Participating in Malabar
U.S., Australian, Indian and Japanese vessels participate in Malabar, an India-led multinational exercise, in the Arabian Sea, Nov. 17, 2020.
Contact for News:Email:punjabscreen@gmail.com//medialink32@gmail.com: Whatsapp: 99153 22407
Showing posts with label india. Show all posts
Showing posts with label india. Show all posts
Friday, November 20, 2020
An India-led multinational exercise
U.S., Australian, Indian and Japanese vessels participate in Malabar, an India-led multinational exercise, in the Arabian Sea, Nov. 17, 2020.
Friday, November 3, 2017
Smog Blankets Upper Indus-Ganga Plain
Heavy traffic also among contributing factors to the pollution
Saturday, July 2, 2016
Sino-Indian war between 2016 to 2018
Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar predicts
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| Sushanta Sadvipra This is the Bridge.. which will be damaged by Chinese force. |
According to predictions of Shrii Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar (A Great Indian philosopher, futurologist and spiritualist of the 20th century) (Otherwise known as Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji to His disciples who consider Him as "Taraka Brahma") India will be invaded for a second time between 2016 to 2018 by China. India was once invaded in the past in 1962.But this time the war will be more severe.China is a State Capitalist who is arming itself not for it's self defence but to occupy other country's lands.China is now facing internal revolts including severe devaluation of the "Yaan" and extreme weather conditions unfit for cultivation.This invasion will be necessitated to divert the severe internal problems and hunger for land by China. Shrii P.R.Sarkar said China will invade India by crossing over Nepal and reach upto the Ganges.There will be a huge refugee influx from north India like never known in history. The Bengals (West Bengal,Bangladesh and Tripura) will be heavily bombed. The effects of such offence on the Bengals will unite the Bangalees who will form a greater Bangalee Samaj to be known as "Bangalisthan". The Yamuna Dam/canal supplying water to Delhi will be bombed and Delhi will be deserted .This war will smash the Aaryan dominance over the societies in India and will bring in new societies without any caste dominance. The war will last for four years.We should,therefore,be in preparedness for handling the refugee problems and attacks from the hostile neighbour. We should also implement the guidelines of the chemical,biological and nuclear disasters of the National Disaster Management Authority,New Delhi from primary school onwards in letter and spirit.India will,however,come out victorious in the long run with the help of the US and Russia.
The past predictions of Shrii P.R. Sarkar were; the disintegration of USSR (Communist Power), Unification of Germanys, Death of Communism, Wars in the Arab worlds,Bottomless crashes of stock markets in the 90s followed by end of Capitalism(He said Communism will fall like a house of cards and capitalism will vanish like a burst of crackers) etc,etc.
- Dr. Dhruba Hojai.
Thoughts of Shrii P.R Sarkar
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
INDIA: Dalits snare trapped
Tue, Oct 21, 2014 at 4:05 PM
A Statement from the Asian Human Rights Commission
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| Two Teenage Untouchable Girls Gang-Raped and Hanged While Police Dismiss Father's Pleas for help |
The recent escalation in atrocities committed on Dalits is surprising even for Bihar, a province notorious for crimes against members of the community. The only things worse than the state’s failure to stop the crimes are the reasons the crimes are being committed.
Can one really burn alive a 15-year-old child for the “crime” of his goats straying into the paddy fields of a so-called upper caste man?
The gory incident in Rohtas is not a standalone one. It follows the gang-rape of six Dalit women on October 9 in Bhojpur and the incident involving more than 150 Dalits getting chased out of their village in Gaya after a member of the community was killed in September.
It is still too early to fear the return of caste-based massacres that once bedevilled Bihar. Yet, the situation is bleak for many reasons. The violence can be attributed, in part, to the changed political scenario. The BharatiyaJanata Party (BJP), considered to be the party representative of the upper castes in the province, deserted the incumbent government led by the Janata Dal United (JD-U), which itself, largely, draws its support from the backward castes and Mahadalits, a term it coined for those worst off amongst the Dalits.
The uneasy, yet successful, alliance between the JD-U and BJP had brought together communities with centuries of animosity and had resulted in a temporary lull in violence against Dalits. That is, to state it differently, while there was no decline in everyday acts of individual atrocities committed on the members of the Dalit community, large-scale organised violence along caste lines had witnessed a decline. And, of course, there were exceptions to this general reality; the community did face occasional collective attacks, such as in the aftermath of killing of Brahmeshwar Singh, alias Mukhyia, the head of notorious upper caste militia, blamed for many Dalit massacres.
The alliance had compelled erstwhile warring communities to share space without reconciliation, without dealing with past animosities. The upper castes in the alliance saw it as a political necessity – to keep the other backward castes away from power, after having a government more representative of their interests On the other hand, the marginalised saw it as a way to maintain their claim on state resources. However, the then chief minister, and JD-U’s top leader, Nitish Kumar’s dogged refusal to accept Narendra Modi as prime ministerial candidate unravelled the alliance and exposed the fault lines of old animosities and atrocities.
It is in this context that the state is witnessing a renewed cycle of atrocities committed on the community, often on the flimsiest of the grounds, i.e. grounds that would have earlier been ignored by the same criminals. The fact that few of the perpetrators get caught and punished for such crimes emboldens them. If one go by the recent verdicts of the High Court of Bihar, it would, perhaps, be the only place in the world where pogroms and massacres have been found committed by no one. This is the refrain in case after case, be it Bathani Tola massacre case of 21 Dalits, which witnessed the acquittal of the 23 accused that were convicted by a lower court, or the Nagri massacre case involving the killing of 11 Dalits, or the Lakshmanpur Bathe massacre case of involving 26 deaths, or even the Mianpur massacre case which saw the killing of 9 Dalits. All the accused have been acquitted for lack of evidence.
