Showing posts with label today news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label today news. Show all posts
Friday, July 23, 2010
13 kids hurt in Mexico church collapse
At least 13 children and an adult were injured when a church near a Mexican port town collapsed, authorities said.
The church building, located about 10 km from Ensenada, came down when the children were on the second floor. The kids suffered mostly broken ribs in the incident, they said.
At the time of the collapse, several US citizens, who come from the neighbouring California state to perform social services, were also present. However, no injuries were reported among the visiting foreigners.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Centre begins tactical moves against Maoists
Escalating Maoist violence has forced the government to order the redeployment of security forces engaged in anti-Naxal operations in the states to prevent exposing paramilitary forces to the well-armed rebels in their strongholds.
In Chhattisgarh the CRPF and state police have identified locations for redeployment of CRPF, affecting 10 to 12 companies (1,000-1,200 personnel) of the paramilitary force. Redeployment will follow in Orissa and West Bengal. In Jharkhand, deployment of security forces has already been reviewed. Security forces have been told to strictly adhere to a grid pattern to reduce distances of troop posts, increase deployment in some posts, and shut down other posts keeping in view safety and operational requirements, government sources said.
In a clear admission of the military might of the Maoists, a government official said CRPF personnel are being told to employ withdrawal tactics in situations where they feel inadequate fighting huge bands of Maoists. The Naxals use weapons like the AK-47 assault rifle, which has a very high rate of fire, putting Central forces on the back foot. In the Narayanpur attack, 15 CRPF personnel died on the spot when the Maoist ambush began while the rest died battling the well-armed rebels. CRPF personnel are also being told not to venture out of camps unnecessarily. "Emphasis is being laid on basic facilities being made available inside the camps. The forces should move out only for operational needs," an official said.
Inputs from Chhattisgarh reveal that standard operating procedures (SOPs) for deployment in the states have been blatantly violated by state and Central forces. Reports suggest that Central forces were deployed in Narayanpur, Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada and Rajnandgaon districts in Chhattisgarh on the basis of assessments made in 2004 and 2006. Despite a number of attacks, and casualties, in the last few years in Chhattisgarh, SOPs on deployment of Central forces have not been reviewed for many years. "SOP clearly says the deployment plan of the Central forces should be finalised by the concerned state or district authorities in consultation with the force commander of the CPMF deployed for the purpose. The force commander is hardly taken into confidence while finalising deployment plans. Reports suggest that the force commander was not taken into confidence when the deployment of Central forces was extended in Narayanpur," sources said.
According to SOP, the Central paramilitary forces should be accompanied by state police personnel during all their movements, but there was not even a single official of the state police present when the Naxals executed their ambush in Narayanpur on Tuesday, sources said.
Sources added that it is standard operating procedure for Central paramilitary forces not to be deployed for normal law and order duties or static guard duties during long-term deployment in any state. "What is the use of continuous deployment of more than 5,500 Central paramilitary force personnel in Kanker district, and more than 1,000 personnel in Rajnandgaon district of the state? Their deployment must be reviewed immediately," sources said.
In Chhattisgarh the CRPF and state police have identified locations for redeployment of CRPF, affecting 10 to 12 companies (1,000-1,200 personnel) of the paramilitary force. Redeployment will follow in Orissa and West Bengal. In Jharkhand, deployment of security forces has already been reviewed. Security forces have been told to strictly adhere to a grid pattern to reduce distances of troop posts, increase deployment in some posts, and shut down other posts keeping in view safety and operational requirements, government sources said.
In a clear admission of the military might of the Maoists, a government official said CRPF personnel are being told to employ withdrawal tactics in situations where they feel inadequate fighting huge bands of Maoists. The Naxals use weapons like the AK-47 assault rifle, which has a very high rate of fire, putting Central forces on the back foot. In the Narayanpur attack, 15 CRPF personnel died on the spot when the Maoist ambush began while the rest died battling the well-armed rebels. CRPF personnel are also being told not to venture out of camps unnecessarily. "Emphasis is being laid on basic facilities being made available inside the camps. The forces should move out only for operational needs," an official said.
