30 September 2011

India Tops Weapons Purchase Table, Outspends China

By Uttara Choudhury

Boeing-C17-Globemaster. Image courtesy Boeing

New York, Sep 30 : India was the biggest buyer of conventional arms among developing nations in 2010 and had global defence giants lining up to capture $5.8 billion in new deals, said a report for the US Congress.

Worldwide arms sales in 2010 totalled $40.4 billion, a drop of 38 percent from the $65.2 billion in arms deals signed in 2009 and the lowest total since 2003, the Congressional study found.

India, which is growing its military muscle, was followed on a shopping spree last year by Taiwan, which sealed $2.7 billion in deals and Saudi Arabia which negotiated $2.2 billion in sales. Pakistan also received $2.2 billion worth of arms shipments, according to the report.

The 75-page report found that developing countries were the heaviest buyers in 2010 and the total value of arms transfer deals with developing nations last year was $30.7 billion, or 76.2 percent of worldwide deals.

The report said defence budgets in most developed countries, especially in Europe are undergoing massive cuts. In the early going of the financial crisis, defence budgets were under little pressure and indeed were often seen as part of a wider economic stimulus effort. But with the focus shifting to austerity and rebalancing books, that dynamic has changed.

As a result, developing nations continued to be the primary focus of foreign arms sales. US, Russian and European suppliers made a beeline for wealthy oil producing countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and high-octane economies like India, China, and South Korea.

“Worldwide weapons sales declined generally in 2010 in response to the constraints created by the tenuous state of the global economy,” wrote Richard F. Grimmett, a specialist in international security at the Congressional Research Service and author of the study.

“As new arms sales have become more difficult to conclude since the global recession began, competition among sellers has become increasingly intense,” said Grimmett, noting that suppliers were sweetening deals with flashy incentives, flexible financing and co-production agreements.

The report also listed Saudi Arabia, India and China as by far the heaviest buyers over the 2003-2010 period covered in the report. Over this eight-year period, Saudi Arabia was the developing world’s top recipient of arms shipments having received some $29 billion worth of weapons, followed by India at nearly $17 billion; China at $13.2 billion; Egypt at $12.1 billion and Israel at $10.3 billion.

America and Russia have been the dominant arms sellers to developing countries over the past eight years, according to the report. Moscow actually beat out Washington in the value of arms deals it inked between 2003 and 2006, only to be overtaken by Washington over the next four years.

In actual arms deliveries to developing countries, however, Washington has dominated its competitors over the past eight years, with about $60 billion worth of transfers, compared to Russia’s $38 billion. Britain delivered $19 billion, France $12.3 billion, China $11.6 billion, Germany $6.2 billion and Israel $3.5 billion.

The report noted that India has begun to modernise its old, Soviet-era military equipment and technology and diversify its weapons supply base. “In 2008, India purchased six C130J cargo aircraft from the United States. In 2010, the United Kingdom sold India 57 Hawk jet trainers for $1 billion. In 2010, Italy also sold India 12 AW101 helicopters,” it said.

“This pattern of Indian arms purchases indicates that it is likely that Russia will face strong new competition from other major weapons suppliers for the India arms market, and it can no longer be assured that India will consistently purchase its major combat systems.”

New Delhi is aware that many of its purchases are big-ticket items so under current Indian rules, foreign companies that win orders in excess of about $62 million, must draw at least 30 percent of that order from domestic suppliers or make a similarly sized investment within India, in what is known as an offset.

Salgaocar Lift Federation Cup

Salgaocar broke a 14-year jinx with 3-1 win over Bengal - PTI

Salgaocar broke a 14-year jinx with 3-1 win over Bengal - PTI

 

Kolkata, Sep 30  : Goa's Salgaocar Sports Club broke a 14-year jinx to lift the Federation Cup with a 3-1 victory over city soccer giants East Bengal in the final at the Salt Lake Stadium here Thursday.

The in-form visitors, who conceded their first goal of the tournament Thursday, put the locals on the mat by establishing a quick 2-0 lead through Edeh Chidi and Francis Fernandes, even though East Bengal managed to reduce the margin when Allan Gow converted what seemed a controversial penalty decision.

However, the I-League champions put the issue beyond East Bengal with Ryuji Sueoka pushing home after a horrible goalkeeping blunder from Sandip Nandy.

Salgaocar, who won their fourth Fed Cup title - and the first since 1997 - looked the better team on view, displaying good cohesion, as East Bengal paid the price for missed chances, and some strategic faux pas of their coach Trevor James Morgan.

The Englishman fielded a visibly unfit Mehtab Hossain who had to be replaced within four minutes and then inexplicably substituted the bright Penn Orji in the second session. Besides, the defence faltered in challenging situations and forward Robin Singh missed a couple of rosy chances. And in the end, the red and gold brigade's hopes of making a hat-trick of Fed Cup titles went up in smoke, disappointing the massive crowd.

On the other hand, Salgaocar coach Karim Bencharifa, being tipped for the national coach's slot, tasted his second success in the tournament, having earlier guided Mohun Bagan to the summit.

Salgaocar drew first blood - a soft goal - as early as the fifth minute.

Junior Elija's centre from the right, saw Edeh Chidi getting away almost unchallenged as he unleashed a low header, with Harmanjot Khabra making only a feeble attempt to dissuade him. The ball went in to the right of Nandi.

The lead was doubled 15 minutes later when Nandi managed to block Fernandes' attempt, but the winger finished off the rebound.

East Bengal managed to narrow the margin in the 25th minute. Salagaocar's Biswajit Saha tried to dispossess Orji inside the Goan team's penalty box, and as the Nigerian fell, referee Santosh Singh pointed to the dreaded spot. Television action replays revealed the punishment was too harsh as there was little body contact between the two players.

Gow, however, made no mistake in scoring from the spot kick with a left foot grounder.

The goal enthused East Bengal as they attacked with more purpose earning a series of flag kicks.

At the other end, Nandi denied Fernandes while Chidi wasted a chance after good footwork.

Robin Singh missed a golden opportunity in the dying minutes of the opening session as he failed to reach a Naoba Singh cross.

Crossing over, Robin was once again guilty of muffing up a sitter. Sanju Pradhan set up the unmarked youngster, but he missed the easiest of headers from close.

The Japanese Sueoka finally made the scoreline 3-1 by tapping the ball in after Nandi failed to grip a Chidi cross.

Realising the ground slipping under their feet, the East Bengal forwards looked desperate, but the Salgaocar defence held firm, and as the final whistle was blown, the Goans became only the second team after Mohun Bagan to win the I-League and the Fed Cup in the same year.

Meet The Huawei-Discovery Expedition

discovery-expedition-phone
Discovery Communications has partnered with Huawei Technologies to come up with the ‘Huawei-Discovery Expedition’ phone. The partnership and the launch of the handset is a part of the expanding Discovery Expedition line, the official lifestyle brand of Discovery Channel.

The Discovery Expedition handset is quite a rugged phone (water-resistant, dustproof and anti-shock, includes a GPS, torch, compass, G-sensor) suitable for the outdoorsy kinds. Yes, it will come with native SNS apps like Facebook and Twitter to allow you to share your adventures online with your buddies.

We do wish that we had some more specifications to talk about but judging just by the looks of it, we can say its a fairly sturdy and strong. No don’t expect any ridiculously frail touchscreen display as this one is meant for the adventurous kind.

The handset is expected to hit various markets anytime in the next three months.

Sara Underwood Modeling the Playboy Store's Lingerie and Bikini (NSFW)

Sara Underwood has never been shy of her amazing figure, and considering that she has already done a spread for Playboy proper, a substantially less risque photoshoot of herself in Lingerie and various Bikinis is nothing shocking.

Sara Underwood's photoshoot for Playboy's Lingerie line and Bikini line are nothing short of mouth watering. I have always been a huge fan of Sarah's, so seeing this just brings that extra bit of joy to my life. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do ...

29 September 2011

Disasters Claim 71 Lives in Mizoram in 8 Years

VDMT at Mock Drill Aizawl, MizoramAizawl, Sep 29 : Natural disasters have claimed the lives of altogether 71 persons and injured 82 others during the last eight years, Disaster Management and Rehabilitation officials said here today.

Landslides and land sinking claimed the highest number of lives, killing 31 persons, followed by house fire (15 persons), forest fire (11 lives), flash flood/flood (10 lives) and cyclone (4 lives).

Altogether 82 persons were injured by disasters during this period.

As many as 42,523 houses were damaged by disasters, with cyclone, which damaged 20279 houses, topping the list.

It was followed by landslides which damaged 6621 houses. Hailstorm damaged 10895 houses, household fire and forest fire gutted 1498 houses and 749 houses respectively while floods destroyed 2481 houses.