The acquittals were bound to create tension and re-open wounds, and that they did. These acquittals also emboldened the upper castes to attempt a reclamation of their political control in the state from the other backward castes and Dalits.
Unfortunately, the response to the renewed wave of attacks from the political leadership has been inadequate. The state administration keeps failing to enforce the rule of law and punish the perpetrators of caste violence to deter others. The BJP, on its part, has kept quiet on the increasing attacks, to ensure that its core support base remains unoffended.
And, this is precisely what makes the threat of further escalation in violence loom large. The way forward is to ensure that those guilty of committing such heinous crimes do not get away scot-free and for political will to be mobilized to normalise relations.
# # #
About AHRC: The Asian Human Rights Commission is a regional non-governmental organisation that monitors human rights in Asia, documents violations and advocates for justice and institutional reform to ensure the protection and promotion of these rights. The Hong Kong-based group was founded in 1984.
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Dalit Aarthik Adhikar Yatra
Dalit Communities demand legitimate budget
allocation and legislation on SCSP
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| Courtesy Photo |
New Delhi: We are glad to inform you all through
all your constant support and companionship Dalit Adhikar Andolan-
National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (DAAA- NCDHR) in association with
dozens of Network organization is organizing Week long DALIT ARTHIK ADHIKAR
YATRA in the state of Delhi from 22-28th March with the following objectives -
- Awareness on SCSP and Schemes
- Discussion on community needs on SCSP in Delhi.
- Collection of Budget demands from community
- Demand raising for 2014-2015 budget in Delhi
- Demand raising for Legislation on SCSP
- Needs for Sectoral development of Dalits and
Other Poors.
- Preparation of Community road map for Total
economic liberation through SCSP.
Many leaders, individuals, and civil societies
working on the issue claimed that provision should be made under Scheduled
Caste Sub Plan (SCSP).
At the same time,
Dalit communities demanded that population proportion based resources should be
allocated for SCs with clear gender equity component earmarking 50% share for
SC women from SCP. The Ministries/Departments should be directed to give
priority attention to the development and empowerment of SC relating to
reproductive health care, basic livelihood, access to land, education,
employment, skill capacitating and social security. The gender dimension should
run through not only in the programmes meant for SC women and girl children but
also in the general schemes, projects and programmes meant for all SCs.
During the week long yatra, will cover more than 35 Slums and
Dalit Locations in Delhi to raise the concerns and issues related to
Dalits and city Makers .The proposed yatra will be having a caravan and
constant meetings with the communities , press interactions , Meeting
with CSOs and others for the better enforcement of SCSP and TSP in delhi .
Yatra will be begin from Thyagraj Stadium ( near
INA ) one of the stadium made in CWG 2010, on 22nd March at 9.00 am. and
will end and culminate on 27th. March in-front of LG Office, Civil Lines in
Delhi .
As part of the campaign,
National Coalition on SCP TSP Legislation (NACSTL), Shahri Adhikar Manch-Begharon Ke Sath, Delhi Solidarity Group, Nazdeek, Housing and Land Rights Network, Jhuggi Jhopadi Ekta Manch, Matri Sudha, Dalit Foundation, Ideal Youth Club, Baljeet Nagar, Dalit Christian Society, Prasar, Labour and Education Development Society, Centre for Social Equity and Inclusion, National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights, Dalit Arthik Adhikar Andolan.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Indo-Pak Calendar Launch on 21st December, Saturday
Fri, Dec 20, 2013 at 2:19 PM
We, Aaghaz-e-Dosti group invite you
We, Aaghaz-e-Dosti group invite you in our Indo-Pak Calendar Launch that is scheduled on 21st December, Saturday.
As you know this is our second year of Indo-Pak Calendar Launch and a discussion 'Sharing of Hopes'. This calendar launch will be organized at Islamabad also on 24th December.
We are working gradually but consistently with all efforts towards Indo-Pak Peace and Friendship. Started by Mission Bhartiyam, an India based organization, the initiative has collaborators in Pakistan named The Catalyst and CYDA. We all together are trying to enhance people to people contact and to establish a bond of understanding and love for each other.
Details of program are given here:
Launch of 'Calendar of Peace & Love-2014'
&
'Sharing of Hopes' - A discussion on Indo-Pak Peace
India International Center (main building)
21 Dec: 2 to 5 PM
Speakers:
Jawed Naqvi (Correspondent - Dawn, Pakistan at New Delhi)
Pankaj Singh (Eminent poet, Member of Foundation of SAARC writers)
Sonia Fatah (A Pakistani filmmaker, columnist with Times of India)
Satya Pal (Peace activist, Secretary General-South Asian Fraternity)
Prof (Dr.) D. S. Rana (Chairman- Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, that is first established in 1921 at Lahore and then in 1954 at New Delhi)
Contact
Ravi Nitesh
9958907799
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
PHD Chamber- PITEX- Punjab-International Trade-Expo
Ø PHD- PITEX GENERATES BUSINESS QUERIES WORTH 260 CRORES
Ø OVER 2.5 LAKH VISIT PHD-PITEX IN 5 DAYS
Ø PHD- PITEX, 2014 SCHEDULED FROM 4TH TO 8THDECEMBER, 2014
AMRITSAR: 9 December 2013: (Gajinder Singh King//Punjab Screen):
“Keeping up the tradition, PHD –Punjab International Trade Expo, this edition too has been able to generate business queries worth more than 260 crores”, said Dalip Sharma on the final day of the 5 day trade and cultural extravaganza.