Inputs from Chhattisgarh reveal that standard operating procedures (SOPs) for deployment in the states have been blatantly violated by state and Central forces. Reports suggest that Central forces were deployed in Narayanpur, Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada and Rajnandgaon districts in Chhattisgarh on the basis of assessments made in 2004 and 2006. Despite a number of attacks, and casualties, in the last few years in Chhattisgarh, SOPs on deployment of Central forces have not been reviewed for many years. "SOP clearly says the deployment plan of the Central forces should be finalised by the concerned state or district authorities in consultation with the force commander of the CPMF deployed for the purpose. The force commander is hardly taken into confidence while finalising deployment plans. Reports suggest that the force commander was not taken into confidence when the deployment of Central forces was extended in Narayanpur," sources said.
According to SOP, the Central paramilitary forces should be accompanied by state police personnel during all their movements, but there was not even a single official of the state police present when the Naxals executed their ambush in Narayanpur on Tuesday, sources said.
Sources added that it is standard operating procedure for Central paramilitary forces not to be deployed for normal law and order duties or static guard duties during long-term deployment in any state. "What is the use of continuous deployment of more than 5,500 Central paramilitary force personnel in Kanker district, and more than 1,000 personnel in Rajnandgaon district of the state? Their deployment must be reviewed immediately," sources said.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
SBI extends teaser rate for 3 months
The country’s largest lender State Bank of India on Wednesday extended its eight per cent concessional home loan scheme, which is 0.5 per cent higher than its minimum lending or base rate, for another three months till September 30.
SBI fixed its base rate — the minimum lending rate — at 7.5 per cent which would replace its benchmark prime lending rate (BPLR) from July 1. The bank has decided to extend its popular home loan and car loan schemes and leave their terms unchanged, following the transition to base rate system from July 1, SBI said in a statement.
The rates will be valid till September 30, unless the base rate is revised in the meantime, it said. The floating rate component henceforth will, however, be linked to base rate, it said.
The popular home loan and car loan schemes by SBI was due to expire on June 30. For the first year, home loan would carry eight per cent interest rate and for the second and third years it would attract nine per cent rate. From the fourth year onwards, home loans up to Rs 50 lakh will be charged 9.25 per cent interest rate while higher loans will carry 9.75 per cent interest rate.
At present, the scheme carries 10 per cent interest rate from the fourth year onwards.
The same rates apply for SBH, which is a part for the State Bank group.
Car loans are also available at 10 per cent concessional rate. The bank also clarified that the rate of interest on other home loans, car loans, educational loans and personal loan products will be linked to the base rate for all disbursements from July 1.
On teaser rate, the SBI chairman, Mr O.P. Bhatt, had said the bank’s special home-loan scheme, even if continued, does not violate the RBI norms on base rate but the bank is yet to take a call on whether to extend the scheme or not.
SBI had extended the special scheme till June 30 owing to huge demand from its customers. The scheme was originally supposed to end by April 30.
Other major housing loan lenders such as ICICI Bank and HDFC also had earlier come out with teaser rate schemes on home loans.
Learn with DC
QWhat are teaser rates?
They are special low rates offered by banks and housing loan companies for a limited period to borrowers. The interest rate is gradually increased to the market rate over a period of time. Major lenders such as SBI, ICICI and HDFC had earlier come out with teaser rate schemes on home loans.
Q Why is the RBI against teaser rates?
It feels that it will encourage people to take loans beyond their paying capacity as the interest rates are ramped up from the second year onwards. This could result in a pile of bad loans for banks.
SBI fixed its base rate — the minimum lending rate — at 7.5 per cent which would replace its benchmark prime lending rate (BPLR) from July 1. The bank has decided to extend its popular home loan and car loan schemes and leave their terms unchanged, following the transition to base rate system from July 1, SBI said in a statement.
The rates will be valid till September 30, unless the base rate is revised in the meantime, it said. The floating rate component henceforth will, however, be linked to base rate, it said.