Disasters, mainly forest fire, destroyed 249947 bighas of land.

Landslides caused damage to 82187 bighas of land, cyclone 10826 bighas, flood 48856 bighas and hailstorm 6746 bighas of land.

The most disastrous incident was recorded in 1992 when a rock slide at South Hlimen near Aizawl killed 67 people and destroyed 16 houses.

Fortunately, no major earthquake has occurred in Mizoram despite the fact that the state, with the rest of the northeastern India, falls within seismic zone five, which seismologists said is the highest vulnerable zone.

In 2006, Mizoram adopted the Disaster Management Act, 2005, passed by the Parliament and set up state disaster management authority under the chairmanship of the chief minister. Under this, there is district disaster management authority in each district, chaired by the deputy commissioner concerned.

''As Mizoram lies within the seismic zone V, the Central government has taken initiatives under UNDP-DRM programme with the state government to aware the public for prevention/mitigation of earthquake disaster in a form of training and preparedness to face possible earthquake disaster,'' said head faculty, ATI (DMC) Dr Lalrokima Chenkual.

Hazard safety cell has been set up under the state PWD. The cell has chalked out programmes on assessment of buildings and other structures on their vulnerability to strong earthquake and has started operations with life-line buildings.

School teachers are taught formulation of school safety plan and safety tips while disaster management is being introduced in the school syllabus for Class V, VIII, IX and X in the state.

Extensive awareness campaign was being conducted at all levels, the officials said.

Football Fans in India Deprived Of Watching The Game by ESPN

By Ashim Sunam

Football fans across the nation were very disappointed as they were not able to watch some important EPL clashes, as ESPN had decided to broadcast the cash rich Champions League. At the end, it was the football fans, who lost out on the EPL action.

DAVID HAOKIP, a Liverpool fan never misses out watching his favourite team, Liverpool, play during the English Premier league. He makes sure that there is no disturbance during the game. But it was a frustrating and gloomy day for Haokip last Saturday, as he could not watch Liverpool play against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Feeling helpless, Haokip thought he was one of those few thousands of football fans who grew in the wrong part of the world, where every second person is an ardent cricket fan, in the cricket-obssessed nation of India.

The official broadcasters, ESPN and Star, were busy covering the cash rich Champions League T20, 2011. As a result, Star Sports showed only Manchester City’s game Vs Everton, and United’s game later on - and due to some reason missed showing the Liverpool vs Wolverhampton Wanderers game - leading to Haokip losing his cool. Football fans across the country were not able to see what they love - a solid game of fast-paced European league precission football. Considering that during the weekend, EPL witnesses around 10 matches - it was a huge let down for football lovers.

For football fans across the country, it is on Saturdays and Sundays that they get together and enjoy watching the beautiful game on their plasma screens. But, last week was different for these groups of football fans, as they could not watch the beautiful game. They will have to cope with absence of live football footage for the coming two weeks or so as the Champions League 2011 is scheduled to conclude only on October 9, 2011. So football fans across the country must have some arrangements ready for the future matches. The best bet would be watching it online, provided the internet speed is good.

Kipgen Mangboi from Manipur, who has been following football from a very small age, was angry when he switched on to ESPN to watch football, only to realize that the channel was broadcasting cricket. In an angry voice, Kipgen says, “why are two channels showing the same T20 game?” The T20 game was shown in both ESPN and Star cricket. He was so frustrated, as he could not watch EPL, so he even thought of writing to ESPN, but he gave up the idea. He added, “For a cricket match score, you can go and ask any paan wala, but what about the football score, it is not so easy”. The only option that is left for the football fans of the country is to log on to the internet and Google for live scores. It has to be remembered that not everyone has internet service at their disposal.

As a result of a "semi-football blackout', football fans posted numerous comments on social networking sites asking questions such as, ‘why is ESPN showing cricket, when they are the official broadcasters of the EPL?’ Another football fan Philip, who has been born and brought up in Delhi went to the extent of commenting on the Facebook page of espnstar.com, “In India why did you guys not show the live telecast of the other matches except for Stoke Vs Manchester United and Man City vs Everton? Is the copycat cricket glitter more important for you, who can’t you even come up with a name for their own tournament and copy it from the prestigious UEFA Champions league”. Fans like Philip always make sure that their voices are heard far and wide. He openly states that he hates cricket. No wonder, with unwarranted situation like these, football fans will always look down upon cricket. But, how much will this turn of events matter to cricket fans, which outnumber football fans in India?

Almost 90-95 per cent of the Indian population are cricket fans and the rest of the country may follow other sports such as Football, Hockey, and Lawn tennis. But, Football is said to be growing in many parts of the country, which is sure to increase the number of fans present in India. North eastern states of India, along with Kolkata, and Kerala have a large number of football fans. The numbers are increasing gradually. But, it would never be able to surpass the number of cricket fans - that's for sure - at least, not in the near future.

Cricket brings in so much of revenue to broadcasters, so it is understandable that ESPN shows cricket, and not football, which in India, can't generate the kind of revenue that cricket does. Parag Ekka, who is both an ardent cricket and a football fan, comes up with a balanced view and says, “It is no surprise, that cricket is being aired in ESPN. After all it is India, where cricket is religion. We are not in Brazil.” If we bring into the TRP factor here, cricket would win all hands down, as there is a very small section of Indian populace who follow football regularly.

Some football fans across the nation cannot even think of going a weekend going by without watching EPL matches. One such fan from Darjeeling, Nalanda Moktan, realizing he did not have any alternative, decided to log on to the internet and read the text commentary on various websites. The feeling of watching the game live is always better than scrolling over the internet for text commentary or watching it online, which is very irritating as it buffers, and following live-action depends on the speed of the internet. “In spite of reading live text commentary, I will make sure that I watch the highlights of the game, which is a visual treat.”

One hopes that sports channels in India realize that football fans of India have to feel satisfied with whatever little air time that is given to football, which is not exactly the most smartest situation if sponsors and broadcasters are trying to build momentum for the growth of football in a country that has lakhs of people who want to kick a footbal than hit a cricket ball given half a chance.

About The Author

Ashim is a citizen journalist and a sports enthusiast. He loves to delve deep inside the background of every sporting event and analyse the happenings around the arena

Bnei Menashe of Northeast India Celebrate Rosh Hashana


Children from the Bnei Menashe community prepare to celebrate Rosh Hashana in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur.

The Bnei Menashe are descendants of one of the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel who were exiled by the Assyrian empire more than 27 centuries ago.

Several months ago, an Israeli government committee approved in principle a request made by the
Shavei Israel organization to bring on aliyah the 7,200 Bnei Menashe still in India.

photo courtesy Yochanan Phaltual

2 Months of Manipur Blockade: An LPG Cylinder for Rs 2,000, Rice at Rs70 a kg!

By Prasanta Mazumdar

residents in Imphal stand in queue for PetrolGuwahati, Sep 29 : Manipur has been literally held to ransom by two tribal organisations who have enforced ‘economic blockades’ on the two national highways in the state on the issue of the demand for the creation of a new district.

Fifty-eight days into the blockades, the prices of essential commodities have spiraled like never before. According to locals, petrol is being sold at Rs120 to Rs140 and diesel Rs70 a litre in the black market in Manipur capital Imphal.

“An LPG cylinder is being sold at Rs1,600 to Rs2,000 in the black market. We are buying mustard oil at Rs 120 a litre and we presume the one we are buying is also not pure,” said Abdul Haque, leader of All Manipur Students’ Union.
He said the situation wouldn’t have come to such a pass had the government allegedly not connived with the traders. Haque alleged the government remained silent as it was getting its share from the traders.

The situation is said to be worse in the four hill districts where the Nagas are in majority. “Can one imagine how difficult living could be when rice is sold at Rs70 a kg?” asked Julie Singlai, leader of an Ukhrul-based students’ organisation. Ukhrul is one of the four hill districts in Manipur.

Julie said potatoes and onions were being sold at Rs50 to Rs60 per kg. LPG is out of market at many places in the hill districts. “We get everything from Imphal. However, in the wake of the blockades, there is an acute shortage of the essential items now,” she added.

The government denied there had been any shortage of the essential items. “The situation has improved in the last few days though the prices have gone up to some extent,” minister and government spokesman N Biren told DNA. He said vehicles carrying essential commodities were being escorted into the state through national highway 53.

“We’re doing everything possible to check the prices,” he added. Around a dozen vehicles have been torched by the protestors on national highway 39 ever since the blockades.