“Over 2.3 Lakh have already visited PHD-PITEX till this time. Looking at the rush at this time, we are expecting another 30-40,000 more visitors by the end of the day”, shared Sharma.
Looking at the response, we have decided to organize the 9thedition of PHD-PITEX from 4th to 8th December next year, informed Sharma.
Showing satisfaction over the five day event, Sharma said, “It could not have been possible without the all- out support from the Punjab government and the Amritsar administration.”
The participation of 8 Chambers of Pakistan viz Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sheikhpura Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jhang Chamber of Commerce, Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the trade counselors from Poland, Taiwan, British Columbia, American Business Center representing USA and Bangladesh gave a B2B touch to the whole event.
The visiting international delegates held rounds of B2B talks with the industry and trade counterparts from the region over the past four days.
Last year, too, informed Sharma Interwoods Mobel Private Ltd. From Pakistan, who had joined PITEX for the first time, entered into a joint venture with Sinochem Pvt. Ltd. from India and set up IWM Interwood Mobel Pvt. Ltd.
Likewise, the regular exhibitor in PITEX, Master Group of Industries Lahore, has set up their showroom in Amritsar. Another brand, quipped Khursheed Barlas, CEO, Pak World Trade Center, the PITEX exhibitor Attractions by Kamal Fabrics from Faisalabad, Pakistan, is planning its first outlet in New Delhi shortly which would be followed by Amritsar later.
At the time of the issue of release, people swarmed stalls in each of the 8 hangars. Jewellery, Pakistani fabrics, phulkari items, gujrati handicrafts, jute items, crockery area a rage among women, while Pakistani juttis, bosky from Pakistan are a big hit with the men.
Blankets, quilts, fancy lights, gift items, gajjak from Rajasthan, Hing and kesar from Iran, are other big hits.
“The event should be extended to another day or so. Because of the huge rush, we have not been able to visit all the hangars properly”, said a visitor at PITEX.
“The last two days saw good rush but today, it is sea of visitors here and we are having good business”, said a beaming Gul Ahmed, a Pak exhibitor.
Ø OVER 2.5 LAKH VISIT PHD-PITEX IN 5 DAYS
Ø PHD- PITEX, 2014 SCHEDULED FROM 4TH TO 8THDECEMBER, 2014
“Keeping up the tradition, PHD –Punjab International Trade Expo, this edition too has been able to generate business queries worth more than 260 crores”, said Dalip Sharma on the final day of the 5 day trade and cultural extravaganza.
“Over 2.3 Lakh have already visited PHD-PITEX till this time. Looking at the rush at this time, we are expecting another 30-40,000 more visitors by the end of the day”, shared Sharma.
Looking at the response, we have decided to organize the 9thedition of PHD-PITEX from 4th to 8th December next year, informed Sharma.
Showing satisfaction over the five day event, Sharma said, “It could not have been possible without the all- out support from the Punjab government and the Amritsar administration.”
The participation of 8 Chambers of Pakistan viz Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sheikhpura Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jhang Chamber of Commerce, Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the trade counselors from Poland, Taiwan, British Columbia, American Business Center representing USA and Bangladesh gave a B2B touch to the whole event.
The visiting international delegates held rounds of B2B talks with the industry and trade counterparts from the region over the past four days.
Last year, too, informed Sharma Interwoods Mobel Private Ltd. From Pakistan, who had joined PITEX for the first time, entered into a joint venture with Sinochem Pvt. Ltd. from India and set up IWM Interwood Mobel Pvt. Ltd.
Likewise, the regular exhibitor in PITEX, Master Group of Industries Lahore, has set up their showroom in Amritsar. Another brand, quipped Khursheed Barlas, CEO, Pak World Trade Center, the PITEX exhibitor Attractions by Kamal Fabrics from Faisalabad, Pakistan, is planning its first outlet in New Delhi shortly which would be followed by Amritsar later.
At the time of the issue of release, people swarmed stalls in each of the 8 hangars. Jewellery, Pakistani fabrics, phulkari items, gujrati handicrafts, jute items, crockery area a rage among women, while Pakistani juttis, bosky from Pakistan are a big hit with the men.
Blankets, quilts, fancy lights, gift items, gajjak from Rajasthan, Hing and kesar from Iran, are other big hits.
“The event should be extended to another day or so. Because of the huge rush, we have not been able to visit all the hangars properly”, said a visitor at PITEX.
“The last two days saw good rush but today, it is sea of visitors here and we are having good business”, said a beaming Gul Ahmed, a Pak exhibitor.
PHD Chamber- PITEX- Punjab-
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Prime Minister’s media statement
11-September-2013 14:0 IST
During the State Visit of President of Liberia to India
Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s media statement during the State Visit of President of Liberia to India:
“It is a great honour to welcome President Sirleaf on her first state visit to India. Her voice is heard with great respect in Africa and throughout the world. Her vision and leadership have contributed to Liberia’s political transformation, economic resurgence and progress towards peace and stability in the region. We are honoured that she has accepted the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2012, which will be conferred on her tomorrow by our President.
India and Liberia enjoy warm and friendly relations. Our official exchanges, trade and investment linkages and people-to-people interactions are growing steadily. President Sirleaf and I have reviewed our relations and pledged to work together to realize the full potential of our partnership.