The popular home loan and car loan schemes by SBI was due to expire on June 30. For the first year, home loan would carry eight per cent interest rate and for the second and third years it would attract nine per cent rate. From the fourth year onwards, home loans up to Rs 50 lakh will be charged 9.25 per cent interest rate while higher loans will carry 9.75 per cent interest rate.
At present, the scheme carries 10 per cent interest rate from the fourth year onwards.
The same rates apply for SBH, which is a part for the State Bank group.
Car loans are also available at 10 per cent concessional rate. The bank also clarified that the rate of interest on other home loans, car loans, educational loans and personal loan products will be linked to the base rate for all disbursements from July 1.
On teaser rate, the SBI chairman, Mr O.P. Bhatt, had said the bank’s special home-loan scheme, even if continued, does not violate the RBI norms on base rate but the bank is yet to take a call on whether to extend the scheme or not.
SBI had extended the special scheme till June 30 owing to huge demand from its customers. The scheme was originally supposed to end by April 30.
Other major housing loan lenders such as ICICI Bank and HDFC also had earlier come out with teaser rate schemes on home loans.
Learn with DC
QWhat are teaser rates?
They are special low rates offered by banks and housing loan companies for a limited period to borrowers. The interest rate is gradually increased to the market rate over a period of time. Major lenders such as SBI, ICICI and HDFC had earlier come out with teaser rate schemes on home loans.
Q Why is the RBI against teaser rates?
It feels that it will encourage people to take loans beyond their paying capacity as the interest rates are ramped up from the second year onwards. This could result in a pile of bad loans for banks.
CM in dilemma over LPG price hike relief
he state government is in a dilemma over subsidising further the price of LPG cylinders, the price of which was recently hiked by Rs 35.
Though the Chief Minister, Mr K. Rosaiah, is keen on providing some relief to consumers, the quantum of relief is not decided. The government already subsidises each cylinder by Rs 25.
In discussions with the CM, officials laid out the figures. The state had been paying Rs 16 crore every month towards the previous subsidy of Rs 25 on each cylinder. Mr Rosaiah decided to discuss the issue threadbare in the cabinet meet scheduled for July 1.
The government had earlier considered waiving Value Added Tax on the increased price of diesel.
Sources said the officials told the Chief Minister that the net benefit to the customer would be 40 paise on each litre but the revenue loss to the state could be Rs 350 crore per year.
“While individual customers will not feel any benefit and acknowledge the government gesture, the state will lose heavily,” a senior minister pointed out.
The Chief Minister also heard the recommendations of members of the Group of Ministers on fee reimbursement to tighten the scheme. The suggestions included requiring 75 per cent attendance and passing every year in order to qualify, and withdrawal of the facility for students whose family income crosses Rs 1 lakh and who possess a car.
Though the Chief Minister, Mr K. Rosaiah, is keen on providing some relief to consumers, the quantum of relief is not decided. The government already subsidises each cylinder by Rs 25.
In discussions with the CM, officials laid out the figures. The state had been paying Rs 16 crore every month towards the previous subsidy of Rs 25 on each cylinder. Mr Rosaiah decided to discuss the issue threadbare in the cabinet meet scheduled for July 1.
The government had earlier considered waiving Value Added Tax on the increased price of diesel.
Sources said the officials told the Chief Minister that the net benefit to the customer would be 40 paise on each litre but the revenue loss to the state could be Rs 350 crore per year.
“While individual customers will not feel any benefit and acknowledge the government gesture, the state will lose heavily,” a senior minister pointed out.
The Chief Minister also heard the recommendations of members of the Group of Ministers on fee reimbursement to tighten the scheme. The suggestions included requiring 75 per cent attendance and passing every year in order to qualify, and withdrawal of the facility for students whose family income crosses Rs 1 lakh and who possess a car.
Caste census may get nod
Notwithstanding divisions in the Cabinet, the government is likely to give a green signal for inclusion of caste in census.
Sources said the meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM), constituted to go into the controversial issue on Thursday could decide on the modalities for such an exercise.