It all began on August 1 when the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee imposed economic blockades on NH 39 and 53 demanding the creation of Sadar Hills district. Soon after, the United Naga Council, the apex Naga organisation of Manipur, enforced similar blockades on the same routes in protest against the government’s alleged attempts to bifurcate Naga-dominated areas to create the new district. The tribal Kukis are in majority in Sadar Hills and their demand for the creation of the new district exists since the 70s.

“We’re closely monitoring the situation,” the Manipur government spokesman said. Scores of people had died in ethnic clashes between the Kukis and the Nagas in 1992.

Anna Hazare To Travel To Manipur, Wants Sharmila To End her 10-Year-Old Fast

By Partha Sarathi Biswas

Pune, Sep 29 : Veteran Gandhian Anna Hazare is likely to travel to Manipur to personally urge human rights activist Irom Sharmila to end her 10-year-old hunger strike.

Sharmila has been fasting since November 2000, demanding the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958, (AFSPA) in Northeast India.

After the success of the Jan Lokpal movement, Team Anna was flooded with requests from activists from different parts of the country to lend support to their causes. The team had promised to give their decision after consideration.

Sources close to the anti-graft activist told DNA that Hazare had expressed concern about the condition of Sharmila and wants an early end to her marathon fast. The Manipuri activist is being force-fed at the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital close to her home in Imphal.

During the Jan Lokpal movement, Sharmila had expressed her support for the cause through a letter.

In continuation of Team Anna's decision, two members of the team will be leaving for Imphal soon, possibly Manish Sissodiya and Supreme Court advocate Prashant Bhushan.

Sharmila's demand for repealing the AFSPA will also be studied in detail as Team Anna has expressed concern about the possible implications in other sensitive parts of the country.

Sources close to Hazare told DNA that other than urging Sharmila to end her hunger strike, the Gandhian is keen to visit the North-East for other reasons.

"There exists a mental block in various parts of the country, which has caused a divide between the North-East and the rest of the country. Given the iconic stature of Anna, his visit would go a long way in bridging the divide and to integrate those parts into the greater psyche of the nation," the source said.

Source: DNA

15 Fuel Tankers On Fire

1 person scorched to death in field

MEHEDI HEDAYTULLAH

Chanabana (Bihar), Sep 29 : Fifteen tankers loaded with fuel were gutted and more than 10 lakh litres of diesel burnt when a goods train carrying them jumped tracks in Chanabana on the Bihar-Bengal border this morning.

Chanabana is 5km from North Dinajpur’s Islampur or Aluabari Road station and 65km from New Jalpaiguri, the railway’s gateway to the Northeast.

The inferno caused the tracks to melt, leading to disruption in train services on the Aluabari-NJP route. At least three Up trains from Calcutta — the Darjeeling Mail, Padatik and Kanchankanya — were held up for more than four to five hours along the route.

The heat from the burning fuel also scorched to death a villager, whose body was found after the flames were doused. Paddy on 500 acres along the tracks have been burnt.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) said the goods train, with 51 tankers and each of them filled with 70,000 litres of diesel from the Numaligarh Refineries Limited, was on its way to Jamshedpur from Maligaon in Assam.

Around 7am, when the train was crossing Chanabana village, two tankers jumped tracks, sparking a fire that almost enveloped the train. The NFR suspects that friction between the tankers that jumped tracks might have led to the fire.

When the driver realised that two wagons had derailed and were on fire, he and the on-duty guard immediately severed most of the tankers from the front and rear of the train, thus saving 36 containers.

Soon, three tankers, which were on flames, jumped fell into a stream. The train had stopped on a culvert over a stream.

Twelve fire engines from Islampur, Matigara, Siliguri, NJP and Bihar’s Kishanganj were pressed into service within half an hour. But the flames seemed to rise up high with the spraying of water. At the same time, water acted as a coolant for the soil near the tankers, preventing the spreading of the flames. Finally, foam brought from NJP helped douse the blaze around 3.30pm. Udaynarayan Adhikari, the deputy director of the state fire services of north Bengal, said: “Foam helps largely in cutting off oxygen. If water is used, it only acts as a coolant but does not douse the flames as it floats over oil.”

Rafiq Alam, whose house is near the tracks, said when the tankers blew up, he thought there was a train accident.

“There was a deafening sound and we thought there was a train accident. But soon, there was a huge ball of fire, which turned out to be a devastating one,” said Rafiq. “We ran out of our huts. We have never seen this sort of fire before and didn’t know what to do. The paddy fields along the tracks have been damaged.”

Senior railway officials from Katihar and NJP visited the spot. “Based on preliminary investigation, we can say that the fire occurred because of friction after the derailment. The incident led to disruption in rail movement across parts of north Bengal and the entire Northeast,” said B.L. Patil, the divisional railway manager of Katihar. The Chanabana area comes under the Katihar division of the NFR. “A good number of tankers could be saved because of the promptness of the driver and guard.”

The engine of the goods train took away some of the tankers to Aluabari Road. Tankers severed from the rear were taken to NJP by another engine that had arrived.

S. Pahan, the superintendent of railway police of Katihar, however, said sabotage was not being ruled out. “We will initiate investigation and cannot comment on the cause of the incident now. Whether it is an incident of sabotage or an accident because of technical faults, is subject to investigation,” he said.

The NFR authorities said though there are two tracks at Chanabana, both have bent and melted because of the heat over a 500-metre stretch and needed to be replaced. “It would take at least a day to repair the tracks and make the service normal,” an official said.

The villagers had been worried about Motiur Rehman, whose body was found later in the day, since the fire started. They said the 44-year-old, who was working in his field along the tracks, was missing since the tankers caught fire. After the flames were doused, Motiur’s charred body was found in the paddy field. The body was sent for post-mortem.

28 September 2011

Free Apps To Beat TRAI’s 100-SMS Per Day Rule

For those addicted to instant messaging, fret not over the telecom regulator’s  100 sms per day cap. A host of apps like WhatsApp and Nimbuzz can help you get around the problem.

1. Nimbuzz: If you don’t have a smartphone, there’s no need to feel left out.

Nimbuzz, A free software  links you to friends through the internet and even works on a cheap phone. The free app works on every phone and is not restricted to only smartphones. It allows you to send messages  to other instant messenger applications like Windows Live, Google Talk or Facebook. The app also allows free voice calls to other Nimbuzz users over WiFi or 3G without using any voice minutes. For a symbian phone which does not have push mail service Nimbuzz helps you stay connected. Just log in and Nimbuzz gives you multiple options— Chat, text messages, phone calls,  sharing of  pictures or multimedia files— all for free.  The only thing you have to pay for is your internet!.

You can download the app here.

Cnectd : For a different flavour, try  Cnectd— a mobile messaging and social networking free application for smart phones.  The best thing about it is that it uses very little of your phone battery but works just like the BlackBerry Messenger. It  does everything Nimbuzz can, but only on smartphones. You can download the app from http://getjar.com/Cnectd.

 WhatsApp: WhatsApp Messenger  is another free  cross-platform mobile messaging app which allows you to exchange messages without having to pay for SMS. Messaging is clean and simple and you can share unlimited video and audio files. WhatsApp is available for iPhone, BlackBerry, Android and Nokia and yes, those phones can all message each other! Moreover, it prompts everyone on your contact list to download the application on their phones.

Download the app here.

GroupMe: A free app that lets you create groups and start conversations with multiple people. Once you add the people you want to create a conversation with, just start typing. Each group receives its own phone number that everyone in the group is assigned to.  It offers the ability to include pictures in messages, make conference calls and send questions to Facebook and Twitter. The app works on Android, BlackBerry and Iphone devices.

You can download the app here.

But if you are willing to spend a little, start saving up now and buy youself a BlackBerry that enables unlimited instant messaging among BlackBerry users.

The World's First Flexible Cell Phone...

Samsung Galaxy Skin: So tough it can be hit with a hammer

Your flexible friend? Samsung to release bendy-screened phones 'in Spring 2012' - so tough they can be hit with a hammer

By Rob Waugh

The Galaxy Skin phone will be so flexible you can roll it up - and may be in shops early next year

The Galaxy Skin phone will be so flexible you can roll it up - and may be in shops early next year

Demonstrations of 'bendable' screens have been a staple of technology shows ever since there were screens small enough for us to carry.

This week, Samsung has given the strongest sign yet that the hi-tech devices might become reality.

The company demonstrated 'bendable' AMOLED screens 4.5 inches across and just 0.3mm thick in January this year.

Reports this week hint that phones using the technology - which can be 'rolled up' and survive hammer blows - will appear in the second quarter of next year.

The technology relies on atom-thick layers of 'graphene' - sheets of carbon atoms - sandwiched together, protecting a layer of liquid crystal 'screen'.