We have decided to enhance our cooperation in a number of areas, including agricultural research, healthcare, small and medium enterprises, science & technology, education and skill development. A new Joint Commission will guide and review progress in our bilateral cooperation. The Memorandum of Understanding signed today for cooperation in the oil and gas sector will enable our two countries to undertake structured cooperation in this vital area, where India’s experience can be of some relevance to Liberia.
There is great potential to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations between our two countries. Indian investments in Liberia, especially in the mining sector, are growing. I requested President Sirleaf to facilitate Indian investment in agriculture, infrastructure, hydrocarbon, mining and manufacturing in line with Liberia’s national development goals and policies.
In recent years, India has participated in Liberia’s development effort through human resource and capacity building support. Our decision to sign a line of credit agreement of 144 million US dollars this morning, to fund a power transmission and distribution project in Liberia, will further enhance our engagements. We will also enhance scholarships and training slots under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme for Liberia. India will be setting up an Information Technology Centre, a Vocational Training Centre, a Farm Science Centre and a Training Centre for Women in the field of solar energy in Liberia.
We also exchanged views on the India-Africa Forum Summit in pursuit of our shared objective to build a robust and contemporary India-Africa partnership.
Our two countries have agreed to work together for the promotion of international peace and stability, particularly on the African continent, and to make common cause to ensure that global governance is just and meets the aspirations of the developing world. We also exchanged views on global and regional issues, including the urgent need for reform of the United Nations Security Council. India deeply appreciates Liberia’s support for our candidature as a permanent member of a reformed and expanded Security Council.
President Sirleaf’s visit has imparted fresh impetus to our joint efforts to strengthen our bilateral relations. Our talks today have laid a strong foundation for closer political understanding and deepening of our economic exchanges in the coming years.” (PIB)
***
SC/NK
During the State Visit of President of Liberia to India
Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s media statement during the State Visit of President of Liberia to India:
“It is a great honour to welcome President Sirleaf on her first state visit to India. Her voice is heard with great respect in Africa and throughout the world. Her vision and leadership have contributed to Liberia’s political transformation, economic resurgence and progress towards peace and stability in the region. We are honoured that she has accepted the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2012, which will be conferred on her tomorrow by our President.
India and Liberia enjoy warm and friendly relations. Our official exchanges, trade and investment linkages and people-to-people interactions are growing steadily. President Sirleaf and I have reviewed our relations and pledged to work together to realize the full potential of our partnership.
We have decided to enhance our cooperation in a number of areas, including agricultural research, healthcare, small and medium enterprises, science & technology, education and skill development. A new Joint Commission will guide and review progress in our bilateral cooperation. The Memorandum of Understanding signed today for cooperation in the oil and gas sector will enable our two countries to undertake structured cooperation in this vital area, where India’s experience can be of some relevance to Liberia.
There is great potential to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations between our two countries. Indian investments in Liberia, especially in the mining sector, are growing. I requested President Sirleaf to facilitate Indian investment in agriculture, infrastructure, hydrocarbon, mining and manufacturing in line with Liberia’s national development goals and policies.
In recent years, India has participated in Liberia’s development effort through human resource and capacity building support. Our decision to sign a line of credit agreement of 144 million US dollars this morning, to fund a power transmission and distribution project in Liberia, will further enhance our engagements. We will also enhance scholarships and training slots under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme for Liberia. India will be setting up an Information Technology Centre, a Vocational Training Centre, a Farm Science Centre and a Training Centre for Women in the field of solar energy in Liberia.
We also exchanged views on the India-Africa Forum Summit in pursuit of our shared objective to build a robust and contemporary India-Africa partnership.
Our two countries have agreed to work together for the promotion of international peace and stability, particularly on the African continent, and to make common cause to ensure that global governance is just and meets the aspirations of the developing world. We also exchanged views on global and regional issues, including the urgent need for reform of the United Nations Security Council. India deeply appreciates Liberia’s support for our candidature as a permanent member of a reformed and expanded Security Council.
President Sirleaf’s visit has imparted fresh impetus to our joint efforts to strengthen our bilateral relations. Our talks today have laid a strong foundation for closer political understanding and deepening of our economic exchanges in the coming years.” (PIB)
***
SC/NK
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
| ||||
Courtroom Victory!
New Policy on Harassment and Non-discrimination in Place.
New Policy on Harassment and Non-discrimination in Place.
Highlights
- UNITED SIKHS advocated for policy amendments after Sikh was asked to remove turban in courtroom.
- The Pike County Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual now includes the harassment and non-discrimination policy.
- Civil Rights Complaint was filed with the Department of Justice(DOJ) after which policy was voted into place by Pike County Board of Supervisors. It is applicable to all Pike County employees.
- A copy of the new policy can be viewed by clicking here.
“I was in Mississippi, a place far away from my home in California when the two unfortunate incidents happened- First my arrest for wearing a Kirpan, and later, the shocking incident where I was escorted out of the courtroom by several Highway Patrolmen and asked to remove my turban because the judge didn’t like it. If it were not for UNITED SIKHS timely help, my situation could have become worse. They came to my rescue both times, provided all legal assistance and ensured that my issues were taken care of. I can’t thank them enough. Also, I am extremely happy that their efforts have borne fruit in that a new Harassment and Non-Discrimination policy has been put into place for all Pike County employees. This is a great achievement. I am very happy that no other devout Sikh, Jew, Muslim or person of any other faith who wears religious head covering will have to undergo what I had to in Pike County, Mississippi."On March 26, 2013, Jagjeet Singh, an amritdhari (initiated) Sikh, appeared for a hearing at the Pike County Justice Court in Magnolia, Mississippi, but was escorted out of the courtroom on the orders of a judge by several highway patrolmen. The patrolmen asked Mr.Singh to either remove his “hat” or not enter the courtroom because the judge didn’t like it. Mr.Singh refused to remove his dastaar (turban).