The GoM headed by the finance minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, may have to decide on the issue as the second part of the Census exercise is scheduled to begin in September.
Besides, the Monsoon Session of Parliament is expected to commence next month and a decision on the issue is vital given the fact that the last session saw virtual unanimity among the political class for inclusion of caste in the exercise.
The government had decided in May to set up the GoM on the controversial issue after consensus over the issue eluded at two meetings of the Union Cabinet. A caste census was last done in the year 1931.
Sources said the meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM), constituted to go into the controversial issue on Thursday could decide on the modalities for such an exercise.
The GoM headed by the finance minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, may have to decide on the issue as the second part of the Census exercise is scheduled to begin in September.
Besides, the Monsoon Session of Parliament is expected to commence next month and a decision on the issue is vital given the fact that the last session saw virtual unanimity among the political class for inclusion of caste in the exercise.
The government had decided in May to set up the GoM on the controversial issue after consensus over the issue eluded at two meetings of the Union Cabinet. A caste census was last done in the year 1931.
HC clears bypolls to 2 T-seats
The AP High Court on Wednesday directed the Election Commission to hold byelections in Vemulawada and Sircilla Assembly constituencies along with the byelections scheduled for 10 other constituencies on July 27.
A division bench comprising Justice V.V.S. Rao and Justice
Vilas V. Afzulpurkar gave this directive while allowing a writ petition filed by the Telangana Rastra Samiti. Sircilla was represented by Mr K.T. Rama Rao, son of the TRS chief, Mr K. Chandrasekhar Rao, and Vemulawada by Mr Ch Ramesh of the TD, who subsequently joined the TRS.
The EC had withheld the by-elections to both the constituencies as petitions were pending from the runners-up in the 2009 elections who wanted to be declared winners. The TRS welcomed the judgment.
Asked about the judgment, the Chief Electoral officer, Dr I.V. Subba Rao, told this newspaper that he had informed the EC. The Chief Election Commissioner, Mr Navim Chawla, told him that the full commission will take a decision on Thursday. Mr Rao said there was no problem in holding the bypolls since the electoral rools had been published for the two seats also.
The HC observed that the pendency of election petitions and the uncertain consequences that might follow would not in any manner dilute the effect of Section 151A of Representation of Peoples (RP) Act especially when the Speaker of Assembly has already notified the vacancies.
The bench said that Section 150 of the RP Act was silent on a seat becoming vacant during pendency of election petition. “But the silence in this regard does not enable withholding by-election,” said the judges.
Referring to the powers of the EC in withholding the election, the judges said, "It is not the case before us that the EC has consulted with the Centre and certified not to hold elections to two constituencies."
The bench said even if the elected candidate resigns during pendency of election petition against him, a by-election has to be held within a period of six months from the date of occurrence of the vacancy.
"Even if the petitioners in the two election petitions pending before the court win...the court can always deny the relief,” said the judges.
Referring to the apex court’s findings in Sanjeevayya case, the court also said the pendency of election petition and the possible consequences could not be used to ignore Section 151A.
The bench further said Article 190(3) (b) of the Constitution does not admit such differentiation and any vacancy that arises should be filled through as by-election within the period mandated by the Parliament.
A division bench comprising Justice V.V.S. Rao and Justice
Vilas V. Afzulpurkar gave this directive while allowing a writ petition filed by the Telangana Rastra Samiti. Sircilla was represented by Mr K.T. Rama Rao, son of the TRS chief, Mr K. Chandrasekhar Rao, and Vemulawada by Mr Ch Ramesh of the TD, who subsequently joined the TRS.
The EC had withheld the by-elections to both the constituencies as petitions were pending from the runners-up in the 2009 elections who wanted to be declared winners. The TRS welcomed the judgment.
Asked about the judgment, the Chief Electoral officer, Dr I.V. Subba Rao, told this newspaper that he had informed the EC. The Chief Election Commissioner, Mr Navim Chawla, told him that the full commission will take a decision on Thursday. Mr Rao said there was no problem in holding the bypolls since the electoral rools had been published for the two seats also.