Earlier this year, reports leaked that Samsung had the capacity to manufacture large amounts of the screen by 'early 2012' - but no one knew what they might be for.

Samsung later released pictures of a concept phone using the technology - the Galaxy Skin.

The phone would be no mere novelty.

Phones using Graphene screens would be practically unbreakable, and offer an instant advantage over every other smartphone on the market.

Now, according to reports in the International Business Times, the handsets could be on sale early next year.

The report was remarkably specific, stating that the handset would offer specifications including a high-resolution 800×480 flexible AMOLED screen, eight megapixel camera and 1Gb of RAM as well as a 1.2GHz processor.

Those specifications sound suspiciously similar to the spec of Samsung's current flagship, the Galaxy S II, however.

Will Findlater, editor of Stuff magazine told Mail Online today, 'AMOLED is already the mobile screen technology to beat, so if it’s as good as promised, flexible AMOLED could put an end to smashed smartphone displays - and tablets, which are even more fragile.'

Samsung's Galaxy Skin - unveiled as a concept earlier this year - could be on sale as early as Spring 2012, according to recent reports

Samsung's Galaxy Skin - unveiled as a concept earlier this year - could be on sale as early as Spring 2012, according to recent reports

Layers of 'Graphene' - atom-thick layers of carbon - will be used to create paper-thin 'foldable' screens in the Samsung Galaxy Skin

Layers of 'Graphene' - atom-thick layers of carbon - will be used to create paper-thin 'foldable' screens in the Samsung Galaxy Skin

'The potential for tablets that can fold to the size of a smartphone is especially exciting – you could have two gadgets for the price of one,' says Findlater.

It's perhaps wise to be a little sceptical however.

Samsung has made no official announcement regarding the product, and while they definitely can manufacture the technology - it was freely on show earlier this year - the 'gulf' between that and a working phone ready to go into mass production is huge.

'Flexible' screens have been demonstrated in various forms since as early as 2004 - with tech insiders suggesting that laptops or e-Book readers might one day take the form of a 'pen' housing a processor with a 'sheet' of paper-like screen wrapped around them.

Other ideas have included using tiny, flexible screens like electronic Post-it notes.

Mizoram Gets Another World-Class Turf

artificial turf grass mizoramAizawl, Sep 28 : Close on the heels of Aizawl, Lunglei is all set to become the second town in Mizoram to have its public ground covered with artificial turf.

The Hyderabad-based Great Sports Infra, which had successfully laid world-class artificial grass at the Assam Rifles Ground in Aizawl, began the task of greening Thuamluai Mual, the largest public ground in Lunglei in southern Mizoram Parliamentary Secretary to sports minister, S Laldingliana, who dig-started the ground works this morning, said this was a major achievement not only for Lunglei district, but for the entire state of Mizoram.

He urged the youths to make the best use of world-class ground to sharpen their sports talents for Mizoram and for India.

High power committee-Lunglei (HPC-L) vice-chairman Joseph Lalhimpuia, who was also present on the occasion, praised the Congress government for its remarkable works for the welfare of the youth. He said lighting system would be fitted at the ground to make usable at night, thanks to the efforts of Chief Minister and HPC-L chairman Lal Thanhawla.

The Great Sports Infra, which represents FieldTurf Tarkett in India, the country s leader in next-generation artificial grass and sports surfaces, had successfully executed the state government’s ambitious project of laying international standard artificial grass on the 80,000 square feet ground in Aizawl.

The sub-level works will take at least 75 days, provided no rains disturbance. We hope to complete the entire project within four months, Abhijit S Dessai, consulting engineer for FieldTurf Tarkett, said in Lunglei today.

Once completed, Thuamluai Mual will become the fourth football ground in India to have FIFA standards artificial grass, after Aizawl s AR Ground, Chowgule College football ground in Goa and the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

SSA Mizoram Lose Match And Temper

SSA football Mizoram teamChandigarh, Sep 28 : Strong contenders Chandigarh Football Academy, a venture of the Chandigarh Administration, expectedly qualified for the semi-finals from Group A by logging nine full points from their three matches in the 9th Administrator’s Challenge Cup All India Football Tournament (Under-17) here today.

In their last league fixture CF Academy routed Indian Tigers by 9-0 at the Sector 42 Football Ground.

The highlight of the one-sided match was fine three goals by Aotan Mawia (11th, 64th, 79th minutes). Their other scorers were Jatinder (5th), Samuel (41st, 46th), Inder (64th, 76th) and Harsharan (82nd). In another match at the same venue, Mahilpur Football Academy got the better of Dalbir Football Academy by 1-0 in a group C fixture. Both Punjab teams play same brand of football. Long passes and body play were the main features of the match. The all-important goal came in the 30th minute.

Medio Kulwant Singh sent a defence-splitting pass to Behan Singh whose powerful shot was partially saved by Dalbir Academy goalkeeper Simranjeet Singh and on the rebound a defender tried to clear it but the ball took spin and crossed the goalline. The second half remained goalless despite both teams initiating good moves.

All five teams in Group C are heavy weights. Putting them in one pool is beyond any justification. In another tough Group C encounter, Mohun Bagan humbled Sarv Sikshaya Abhuiyan of Mizoram by 4-1.

The match was marred by rough and violent play by both teams, resulting. With a view to controlling the temper of the players, referee Arun Kumar had to show red and yellow cards. CL Alhlimpuia was sent off the field for indulging in violent conduct. Mizoram’s Zia and David Lal Hruaia were shown yellow card for kicking their opponents from behind. Devajeet Bose, Tanwar Laskar, Mod Tarique and Suman Hazara of Mohun Bagan were cautioned and shown yellow card for indulging in cautionable offences during the match.

Mohun Bagan took the lead through Mrinal Adhikari in the 16th minute while Joseph made it 2-0.

Mizoram were able to reduce the margin in the 51st minute through Lalvensanga. Sumanta increased the margin in the 71st minute while Sonu Kumar rounded of the winners tally in the 89th minute.

Economic Blockade: Manipur To Airlift Condoms

When the people of Manipur are worried about high prices of commodities, MACS has ordered to airlift condoms...

By Pankaj Sharma

durex condoms for manipurGuwahati, Sep 28 : A blockade-choked Manipur could be facing an HIV epidemic because of condom shortage, forcing the AIDS Control Society to consider airlifting rubber to the state.

The Sadar Hills District Demand Committee imposed an economic blockade along Imphal-Jiribam and Imphal-Dimapur highways on July 31 in support of the creation of Sadar Hills district.

The United Naga Council imposed another blockade on August 21, to oppose inclusion of Naga villages when the Sadar Hills district is created.

The government has been trying to maintain minimal supplies through an alternative route, but condoms are certainly not part of the consignment.

Jittery over the shortage, the Manipur State AIDS Control Society has decided to take probably the last way out — airlift condoms.

Official sources told The Telegraph that that not a single condom was left with the AIDS control society for distribution and the road blockade is preventing fresh stocks from reaching Manipur — counted as a high HIV/AIDS prevalence state in the country.

According to the latest study of the Manipur State AIDS Control Society, the number of HIV-positive people has gone up to 38,016. Of these 10,109 are women and 2,578 children.

“The AIDS control society society ran out of condom stock almost a couple of months ago. Distribution of condoms among high-risk groups for sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS has been seriously affected in the state,” the source said.

“The society has written to the National AIDS Control Organisation asking for the estimated cost of airlifting condoms. We hope to make necessary arrangements to bring in condoms by air within the next two to three days,” he said.

According to the source, manufacturers can send the condoms by air but the Manipur State AIDS Control Society will have to the bear additional costs since the Union ministry of health and family welfare has contracts with condom manufacturers for surface transport only.

He said the society was ready “in principle” to bear the additional cost and a final decision would be taken when they get the exact estimate of additional cost from the National AIDS Control Organisation.

Manipur is among the six high HIV/AIDS prevalence states in India, with the first HIV case being reported in the state in 1990.

The state government constituted the Manipur State AIDS Control Society as the nodal agency in March 1998 to combat an epidemic. Manipur, with hardly 0.2 per cent of India’s population, is contributing 8 per cent of the country’s HIV-positive cases.

Sikkim Earthquake Casts Shadow on Northeast Hydro Projects

Experts from IIT asked to analyse seismic data, assess quake impact on hydropower projects of state-run companies

By Utpal Bhaskar

Uphill task: Disaster management officials at a collapsed building in Gangtok. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is scheduled to visit earthquake-hit areas of Sikkim on Thursday. By PTI

New Delhi, Sep 28 : India’s power ministry has asked seismic experts from the Indian Institute of Technology-Roorkee (IIT-R) to conduct earthquake impact studies at the dam sites of state-owned NHPC Ltd and North Eastern Electric Power Corp. Ltd (Neepco).