The events leading to this court hearing were also distasteful. Mr.Singh was initially stopped and detained because his truck had a burst tire, but was arrested for not obeying the officer’s orders to remove his kirpan (small sheathed ceremonial sword). His pleas not to remove, or force him to remove his kirpan and his explanation about its religious importance were ignored. Singh also reports being mistreated and mocked at by the detaining officers.
Our legal team worked together with local counsel in Mississippi who were engaged by UNITED SIKHS to represent Mr.Singh at his court hearing. Our counsel negotiated with the local prosecutor and the arresting officer not to pursue any charges and so, Mr.Singh was released. But what transpired in court that day was shocking- Singh was asked to remove his dastaar (turban). He was in the present situation because he had stood up for his freedom of religion, for his mandated religious practices and he was again put in a similar situation when the judge asked for this dastaar (turban) to be removed.
The efforts and support of local counsel, Ms.LeeAnn Slipher, are much appreciated as she stood up for her client. Slipher became a witness to the incident for the record, and was extremely supportive during Mr.Singh's ordeal in court.
UNITED SIKHS would also like to thank the DOJ Civil Rights Division, especially Mr. Michael Mule’ for handling this matter and for working towards ensuring a positive outcome thus avoiding further discriminatory incidents like these.
You can read the policy here.
“This policy is a step in the right direction and a great achievement not only for Sikhs, but for people of all faiths. It should work to ensure that nobody is discriminated against because of his/her outward religious appearance and genuine religious beliefs,” said UNITED SIKHS’ Staff Attorney Manmeet Singh.
We also extend our gratitude to American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) President Ms. Susan Herman, ACLU Senior Staff Attorney Ms. Heather Weaver, and Legal Director of ACLU Mississippi Ms.Bear Atwood who have been very supportive and are working with us on further matters related to this case.
We encourage you to practice your faith fearlessly. We humbly request you to support us so we can continue to fight for everyone’s right to identity.
You may read a previous report on UNITED SIKHS' advocacy for the Sikh community here.
For media inquiries, please contact media-usa@unitedsikhs.org
Issued By:
Manmeet Singh
Staff Attorney, International Civil and Human Rights Advocacy (ICHRA)
Tel: 1-646-688-3525
law@unitedsikhs.org
www.unitedsikhs.org
Contact us | Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
A look inside UNITED SIKHS-
UNITED SIKHS serves in the fields of:
Sikh-Aid:The Sikh Aid team provides non-partisan global humanitarian disaster relief services, which not only provide immediate aid but also rehabilitation help to the needy.
International Civil and Human Rights Advocacy (ICHRA): Standing up for and helping protect the civil and human rights of minorities and marginalized groups in the Americas, Europe and Asia.
Community Empowerment and Education Division (CEED):Empowering individuals and groups to attain their full potential and become active participants in society through Education, Training and Community development projects. They take their place in the decision-making processes in their local community as well as in the international arena.
Do You Have What it Takes?
View Our Volunteers Video Diary
View Our Volunteers Video Diary
Our Mission
To transform underprivileged and minority communities and individuals into informed and vibrant members of society through civic, educational and personal development programs, by fostering active participation in social and economic activity.
UNITED SIKHS is also an avenue for networking between like-minded organisations to establish and nurture meaningful projects and dialogues - whether social, cultural or political- to promote harmony, understanding and reciprocity in our villages, towns and cities.
UNITED SIKHS is a coalition of organisations and individuals, who share a common vision based on the belief that there is no greater endeavour than to serve, empower and uplift fellow beings. The core of our philosophy is an unwavering commitment to civic service and social progress on behalf of the common good.
Accordingly, UNITED SIKHS has sought to fulfil its mission not only by informing, educating and uplifting fellow beings but also by participating in cross-cultural and political exchanges to ensure that the promises and benefits of democracy are realized by all.
We at UNITED SIKHS believe that the development of enlightened and progressive societies can be made possible by socially conscious groups of people who make a commitment to develop and direct human potential. Our work, efforts and achievements stand as a testament to our faith in this vision.
UNITED SIKHS is also an avenue for networking between like-minded organisations to establish and nurture meaningful projects and dialogues - whether social, cultural or political- to promote harmony, understanding and reciprocity in our villages, towns and cities.
UNITED SIKHS is a coalition of organisations and individuals, who share a common vision based on the belief that there is no greater endeavour than to serve, empower and uplift fellow beings. The core of our philosophy is an unwavering commitment to civic service and social progress on behalf of the common good.
Accordingly, UNITED SIKHS has sought to fulfil its mission not only by informing, educating and uplifting fellow beings but also by participating in cross-cultural and political exchanges to ensure that the promises and benefits of democracy are realized by all.
We at UNITED SIKHS believe that the development of enlightened and progressive societies can be made possible by socially conscious groups of people who make a commitment to develop and direct human potential. Our work, efforts and achievements stand as a testament to our faith in this vision.
Friday, August 30, 2013
PM’s statement in the Lok Sabha
30-August-2013 13:35 IST
PM on the current economic situation
Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s statement in the Lok Sabha, on the current economic situation in the country:
“The movement of the exchange rate of the Indian Rupee recently has been a matter of concern. The Rupee has depreciated sharply against the dollar since the last week of May. There are concerns, and justifiably so, of the impact this would have on our economy.
