and was 9.18% in 2008-09. In respect of maintenance of Communal Harmony the Ministry of Home Affairs has revised the Communal Harmony guidelines in July, 2008. States/UTs have been advised to submit reports to review the progress of implementation of these guidelines. Under Priority Sector lending, Rs 82864.65 crores, amounting to 12.41% of total lending, was disbursed by the public sector banks to minority communities.

Courtesy: Cabinet release

Sultan Ahmed says CWG 2010 provides excellent opportunity for tourism sector in India

Sultan Ahmed says CWG 2010 provides excellent opportunity for tourism sector in India

The Minister of State for Tourism Sultan Ahmed has said that the Commonwealth Games 2010 will give us an excellent opportunity to convince the global visitors that India provides one of the best experiences for travellers.

Speaking at an award distribution function in hospitality sector on Saturday, Sultan Ahmed said the current tourist season we are entering into will mark revival in business and leisure travels with advancement in economic recovery in various developed countries and will build up momentum to the historic sports event next year.

Courtesy: Ministry of Tourism release

Ministry of Culture Launches Cultural Functions Grant Scheme (CFGS)

Ministry of Culture Launches Cultural Functions Grant Scheme (CFGS)

Ministry of Culture has come up with an enlarged and revised version of the Seminar Grant scheme which may now has been rechristened as called “Cultural Functions Grants Scheme”. Formally, however, it goes under the title “Scheme of Financial Assistance for Seminars, Festivals and Exhibitions on Cultural Subjects by Not-for-Profit Organisations”, for official records. The details of the scheme are available on the Ministry of Culture’s website www.indiaculture.gov.in.

For further information address an e-mail to sharebloginfo@gmail.com

Courtesy: Ministry of Culture release

Veerappa Moily stresses goal oriented action to expedite the justice delivery system

Veerappa Moily stresses goal oriented action to expedite the justice delivery system

While addressing the ‘National Consultation for Strengthening the Judiciary towards reducing pendency and delays’ Veerppa Moily, Union Minister of Law & Justice stated that all the stakeholders should work for goal oriented action to expedite the justice delivery system in the country.

Moily stressed the need for bringing down the pendency of cases in the courts across the country within a time frame. He said that justice delivery system is falling short of the common citizen’s expectations especially the weaker sections of the society and causing a feeling of injustice and alienation among them. He further said that fifty three thousand cases are pending with the Supreme Court, Forty lakh with different High Courts and Two crore Seven lakh cases with Lower Courts up to July 2009.

On this occasion Moily also presented vision statement to Justice K G Balakrishan, Chief Justice of India. The Action Plan include immediate measures for implementations like creation of national arrears grid, identification of arrears, identification of bottlenecks in crises areas, adoption of innovative measures for expeditious case disposal, focus on selection, training and performance assessment of judicial personnel and court management executives and procedural, management and administrative


Courtesy: Ministry of Law & Justice release

India proposes commemorative ship expedition: Exclusive story bloged story by Tanu Sethi

India proposes commemorative ship expedition in on the sea routes developed during the 10th to 12th centuries linking India with South East Asia and East Asia

In his statement at the 7th India-ASEAN summit Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh said,” In 2012, we will be commemorating the 10th anniversary of India’s participation as a summit level partner of ASEAN, and 20 years as a sectoral dialogue partner. These are significant milestones, and deserve careful preparation. We could jointly consider organising a commemorative ship expedition in 2011-12 on the sea routes developed during the 10th to 12th centuries linking India with South East Asia and East Asia. The sea route could cover modern and ancient ports in ASEAN countries, and other East Asian countries.” India would be privileged to host the India-ASEAN Summit meeting in 2012 in India. To ensure a substantive outcome, singh emphasised, “I would further propose that we set up a Joint Task Force to prepare a Vision Statement for India-ASEAN relations up to the year 2020, which takes into account the growing strengths of both the ASEAN countries and India and how we can jointly harness our complementarities and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Asia.” ”Our engagement with the ASEAN countries is a key element of India’s vision of an Asian economic community that is based on an open and inclusive architecture. India wishes to partner ASEAN in realising this vision on the basis of mutual benefit, mutual prosperity and mutual respect.”

Exclusive story bloged by Tanu Sethi on basis of the speech made by Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh's Statement at the 7th India-ASEAN Summit.

India looks forward to early conclusion of negotiations on India-ASEAN Trade-in-Services and Investment Agreement

India looks forward to early conclusion of negotiations on India-ASEAN Trade-in-Services and Investment Agreement

In his statement at the 7th India-ASEAN summit, Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh said, “India’s engagement with the ASEAN is at the heart of our Look East Policy. We are convinced that India’s future and our economic interests are best served by greater integration with our Asian partners.”
The ASEAN region is synonymous with dynamic economic growth. The adoption of the ASEAN Charter in December 2008 is a manifestation of the growing profile of ASEAN in world affairs.

India-ASEAN trade has grown at a healthy rate despite the recent global economic downturn. The volume of trade stood at US$ 48 billion in 2008. Despite the economic downturn, I am confident that we can achieve our bilateral trade target of US$ 50 billion by 2010. With the conclusion of the Trade-in-Goods Agreement, we should aim for an even higher target for our trade turnover.
“The conclusion of the India-ASEAN Trade-in-Goods Agreement in August 2009 is a major first step in our objective of creating an India-ASEAN Regional Trade and Investment Area. The journey was not easy, but we have succeeded in overcoming several difficulties, and this gives us hope for the future,” Singh said, adding, “We attach high importance to the early conclusion of negotiations on the Trade-in-Services and Investment Agreement, and we should direct our officials accordingly.”

Going with the theme of the ASEAN summit, which is Enhancing Connectivity, Empowering Peoples, Singh proposed establishment of an India-ASEAN Round Table, intensification of negotiations on an open skies policy, further simplification of the visa regime to encourage business and tourist travel, a much larger number of youth exchange programmes, and commencement of exchanges of Parliamentarians between India and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, holding an ASEAN Trade and Industrial Exhibition in India in October 2010 or January 2011, enhanced cooperation in the agriculture sector with a view to meeting the challenges of food security, and cooperation in the application of space technologies.


Courtesy: PMO release