The Sikkim earthquake has raised questions on the future of India’s hydropower development. The 18 September 6.8 magnitude earthquake on the Sikkim-Nepal border has wreaked havoc in the Himalayan country and the Indian state, and scientists say the likelihood of a much greater earthquake in north India remains. At least 118 people have been killed in Sikkim, West Bengal and Bihar in the quake.

Uphill task: Disaster management officials at a collapsed building in Gangtok. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is scheduled to visit earthquake-hit areas of Sikkim on Thursday. By PTI

Teesta Urja Ltd, which is building the 1,200MW Teesta-III project in Sikkim, suffered losses of personnel, with 17 people killed, one missing and 10 hurt.

The decision to take IIT-R’s help was taken at a review meeting last Thursday that was chaired by minister of state (power ministry) K.C. Venugopal.

“It was decided to avail the services of seismic experts from IIT-R to analyse earthquake data and conduct the earthquake impact study at the dam sites of NHPC in the region, and more specifically those in Sikkim,” the ministry said in a statement. “Neepco was also asked to compile the seismic data collected from its power stations in north-eastern states for further analysis at IIT-R.”

The total hydropower generation potential of India’s north-eastern states and Bhutan is about 58,000MW. Of this, Arunachal Pradesh alone accounts for 50,328MW. Sikkim, as well as most of north India, falls in seismic zones 4 and 5, regions classified as highly vulnerable to high-intensity quakes.

Any delays in construction of hydropower projects in the region, particularly those on rivers originating in China, would affect India’s strategy of establishing its prior-use claim, according to international law.

India is concerned that hydropower projects planned in Arunachal Pradesh may be affected by China’s plan to divert water from rivers that flow into the Brahmaputra to the arid zones of Xinjiang and Gansu.

“India’s hydro potential is locked in the North-East,” said former power secretary Anil Razdan. “You can’t plan for this kind of thing. It is a grey area. Earthquake prediction is very difficult.”

Hydropower projects come with their own set of problems. Their construction requires specialized technology and design. They also have to deal with geological surprises such as earthquakes, floods and landslides. With the share of hydropower generated in the country falling from 40% to 25% in the past 20 years, the government is worried as this makes up only 38,206MW of the 181,558MW power generating capacity.

“We and Neepco are the major hydropower developers active in the North-East. We’ll study data from our monitoring centres to know the impact of the quake for future references,” said D.P. Bhargava, director, technical, NHPC. “We’ll first study it internally and then send it to IIT-R.”

NHPC has a power generation capacity of 5,295MW that includes two operating projects in Sikkim. It is constructing a 2,000MW project in Arunachal Pradesh and also has plans to set up projects having a total capacity of 6,696MW in north-eastern states such as Sikkim, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

Bhargava defended the design of his projects. “There has been no damage to our projects,” he said. “We design our projects for earthquakes and such an incident should not stop us for planning for projects in the region.”

Several hydro projects have been delayed and India has met less than half the target of 14,393MW set for hydropower generation in the 10th Five-year Plan period (2002-07).

The country plans to add another 16,501.17MW of hydropower capacity by 2012. While the country has a hydropower potential of 300,000MW, around 145,000MW of this can be exploited.

Utpal.b@livemint.com

Facebook Is Tracking Your Every Move on the Web; Here’s How to Stop It

By Alan Henry

Facebook Is Tracking Your Every Move on the Web; Here's How to Stop It

The Issue: Facebook's Social Apps are Always Watching

Over the weekend, Dave Winer wrote an article at Scripting.com explaining how Facebook keeps track of where you are on the web after logging in without your consent. Nik Cubrilovic dug a little deeper, and discovered that Facebook can still track where you are, even if you log out. Facebook, for its part, has denied the claims. Regardless of who you believe, here's how to protect yourself, and keep your browsing history to yourself.

The whole issue has stirred up a lot of debate in privacy circles over the past few days. Here's what the fuss is about, and what you can do to protect your privacy if you're worried.

For quite some time now, Facebook's user tracking hasn't been limited to your time on the site: any third-party web site or service that's connected to Facebook or that uses a Like button is sending over your information, without your explicit permission. However, Winer noticed something mostly overlooked in last week's Facebook changes: Facebook's new Open Graph-enabled social web apps all send information to Facebook and can post to your profile or share with your friends whether you want them to or not.

Essentially, by using these apps, just reading an article, listening to a song, or watching a video, you're sending information to Facebook which can then be automatically shared with your friends or added to your profile, and Facebook doesn't ask for your permission to do it. Winer's solution is to simply log out of Facebook when you're not using it, and avoid clicking Like buttons and tying other services on the web to your Facebook account if you can help it, and he urges Facebook to make its cookies expire, which they currently do not.

Facebook Is Tracking Your Every Move on the Web; Here's How to Stop It

Digging Deeper: Logging Out Isn't Enough

Nik Cubrilovic looked over Winer's piece, and discovered that logging out of Facebook, as Winer suggests, may deauthorize your browser from Facebook and its web applications, but it doesn't stop Facebook's cookies from sending information to Facebook about where you are and what you're doing there.

Writing at AppSpot, he discovered that Facebook's tracking cookies-which never expire, are only altered instead of deleted when a user logs out. This means that the tracking cookies still have your account number embedded in them and still know which user you are after you've logged out.

That also means that when you visit another site with Facebook-enabled social applications, from Like buttons to Open Graph apps, even though you're a logged out user, Facebook still knows you're there, and by "you," we mean specifically your account, not an anonymous Facebook user. Cubrilovic notes that the only way to really stop Facebook from knowing every site you visit and social application you use is to log out and summarily delete all Facebook cookies from your system.

Facebook Is Tracking Your Every Move on the Web; Here's How to Stop It

Why You Should Care

If you're the type of person who doesn't really use Facebook for anything you wouldn't normally consider public anyway, you should take note: everything you do on the web is fair game. If what Cubrilovic and Winer are saying is true, Facebook considers visiting a web site or service that's connected to Facebook the same thing as broadcasting it to your friends at worst, and permission for them to know you're there at best.

Facebook says that this has nothing to do with tracking movements, and that they have no desire to collect information about where you are on the web and what you're doing. They want to make sure that you can seamlessly log in at any time to Facebook and to sites and services that connect with it and share what you're doing.

In fact, a number of Facebook engineers have posted comments to Winer's original post and Cubrilovic's analysis pointing this out. There's also some excellent discussion in this comment thread at Hacker News about the issue as well. Essentially, they say this is a feature, not a problem, so if you have an issue with it, it's up to you to do something about it.

What Can I Do About It?

Whether or not Facebook is tracking your browsing even when you're logged out, if you don't want third-party sites to send data to Facebook, you have some options. You could scrub your system clean of all Facebook.com cookies every time you use Facebook, but a number of developers have already stepped up with browser extensions to block Facebook services on third-party sites. Here are a few:

  • Facebook Privacy List for Adblock Plus is perfect for those of you who already have AdBlock Plus installed (get ABP for Chrome or Firefox). Just download the subscription and add it to AdBlock Plus to specifically block Facebook plugins and scripts all over the web—including the Like button-whenever you're not visiting Facebook directly.
  • Facebook Disconnect for Chrome keeps Facebook from dropping those tracking cookies on your system in the first place, and disables them when you're finished using Facebook-enabled services. It's essentially an on/off switch for third-party access to Facebook servers, meaning you'll still be able to log in to Facebook and use the site normally, but when you're visiting another site or using another application, that site or service won't be able to use your information to communicate with Facebook.
  • Full size

    Disconnect for Chrome and Firefox is a new plugin from the developer behind Facebook Disconnect, but it doesn't stop with Facebook. Disconnect takes protection to a another level and blocks tracking cookies from Facebook, Google, Twitter, Digg, and Yahoo, and prevents all of those services from obtaining your browsing or search history from third party sites that you may visit. The app doesn't stop any of those services from working when you're visiting the specific sites, for you can still search at Google and use Google+, but Google's +1 button likely won't work on third party sites, for example. The extension also lets you see how many requests are blocked, in real time as they come in, and unblock select services if, for example, you really want to Like or +1 an article you read, or share it with friends.

Ultimately, the goal of all of these tools is to give you control over what you share with Facebook or any other social service, and what you post to your profile, as opposed to taking a backseat and allowing the service you're using to govern it for you. What's really at issue is exactly how deep Facebook has its fingers into your data, and how difficult they-and other social services-make it to opt out or control what's sent or transmitted. That's where extensions like these come in.