What triggered the sharp and sudden depreciation was the markets’ reaction to certain unexpected external developments. On May 22, 2013, the US Federal Reserve Bank indicated that it would soon ‘taper’ its quantitative easing as the US economy was recovering. This led to a reversal of capital flows to emerging economies which are now sharply pulling down not just the Rupee, but also the Brazilian Real, the Turkish Lira, the Indonesian Rupiah, the South African Rand and many other currencies.
While global factors such as tensions over Syria and the prospect of U.S. Federal Reserve tapering its policy of quantitative easing have caused general weaknesses in emerging market currencies, the rupee has been especially hit because of our large current account deficit and some other domestic factors. We intend to act to reduce the current account deficit and bring about an improvement in the functioning of our economy.
In 2010-11 and the years prior to it, our current account deficit was more modest and financing it was not difficult, even in the crisis year of 2008-09. Since then, there has been a deterioration, mainly on account of huge imports of gold, higher costs of crude oil imports and recently, of coal. On the export side, weak demand in our major markets has kept our exports from growing. Exports have been further hit by a collapse in iron ore exports. Taken together, these factors have made our current account deficit unsustainably large.
Clearly we need to reduce our appetite for gold, economise in the use of petroleum products and take steps to increase our exports.
We have taken measures to reduce the current account deficit. The Finance Minister has indicated that it will be below $ 70 billion this year, and we will take all possible steps to ensure that outcome. These are already showing results with a declining trade deficit in both June and July. The Government is confident that we will be able to lower our current account deficit to $70 billion. Our medium term objective is to reduce the current account deficit to 2.5% of our GDP. Our short term objective is to finance the current account deficit in an orderly fashion. We will make every effort to maintain a macro economic framework friendly to foreign capital inflows to enable orderly financing of the current account deficit.
Coming back to the effects of the Rupee depreciation, we must realise that part of this depreciation was merely a needed adjustment. Inflation in India has been much higher than in the advanced countries. Therefore, it is natural that there has to be a correction in the exchange rate to account for this difference. To some extent, depreciation can be good for the economy as this will help to increase our export competitiveness and discourage imports.
There are many sectors which are regaining competitiveness in export markets as a result of the fall in the exchange rate. Over the next few months, I expect the effects of this to be felt more strongly, both in exports and in the financial position of exporting sectors. This in itself would correct the current account deficit to some extent.
However, foreign exchange markets have a notorious history of overshooting. Unfortunately this is what is happening not only in relation to the Rupee but also other currencies.
The RBI and Government have taken a number of steps to stabilize the rupee. Some measures have given rise to doubts in some quarters that capital controls are on the horizon. I would like to assure the House and the world at large, that the Government is not contemplating any such measures. The last two decades have seen India grow as an open economy and we have benefitted from it. There is no question of reversing these policies just because there is some turbulence in capital and currency markets. The sudden decline in the exchange rate is certainly a shock, but we will address this through other measures, not through capital controls or by reversing the process of reforms. The Finance Minister has clarified this matter at length, and I take this opportunity to reaffirm our position.
Ultimately, the value of the rupee is determined by the fundamentals of our economy. While we have taken a number of actions to strengthen those fundamentals, we intend to do more.
Growth has slowed down in recent quarters. I expect growth in the first quarter of 2013-14 to be relatively flat, but as the effects of the good monsoon kick in, I expect it to pick up. There are many reasons for this optimism. The decisions of the Cabinet Committee on Investment in reviving stalled projects will start bearing fruit in the second half of the year. The full effects of the growth friendly measures that have been taken over the last six months, such as liberalizing norms for Foreign Direct Investment, resolution of some tax issues of concern to industry and fuel subsidy reform will come into play over the year resulting in higher growth particularly in manufacturing. Exports are also starting to look up as the growth performance of the rest of the world is showing signs of improvement. So I believe growth will pick up in the second half of the fiscal year barring extreme unforeseen eventualities.
There are questions about the size of the fiscal deficit. The government will do whatever is necessary to contain the fiscal deficit to 4.8% of GDP this year. The most growth-friendly way to contain the deficit is to spend carefully, especially on subsidies that do not reach the poor, and we will take effective steps to that end.
Inflation measured by the Wholesale Price Index has been coming down, even though inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index is still too high. The depreciation of the rupee and rise in dollar prices of petroleum products will no doubt lead to some further upward pressure on prices. The Reserve Bank will therefore continue to focus on bringing down inflation. The favourable monsoon and the anticipated good harvest will help bring down food prices and ease the task of controlling inflation.
All in all, the macro-stabilization process which should support the value of the rupee is under way. I expect that as the fruits of our efforts materialize, currency markets will recover.
Even while we go about doing what is necessary, it is important to recognize that the fundamentals of the Indian economy continue to be strong. India’s overall public-debt to GDP ratio has been on a declining trend from 73.2% of GDP in 2006-07 to 66% in 2012-13. Similarly, India’s external debt is only 21.2% of our GDP and while short-term debt has risen, it stands at no more than 5.2% of our GDP. Our foreign exchange reserves stand at US$278bn, and are more than sufficient to meet India’s external financing requirements.
Many foreign analysts worry about banking problems that may arise in the wake of the currency crisis. The Indian banking sector has seen some rise in bad loans. The question that needs to be asked is whether there is a liquidity problem or a solvency problem for the borrowers. My belief is that there is a liquidity problem. Many of the projects are not unviable but only delayed, in contrast to the overbuilding that has characterized the banking sector problems in many other countries. As these projects come on stream, they will generate revenue and repay loans. Our banks are fortunately well capitalized much above the Basel norms and they have the capacity to provide for any non-performing assets until those assets are turned around.
The easy reforms of the past have been done. We have the more difficult reforms to do such as reduction of subsidies, insurance and pension sector reforms, eliminating bureaucratic red tape and implementing Goods and Services Tax. These are not low hanging fruit and they need active political consensus.
It is here that I urge Honourable Members across the political spectrum to reflect on the need of the hour. Many laws that are necessary are held up for lack of political consensus. Reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax, which everyone agrees is essential to restore growth and boost revenues, require States to come to an agreement. We need to forge consensus on such vital issues. I urge political parties to work towards this end and to join in the government’s efforts to put the economy back on the path of stable, sustainable growth.
There may be short term shocks to our economy and we need to face them. That is the reality of operating in a globalised economy, whose benefits we have reaped over the last 15 to 20 years. We will need to ensure that the fundamentals of the economy remain strong so that India continues to grow at a healthy rate for many years to come. That we will ensure. We are no doubt faced with important challenges, but we have the capacity to address them. It is at times like these that the nation shows what it is truly capable of.”
******
SC/NK
PM on the current economic situation
Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s statement in the Lok Sabha, on the current economic situation in the country:
“The movement of the exchange rate of the Indian Rupee recently has been a matter of concern. The Rupee has depreciated sharply against the dollar since the last week of May. There are concerns, and justifiably so, of the impact this would have on our economy. What triggered the sharp and sudden depreciation was the markets’ reaction to certain unexpected external developments. On May 22, 2013, the US Federal Reserve Bank indicated that it would soon ‘taper’ its quantitative easing as the US economy was recovering. This led to a reversal of capital flows to emerging economies which are now sharply pulling down not just the Rupee, but also the Brazilian Real, the Turkish Lira, the Indonesian Rupiah, the South African Rand and many other currencies.
While global factors such as tensions over Syria and the prospect of U.S. Federal Reserve tapering its policy of quantitative easing have caused general weaknesses in emerging market currencies, the rupee has been especially hit because of our large current account deficit and some other domestic factors. We intend to act to reduce the current account deficit and bring about an improvement in the functioning of our economy.
In 2010-11 and the years prior to it, our current account deficit was more modest and financing it was not difficult, even in the crisis year of 2008-09. Since then, there has been a deterioration, mainly on account of huge imports of gold, higher costs of crude oil imports and recently, of coal. On the export side, weak demand in our major markets has kept our exports from growing. Exports have been further hit by a collapse in iron ore exports. Taken together, these factors have made our current account deficit unsustainably large.
Clearly we need to reduce our appetite for gold, economise in the use of petroleum products and take steps to increase our exports.
We have taken measures to reduce the current account deficit. The Finance Minister has indicated that it will be below $ 70 billion this year, and we will take all possible steps to ensure that outcome. These are already showing results with a declining trade deficit in both June and July. The Government is confident that we will be able to lower our current account deficit to $70 billion. Our medium term objective is to reduce the current account deficit to 2.5% of our GDP. Our short term objective is to finance the current account deficit in an orderly fashion. We will make every effort to maintain a macro economic framework friendly to foreign capital inflows to enable orderly financing of the current account deficit.
Coming back to the effects of the Rupee depreciation, we must realise that part of this depreciation was merely a needed adjustment. Inflation in India has been much higher than in the advanced countries. Therefore, it is natural that there has to be a correction in the exchange rate to account for this difference. To some extent, depreciation can be good for the economy as this will help to increase our export competitiveness and discourage imports.
There are many sectors which are regaining competitiveness in export markets as a result of the fall in the exchange rate. Over the next few months, I expect the effects of this to be felt more strongly, both in exports and in the financial position of exporting sectors. This in itself would correct the current account deficit to some extent.
However, foreign exchange markets have a notorious history of overshooting. Unfortunately this is what is happening not only in relation to the Rupee but also other currencies.
The RBI and Government have taken a number of steps to stabilize the rupee. Some measures have given rise to doubts in some quarters that capital controls are on the horizon. I would like to assure the House and the world at large, that the Government is not contemplating any such measures. The last two decades have seen India grow as an open economy and we have benefitted from it. There is no question of reversing these policies just because there is some turbulence in capital and currency markets. The sudden decline in the exchange rate is certainly a shock, but we will address this through other measures, not through capital controls or by reversing the process of reforms. The Finance Minister has clarified this matter at length, and I take this opportunity to reaffirm our position.
Ultimately, the value of the rupee is determined by the fundamentals of our economy. While we have taken a number of actions to strengthen those fundamentals, we intend to do more.
Growth has slowed down in recent quarters. I expect growth in the first quarter of 2013-14 to be relatively flat, but as the effects of the good monsoon kick in, I expect it to pick up. There are many reasons for this optimism. The decisions of the Cabinet Committee on Investment in reviving stalled projects will start bearing fruit in the second half of the year. The full effects of the growth friendly measures that have been taken over the last six months, such as liberalizing norms for Foreign Direct Investment, resolution of some tax issues of concern to industry and fuel subsidy reform will come into play over the year resulting in higher growth particularly in manufacturing. Exports are also starting to look up as the growth performance of the rest of the world is showing signs of improvement. So I believe growth will pick up in the second half of the fiscal year barring extreme unforeseen eventualities.