However you feel about it, Facebook likely won't change it in the near future. If you're concerned, you should to take steps to protect your privacy. As a number of commenters at Hacker News point out, it's not that there's anything inherently "good" or "evil" about what Facebook is doing-that would be oversimplifying an already complex topic. It's really an opt-in/opt-out issue.

What do you think of the assertions? Do you think Facebook has a vested interest in knowing as much about you and your browsing habits as possible, or is this much ado about nothing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

source: lifehacker.com

An End to India's Longest Insurgency?

By Biswajyoti Das

This Aug. 14, 2005 photo shows a Naga rebel in the in northeastern Indian state of Nagaland. REUTERS/Adnan Abidi

This photo shows a Naga rebel in the in northeastern Indian state of Nagaland.

Guwahati, Sep 28 : An end may at last be in sight to India's longest running insurgency, which has killed tens of thousands, with talks between the government and tribal rebels in the troubled northeast inching closer towards a peace deal.

A myriad of violent insurgencies have beset India's northeastern region for decades, killing over 50,000 people since the country's independence in 1947.

But the oldest insurgency launched by Naga rebels over 60 years ago in the remote mountainous region of Nagaland may soon see an end after 14 years of protracted negotiations. The rebels have been demanding a separate homeland for the ethnic Naga people.

About 20,000 people have been killed in the conflict. A 1997 ceasefire truce has largely capped the violence, but inter-factional fighting has continued.

Leaders of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) faction -- headed by T. Muivah and Isak Chishi Swu -- and federal authorities in New Delhi are now in the last stages of a final agreement.

Officials say a deal which includes giving increased powers to lawmakers in Nagaland, as well as creating autonomous councils for Nagas in their stronghold regions of Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh could well be the solution.

Both officials and rebel leaders have said the deal could be signed sometime in November or December this year, but have refused to divulge more details. "There has been progress although some of the issues are yet to be sorted out. It would be difficult to give any dates,” said R.S. Pandey, interlocutor for the Naga talks told the Hindustan Times newspaper.

Nagaland has a history of tribal and ethnic rifts. All past peace initiatives have failed to resolve the age-old animosity between the various Naga tribes and many remain sceptical saying that without all factions involved, there can never truly be peace.

"Even if an accord is signed with the NSCN, a new group will definitely come up opposing the deal. History is witness to it in Nagaland," said a senior journalist in Dimapur, the commercial hub of Nagaland.

India Wants To Double Trade With Myanmar

india Burma trade in MizoramNew Delhi, Sep 28 : Leveraging the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, India wants to double its commerce with Myanmar and diversify the bilateral engagement to agro-research and natural gas exploration.

The India-Myanmar trade, comprising pulses, meat, products, timber and pharmaceuticals, is only USD 1.5 billion at present.

"I propose that we work towards doubling of bilateral trade by 2015. We also need to work towards broad-basing our trade basket," Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said while chairing Joint Trade Commission meeting along with Myanmar Commerce Minister U Win Myint here.

Sharma said business community of the two countries should utilise Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme and the ASEAN FTA channels to diversify the bilateral trade.

India has operationalised its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN), of which Myanmar is a leading member.

Sharma said construction of the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project comprising waterway and roadway by 2013 would transform the trade between India's north-eastern states and the rest of the world.

Being built at USD 120 million, the project envisages a direct trade corridor between Indian ports on the eastern seaboard and Sittwe Port in Myanmar and then through riverine transport and by road to Mizoram.

The two countries have recognized the need to collaborate in building a land customs station at India-Myanmar Border (at Mizoram).

It was noted that the border trade point at Moreh, on Indian side and Tamu, on Myanmar side, is stabilising.

Sharma invited his Myanmar counterpart to inaugurate the second border trade point at Zowkhatar (Mizoram) that will connect to Rhi in Myanmar. The ministers stressed the need for two additional border trade points - Pangsau Pass (in Arunachal Pradesh) and Avangkhung (in Nagaland).

India and Myanmar have also expanded the list of items for border trade from 22 to 40.

Sharma offered India's assistance for capacity building in agricultural research and improving the seed variety in Myanmar.

He said India is keen to participate in the gas sector of Myanmar. Indian companies have shown interest in setting up of gas-based units and invest in LNG infrastructure.

He also pushed for Indian participation in allocation of gas blocks in Myanmar. The Myanmar side showed strong support for the proposal, a Commerce Ministry statement said.

Myanmar is source of one-third of India's imports in pulses and one-fifth in timber.

With the implementation of India-ASEAN FTA and the Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme, the two countries can step up the commercial engagement, it was noted at the meeting.

27 September 2011

Mizo Villagers Flee As Dam 'Poses Threat'

Serlui-B Dam under contruction in MizoramAizawl, Sep 27 : Villagers of North Chawnpui in northern Mizoram have fled their homes every night as they fear that the dam of Serlui B could collapse anytime.

As we can no longer get a sound sleep in our homes, which could be inundated by waters anytime, we sleep in two large halls at a place called Tlangveng which lies at higher altitude, about two kilometers from our village, said Lalngheta, a resident of North Chawnpui said.

According to Lalngheta, there are 77 families in the village, who packed up before the sunset and left the village for each night since the last few weeks. We venture out of our village during the daytime to do our daily works. Those family members who remain at home prepare dinner which we have usually before sunset. Then we leave the village for the night. That is our daily routine since the last few weeks, Mr Lalngheta said.

The halls where they sleep have been constructed with fund from the MGNREGS. This fear has been caused by the water leakage at the surge shaft gate which also prevented the much-awaited 12 MW Serlui B hydel project from being commissioned.

The villagers fear that the possibility of inundation is high as their village is situated only two kilometers away from the dam and the route of Serlui B river passes through the village. Officials may not share our fear because they don t see the ground reality. Let them come here and spend the night with their wives and children and only would they understand the situation, the villager said.

We are well aware of the water leakage in the dam, and that even engineers from the company have not been able to fix it, he said. According to officials, water is leaking from the surge shaft gate when sealed at the rate higher than permissible amount.

According to the agreement, the leakage of water from the sealed surge shaft gate should not be higher than 1.2 liters per second. In that case, the Serlui B hydel project cannot be commissioned even though the project has been completed, power and electricity engineer-in-chief C L Thangliana has said. The official informed that the contractors have been trying to fix the defect.

The surge shaft gate had a test run during last year s monsoon when the reservoir was filled to the brim.

The works at the biggest state-owned hydel project were divided into five major phases--earthen dam, diversion tunnel, powerhouse, spillway tunnel and hydro-mechanical works. The first four phases were completed on May 30, 2009 and completion certificates have been submitted.

Even though the hydro-mechanicals works have also been completed, completion certificate is yet to be submitted as it has not been formally on test-run, the officials said.

Facts About Serlui-B Dam
Operator: Mizoram Power & Electricity Dept
Configuration: 3 X 4 MW Kaplan
Operation: 2008
T/G supplier: BHEL
EPC: Patel Engineering, Aarti Infra-Projects, Mecon

Quick facts: This is the largest hydro plant in Mizoram. The site is near Bilkhawthlir Village in Kolasib dstrict. The DPR was approved in Feb 1999 and a turnkey contract was awarded to BHEL and Mecon in Dec 2003. Serlui-B has a 293m long, 51m high earthfill dam a 415m headrace tunnel, a 135m pressure tunnel, and a semi-underground powerhouse. The project cost Rs 191cr.

Photograph courtesy of Mizoram Power & Electricity Dept

Mizoram Govt To Check Human Trafficking

human_trafficking mizoramAizawl, Sep 27 :  Mizoram Home minister R Lalzirliana has assured the people of Mizoram that the state government will take all necessary measures to check human trafficking and take actions against any person involved. The minister was saying this while delivering a speech at an “Anti-Human Trafficking Sunday” organized by Community Health Action Network (CHAN) Sept 25 in Aizawl.

“Human trafficking has become one of the most lucrative and biggest trades in the present world”, said Zirliana. The Mizoram police department will take every extra necessary measure to check the menace.

The state government in close collaboration with police department has already set up Anti-Human Trafficking Unit in Aizawl and Lunglei district and there has been a plan to set up the same in Kolasib and Champhai districts for which the Central government had already given assurance to the Mizoram government, said the state Home minister.

Highlighting awareness initiated by the government, he said that State Level Training of Trainers had also been organized while AIR and Doordarshan had telecasted 'talk shows' on the subject, sensitization program was also organised for the govt officials and NGOs, course on anti-human trafficking for the police officers. Lalzirliana while expressing happiness towards CHAN for their efforts to check human trafficking urged the NGO to work judiciously in line with the government.

As per United Nations report, about 2 million girls were being trafficked. Expert said about Rs. 185 million has been garnered only through sex trade daily, said Lalzirliana.