There are questions about the size of the fiscal deficit. The government will do whatever is necessary to contain the fiscal deficit to 4.8% of GDP this year. The most growth-friendly way to contain the deficit is to spend carefully, especially on subsidies that do not reach the poor, and we will take effective steps to that end.
Inflation measured by the Wholesale Price Index has been coming down, even though inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index is still too high. The depreciation of the rupee and rise in dollar prices of petroleum products will no doubt lead to some further upward pressure on prices. The Reserve Bank will therefore continue to focus on bringing down inflation. The favourable monsoon and the anticipated good harvest will help bring down food prices and ease the task of controlling inflation.
All in all, the macro-stabilization process which should support the value of the rupee is under way. I expect that as the fruits of our efforts materialize, currency markets will recover.
Even while we go about doing what is necessary, it is important to recognize that the fundamentals of the Indian economy continue to be strong. India’s overall public-debt to GDP ratio has been on a declining trend from 73.2% of GDP in 2006-07 to 66% in 2012-13. Similarly, India’s external debt is only 21.2% of our GDP and while short-term debt has risen, it stands at no more than 5.2% of our GDP. Our foreign exchange reserves stand at US$278bn, and are more than sufficient to meet India’s external financing requirements.
Many foreign analysts worry about banking problems that may arise in the wake of the currency crisis. The Indian banking sector has seen some rise in bad loans. The question that needs to be asked is whether there is a liquidity problem or a solvency problem for the borrowers. My belief is that there is a liquidity problem. Many of the projects are not unviable but only delayed, in contrast to the overbuilding that has characterized the banking sector problems in many other countries. As these projects come on stream, they will generate revenue and repay loans. Our banks are fortunately well capitalized much above the Basel norms and they have the capacity to provide for any non-performing assets until those assets are turned around.
The easy reforms of the past have been done. We have the more difficult reforms to do such as reduction of subsidies, insurance and pension sector reforms, eliminating bureaucratic red tape and implementing Goods and Services Tax. These are not low hanging fruit and they need active political consensus.
It is here that I urge Honourable Members across the political spectrum to reflect on the need of the hour. Many laws that are necessary are held up for lack of political consensus. Reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax, which everyone agrees is essential to restore growth and boost revenues, require States to come to an agreement. We need to forge consensus on such vital issues. I urge political parties to work towards this end and to join in the government’s efforts to put the economy back on the path of stable, sustainable growth.
There may be short term shocks to our economy and we need to face them. That is the reality of operating in a globalised economy, whose benefits we have reaped over the last 15 to 20 years. We will need to ensure that the fundamentals of the economy remain strong so that India continues to grow at a healthy rate for many years to come. That we will ensure. We are no doubt faced with important challenges, but we have the capacity to address them. It is at times like these that the nation shows what it is truly capable of.”
******
SC/NK
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Adulteration of Milk
28-August-2013 15:42 IST
68.4% samples were found to be non-conforming
New Delhi: 28 agst 2013: (PIB//Punjab Screen)In the National Survey conducted by the Food Safety and Standards of Authority of India (FSSAI) to ascertain the quality of milk throughout the country, 68.4% samples were found to be non-conforming to Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. State-wise details of non-conforming samples in the descending order of percentage with respect to the total samples collected in different States / UTs are annexed.
No such data is maintained centrally by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, the nodal agency for the purpose to regulate manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import of articles of food, and to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
The implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 rests with State/UT Governments. Random samples of food items including milk are drawn by the State Food Safety Officers and sent to the designated food testing laboratories for analysis. Penal action is taken against the offenders, in case samples are found to be not conforming to the provisions of the FSS Act and Regulations made thereunder. There is an outlay of Rs. 1500 crore in the 12th Five Year Plan to strengthen the food regulatory system at the State level.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad in written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha yesterday. (PIB) BN/BK/HB
68.4% samples were found to be non-conforming
 |
| Courtesy Photo |
No such data is maintained centrally by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, the nodal agency for the purpose to regulate manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import of articles of food, and to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
The implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 rests with State/UT Governments. Random samples of food items including milk are drawn by the State Food Safety Officers and sent to the designated food testing laboratories for analysis. Penal action is taken against the offenders, in case samples are found to be not conforming to the provisions of the FSS Act and Regulations made thereunder. There is an outlay of Rs. 1500 crore in the 12th Five Year Plan to strengthen the food regulatory system at the State level.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad in written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha yesterday. (PIB) BN/BK/HB
Annexure
State-wise details of non-conforming samples in the descending order of percentage with respect to the total samples collected in different States / UTs
State(s)
|
% of non-conforming samples
|
Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Daman and Diu, Jharkhand, Orissa, West Bengal and Mizoram
|
100%
|
Manipur and Meghalaya
|
96%
|
Tripura
|
92%
|
Gujarat and Sikkim
|
89%
|
Uttrakhand and Uttar Pradesh
|
88%
|
Nagaland
|
86%
|
Jammu & Kashmir
|
83%
|
Punjab
|
81%
|
Rajasthan
|
76%
|
Delhi Haryana
|
70%
|
Arunachal Pradesh
|
68%
|
Maharashtra
|
65%
|
Himachal Pradesh
|
59%
|
Dadra and Nagar Haveli
|
58%
|
Assam
|
55%
|
Chandigarh and Madhya Pradesh
|
48%
|
Kerala
|
28%
|
Karnataka
|
22%
|
Tamil Nadu
|
12%
|
Andhra Pradesh
|
6.7%
|
Goa and Puducherry
|
Nil
|
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