Mizoram has recorded 18 cases of human trafficking during the last 11 years, according to Mizoram police chief Lalrokhuma Pachuau. He said this earlier this month during a state level training of trainers on anti-human trafficking in Aizawl. The top cop said the 18 cases were official records and the actual number of human trafficking incidents could be much higher as many cases went unreported due to fear of stigmatization.

Joseph Lalchhuana, SSP CID Crime, Mizoram while speaking to NNN regarding the emerging trend of human trafficking in Mizoram said Myanmarese infiltrated and work as domestic servants, work as commercial sex workers, drugs peddlers etc.

They come through the porous international border with Bangladesh and Myanmar, said the police officer. Joseph then suggested some points for better anti-human trafficking tools. They are use of Mobile Technology and Internet as a tool to locate and connect victims, spreading awareness by using Mobile Technology, better coordinated action against traffickers through sharing of information via Internet and Mobile Phones.
  

Newmai News Network

Meet Kavita Sachdev, Mrs Globe Runner-Up From Assam

Kavita Sachdev

By Divya Nair

She learnt to be independent at the age of 18, was married at 24, a mother at 25 and today, at the age of 29, she is a reigning international model, all set to bag a Bollywood project.

In a candid chat with rediff.com, Mrs Globe 2011's first runner-up Kavita Sachdev tells us of her remarkable journey from chirpy smalltown girl to a successful woman.

In a country where women are expected to take care of kids and family post marriage (despite their educational/professional background), to even think of wearing a body-hugging dress that ends above the knee for an evening is considered disgraceful. To add to that, if the woman comes from a small town in Assam, you will agree that it means going against the grain -- opting for glam takes guts, a lot more effort and when it boils down to it, hard work.

But Kavita Sachdev -- who was crowned Mrs Gladrags 2010 and first runner-up of the Mrs Globe 2011 pageant on August 27 in California, beating 39 other international contestants -- considers herself lucky, not only to have parents who stood by her decisions, but also a mother-in-law who coaxed her to participate in the contest and a doting husband who helped her fulfill the dream.

In the following pages, she recounts her remarkable experiences and discusses beauty, modelling, motherhood and more.

'It was my mother-in-law who suggested I participate in the Mrs India contest'

Kavita Sachdev

Who suggested you participate in the Mrs Gladrags 2010 and Mrs Globe 2011 pageants?

It was my mother-in-law who suggested I participate in the Mrs India contest. When my husband Nicholai heard about it, he jumped at the idea. I was not sure if I should, but he egged me on.

You won't believe it, but I haven't ever gotten my portfolio shot professionally. My husband chose from among my best pictures, filled up the form himself and mailed it. I was lucky I got a call from them saying they liked my pictures and that I should contest in the pageant. I had no clue what was in store for me.

What were you doing before the pageant happened? Were you always a model?

I was working as an airhostess with an airline company for three years, till I found my Prince Charming and decided to quit. I was never really a model, but I have done a few modelling assignments when I was studying in Sophia's College in Mumbai.

Tell us a little about your college days.

I used to stay in a hostel, so I had a lot of free time and I don't like sitting idle. I would either explore the city or attend an acting class, or get involved in some social activity. So one day a friend said, 'Hey, you got a great figure, you are tall; why don't you try modelling?'

That was how it all started. Plus, my pocket money was taken care of. So I was always on my toes. I loved the feeling of being independent.

'All my friends went to Delhi, but my dad didn't think it a safe city'

Kavita Sachdev

What brought you to Mumbai?

I belong to a small town in Assam. I did my schooling and studied there till Class 12. But my dad wanted me to move out of Assam to pursue graduation. All my friends were going to Delhi, but he wasn't sure of how safe it would be for me.

So a friend and I proposed that we come to Mumbai. Until then, I had no clue about what Mumbai was, I had never been here before. So, I came along with my dad; he took a trip around the city and said he liked the place. Within five days, he enrolled me at Sophia's College, arranged for my hostel stay and left for Assam. I was just 18 then. I had no experience of living in a city before.

To add to it, the only relatives I knew stayed in Andheri, which demanded that I travel quite far after college. So it was difficult for me to depend upon them for my basic needs. I was worried how I would manage by myself. But I must say that Mumbai has been an awesome place to live in.

I came to the city in 1999. It's been 12 years today and I still feel so warm and welcome, like I felt 12 years ago. I think most of what I am today comes from what I learned from this city in my struggling days.

How did your parents react when you first told them about your modelling assignments?

Fortunately for me, my parents have been super-supportive in everything I do. I would talk to them over the phone and keep them informed about everything.

According to me, modelling was not a full time thing or a conscious career decision. It was one of the many things I did during my college days that kept me happy. They never questioned my decisions or advised me otherwise. They trusted me and believed in my decisions. I think that motivated me so far.

'Back home in Assam, people do not value the modelling profession'

Kavita Sachdev

What was growing up in Assam like?

It was very calm and de-stressing, devoid of competition like we have today. We used to stay in a joint family for 5-6 years, so, we were used to living together. The fact that my father was a research scientist put a lot of pressure on me as everyone expected us to score well. But I was pretty average at academics. I was more interested in playing games, extra-curricular activities etc. My brother was more studious, so were my two younger sisters.

People there are a little reserved and value academics over extra-curricular activities. I am glad I had a different exposure and could pursue my interests. Some time back when I visited my parents in Assam, I realised that things have not changed much today. They still do not value the modelling profession; neither did they value me being an airhostess. According to me, it's not a healthy thing.

People need to understand and look beyond their conventions. Just because a woman gives up her job to look after her kids doesn't make her any less beautiful.

I think each profession has its hardships and struggle so it is not right to judge a person based on looks, perception or convention alone. But I have realised that no matter how intelligent and dedicated you are, unless you are a 'someone', people do not value what you say.

Why did you choose to be an air hostess then?

After completing my graduation, I was confused like every other 21-year-old. I wasn't sure if I should consider higher studies nor did I have a definite subject in mind to do my masters.

One day, I went to my friend's place and I saw her dressing up in a sari. I asked her where she was going and she told me it was for an interview. I asked her if I could also come along. I went there and got selected. Since I had no plan B, I grabbed the offer.

So did you like the job?

Of course. It was so much fun. I love to travel and this job was exactly what I wanted. The fact that I could be in a new city every day/week made it all the more enjoyable for me.

I could meet so many different people, understand different cultures, learn new languages, all while I was working and getting paid for it. I was always attracted to the service industry. 

'I did not want to be labelled a mere homemaker'

Kavita Sachdev

When and where did you meet your 'Prince Charming'?

This is a really interesting story. It may seem very ordinary to you, but I met him on a flight. His family runs an art gallery, so he used to fly so often that I would bump into him every other flight. It was quite unusual to bump into the same person on almost every second or third journey. Frankly, I wasn't attracted to him then.

But once, during the deluge of July 26, we were caught up in the same flight that was stuck at Hyderabad. He was concerned about my safety and so we exchanged numbers. I repeatedly told him that my airline would take care of me and that he need not worry. But the gentleman that he was, he repeatedly sent me text messages to enquire about my safety. As usual, I ignored him and did not bother to reply.

However, it so happened that when I was at a restaurant having dinner with a friend's family, I saw him walk into the restaurant. I realised that I felt so guilty about facing him, since I had not replied to his text messages.

So, I politely walked up to him and said, 'Hello Mr err...Sam...' and he corrected me, saying 'No, I am not Sam, I am Nicholai and you are Kavita, I know you'. I realised that he remembered my name and I felt even more awkward. I told him how sorry I felt about my behaviour and he told me not to worry about it. Since that day, we started talking more often and we realised that we loved each other's company.

Why did you quit your job after marriage?

I was in love, rather we were in love and I realised that after marriage, I could not afford to stay away from him for my work. So, I decided to quit and stay with him and help him in his family business.

Soon, I got pregnant, we had a baby -- a very beautiful one. She kept me busy all the while. But there were times when I thought to myself, 'Is this all I am going to do in my life? Look after my kid and have no life of my own?' I was blank.

I considered going back to work. But I had already put on a lot of weight after marriage, so I had to first lose those extra kilos I had gained, before I could even think of anything. It was not easy. It's a natural way of life.

Most women tend to ignore their likes and dislikes for the sake of their families. Most importantly, they don't take care of their bodies. I am sure every woman wants to dress well, look beautiful, be appreciated. I felt the same.

I did not want to be labelled a mere homemaker. I knew I deserved more than that. And I was determined to take the effort. I was just 25.

'While I am away, it is my husband's duty to take care of our daughter'

Kavita with her husband Nicholai and daughter Kasha

How long did it take for you to be back in shape?

It wasn't easy at all. It took me close to a year and a half to come back to my normal shape.

What diet did you follow? What exercises did you do?

Ever since I became an adult, I was conscious about eating healthy food. I do not believe in dieting or cutting down on food intake to achieve a certain size; I believe in eating proportionate, eating healthy and having a balanced diet. I say that to my daughter also. She is barely four, but she attends a yoga class.

Post pregnancy, a lot of people suggested that I try the so-called-famous General Motors Diet and similar-sounding popular diet regimes. I refused, for I fail to understand how people expect you to be fit when they are surviving on food that they don't like or enjoy eating.

So I chose to eat healthy and eat less, do exercises regularly. I would go to the gym and work out. In the end, it all paid off. Now, I am back in shape. (smiles confidently)

Who takes care of your daughter when you are away at work?

Initially, I thought it was difficult. But between my husband and me, we have a mutual pact. While we are together, we will jointly take responsibility of our daughter. While I am away it is his duty to take care of her.

Although we have a 24-hour nanny, a driver and cook at home, plus my in-laws stay in the same building as ours, before I leave, I write down a whole list of things to do throughout the day.

When I am at home, I ensure that I spend the whole day with her, from the minute she wakes up, to dropping her to school, to picking her up, helping her in studies, reading her a book, playing with her in the park and feeding her. She is so used to being with me that when I am around, she needs no one else. I try to spend as much time as I can with her.

Image: Kavita with her husband Nicholai and daughter Kasha

'As a mother, I am very principled and believe in discipline'

Kavita Sachdev (centre) with fellow pageant participants at Mrs Globe 2011

How does your daughter react when she sees your picture in a magazine or on TV?

Oh, she absolutely loves it. She calls me Mrs India at home. She's just four and she has a fetish for dresses. She says she will only wear frocks to school. She tells me how wearing pants is boyish and that girls should only wear frocks. So I have to tell her that she cannot wear them all the time, especially when they have their activity classes.

How do you react to her tantrums?

Sometimes their demands are unreasonable, so we have to explain and reason why so that they understand. Similarly, I believe that my daughter should have the best of resources but at the same time, she should be grounded and should know what her values are. So, when it comes to being a mother, I am very principled and believe in discipline.

Also, I believe it is important to give them freedom to think and make decisions. Just like my parents did. If we go to a restaurant, I always ask her first what she wants before ordering. It is important to consider their choices and value them for once.

Coming back to your modelling career, have you ever faced any embarrassing situation on the ramp -- a wardrobe malfunction, or a technical error? How do you deal with such situations?

(Thinks) Well, not really a wardrobe malfunction, but this happened to me at the finale of Mrs Globe. I was wearing this pretty green dress for the finale and just minutes prior to the show, one of my earrings fell off.

I was selected among the top 15 and I did not have a earring to match. I obviously could not go on stage without earrings, so I was upset about it. I wanted to cry.

Suddenly one of the contestants who got eliminated for the last round walked up to me and gave me her earrings. I wondered to myself, 'Why did she do that?' In the end we are competitors, she had nothing to gain out of it, but she chose to help me. I was so full of gratitude; I hugged her, and thanked her for helping me. I think I was just plain lucky. I was the first runner-up.

Image: Kavita Sachdev (centre) with fellow pageant participants at Mrs Globe 2011

'People thought I was snobbish and arrogant'

Kavita Sachdev

How has life changed after winning the pageant?

I don't think life has changed much. I am very much the same. It's just that I believe that a lot of people in the industry, especially some model friends thought that I was very snobbish or arrogant. Well, that's just because of who I am. I do not enjoy gossip.

So, during the Mrs India pageant, after the shoot was over, while everyone else was at the pool or indulged in some gossip, I would walk out politely. They really thought that I was arrogant and was way too confident that I would win the contest.

When I read it in the papers, I called one of them and asked her why she felt so. Some of them also thought that I was buttering up the organisers and had no talent whatsoever to win the contest. Others even commented about the fact that I was an airhostess and not a model. So I did not deserve to be there.

I was hurt when I heard that; but when I won Mrs Globe, I think all those who said these things against me got their answers.

What was it like working with Maureen Wadia?

Oh my God, I call her a superwoman. She can do so many things at the same time. Multitasker is an understatement. She is omnipresent.

You will see her at the shoot, at the makeup room, backstage, fervently giving away instructions to models, organisers, designers. She never looks tired or stressed and handles everything so perfectly. She is a powerhouse of energy. With her around, you will never have a dull moment.

In fact to give you an example, on the day of my shoot, my daughter fell and broke her arm. She fell in my presence and that made me feel even more responsible for it. So, I was sitting in a corner worrying about it, how bad a mother I was. Maureen, who saw me worried, came and sat next to me.

She held my hand in hers and told me how it was not my fault and that I should not worry so much. 'You did not do it intentionally,' she said. After all, every mother thinks and does the best for her child.' She told me how I must deal with things better in such situations. Her words meant a lot to me.

That day I saw another side to her. I felt relieved and I look up to her as an inspiration. She can teach you a lot about confidence and management.

Now that you have won the pageant, what are your plans for the next few years?

Well, now that I have a title, I shall consider it my responsibility to dedicate time to a social cause. I believe that there are a lot of women who are housewives who are not privileged to work and be independent. I would like to approach these women and provide them with basic education so that I can help provide them with some employment.

I would certainly like to get involved in social causes that are aimed at women and children empowerment. Meanwhile, I would like to continue my interest in acting. I have been approached by a director, but I haven't finalised the project. If I really like the project, I may sign on the dotted line. 

'When I see a man who respects women, I am impressed'

Kavita Sachdev

After all that serious talk, we quizzed the international beauty queen on her likes and dislikes. She goes on to share her dating experiences and more:

Your favourite cuisine: Japanese and Italian

Your favourite drink: Coconut water

Food that you avoid: Processed food, white bread, burgers etc

Your favourite hangout: Ideally, I prefer to chill out at a friend's home or terrace; but occasionally, I don't mind indulging at China House, or Trilogy in Mumbai.

Music you enjoy: I love listening to country music, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Sufi music, jazz. But when it comes to dance, I love hip-hop.

Favourite movie of all time: Life is Beautiful

Your favourite book: To Kill A Mocking Bird

Preferred travel destination: Paris. I just loved the architecture of the place. Everything about the place is so beautiful. Beautiful people, beautiful buildings...everyone looks so beautiful. I would love to go there again.

Make up you can't live without: Sun block and Kaajal.

Your biggest indulgence: Spas

Your idea of a perfect date: Somewhere by the beach or an island -- a champagne is a must!

Things that turn you on in a man: How a man smells is definitely a turn-on. Besides, when I see a man who has respect for women, I am definitely impressed.

Things that turn you off in a man: Bad body odour; If a man talks too much without letting the other speak or if he displays arrogance and appears boastful, I am turned off.

Cheesiest pick-up line you've ever encountered: Well, there are loads, but the most common one would be: 'I am new to the city. Will you show me around?' What do I look like, a tour guide? I wonder! (giggles)

'You have every right to look beautiful and be appreciated for it'

Kavita Sachdev

What would you do if a date went wrong?

Well, as girls, we have this instinctive feeling that the guy we are going out with may not be as interesting as he seems. So, I would either keep my friends informed or drop in a message in between the conversation asking one of my friends to call me. Then, I quickly make an excuse and cut short the date. While doing so, I 'd also ensure that I politely refuse his offer the next time.

Would you like to share any dating tips for young girls?

In this age of the Internet revolution, where you make quick friends and exchange numbers and e-mails at the click of a button, I think it is very important to know all about the person you are going out with.

Even though it's a blind date, you must do a check and find out who your mutual friends are and what his friends have to say about him.

Similarly, when you go out on a blind date, do take special care of the drinks that you order. Do not leave your drinks unattended and ideally avoid getting drunk on your first date.

One important fitness tip that you would like to share with our readers would be...

Take up a physical activity; but let it be a part of your life, rather than an enforced activity. Only then will you be able to enjoy and stick to it regularly.

One fashion tip that you would like to share with our readers?

Be simple, be classy. Do not follow trends for the heck of it. Being fit is more fashionable. Try it.

One suggestion you would like to make to married women?

Do not ignore yourself. You have every right to look beautiful and be appreciated for it. Do not sacrifice your personal interests and happiness for the sake of your kids and husband Try to find time to follow your hobbies and passion as well.

One suggestion that you would make to husbands?

Love your wife and respect her, the way she is. After all, she is the one who has left the world to live with you. You mean a lot to her. So, find time to make her feel special in your own way.