The HC observed that the pendency of election petitions and the uncertain consequences that might follow would not in any manner dilute the effect of Section 151A of Representation of Peoples (RP) Act especially when the Speaker of Assembly has already notified the vacancies.
The bench said that Section 150 of the RP Act was silent on a seat becoming vacant during pendency of election petition. “But the silence in this regard does not enable withholding by-election,” said the judges.
Referring to the powers of the EC in withholding the election, the judges said, "It is not the case before us that the EC has consulted with the Centre and certified not to hold elections to two constituencies."
The bench said even if the elected candidate resigns during pendency of election petition against him, a by-election has to be held within a period of six months from the date of occurrence of the vacancy.
"Even if the petitioners in the two election petitions pending before the court win...the court can always deny the relief,” said the judges.
Referring to the apex court’s findings in Sanjeevayya case, the court also said the pendency of election petition and the possible consequences could not be used to ignore Section 151A.
The bench further said Article 190(3) (b) of the Constitution does not admit such differentiation and any vacancy that arises should be filled through as by-election within the period mandated by the Parliament.
Sharad Pawar takes over as ICC president
Former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief, Mr Sharad Pawar, on Thursday formally took over as president of the International Cricket Council (ICC) here.
Pawar, who is the second Indian after Mr Jagmohan Dalmiya to occupy the ICC top post, was given the charge during the annual conference week of the world cricket body.
Mr Dalmiya was the first Indian to be elected to the president's post in 1997.
Mr Pawar, who is also the Indian agriculture minister, is the seventh ICC president, succeeding Englishman David Morgan who concluded his two-year term.
He has taken over the top post at a crucial time when India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are scheduled to host the 2011 cricket World Cup.
Pawar, who is the second Indian after Mr Jagmohan Dalmiya to occupy the ICC top post, was given the charge during the annual conference week of the world cricket body.
Mr Dalmiya was the first Indian to be elected to the president's post in 1997.
Mr Pawar, who is also the Indian agriculture minister, is the seventh ICC president, succeeding Englishman David Morgan who concluded his two-year term.
He has taken over the top post at a crucial time when India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are scheduled to host the 2011 cricket World Cup.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Thanks DC, now the Worlds: Saina
A rousing reception got Hyderabad shuttler Saina Nehwal emotional as she arrived at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport here on Tuesday.
Saina, who returned to the city with three titles in three weeks — Indian Open Grand Prix Gold, Singapore Open Super Series and Indonesia Open Super Series — was eager to get home before she addressed the media at the Pullela Gopichand Academy.
“There are a lot of people I wish to thank for my achievements. Gopichand (sir) has always been there behind every success. It is still hard to believe that I am world No.3,” said Saina.
“In such a short span, he made me a top player,” said the 20-year-old of her coach, adding, “I would like to thank Deccan Chronicle for their support since August. It’s almost a year and I am really greatful to them for recognising my talent. I am really lucky and blessed.” Saina spoke on a variety of topics. Excerpts:
On her ranking: I am very happy to reach the top 3 but it’s time I start working more hard and winning more tournaments rather than concentrate on ranking.
Being World No.3 does not give me permission to skip practice or stop training. In fact, I will be training more rigourously now.
On the hat-trick: This feat is special because I don’t know when I will again win three in a row in three weeks. Last year was special because it was my first Super Series title.
On the gruelling schedule: It was very hectic for me. I was physically tired but my mental strength got me going. I am happy to have lived up to every one’s expectation. The motivation level goes up after every victory. Now, I have to stay focused and keep the momentum going.
The toughest one: The Indonesian Open. It was the last of three. So obviously I was tired. But again, when I look back, I think I had a really good time in every match I played, I’ll cherish all the 15 wins in the last three weeks.
On the upcoming events: Now, I’ll concentrate on the World Championships, the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. All I know is that I will have to give 100 per cent from my side. I will improve on my weak areas especially considering the weak points of other top players who I have played before. However, one cannot keep winning all tournaments. What is more important for me is that I remain injury-free.
Motivating factor: Making the quarterfinals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Since then I started believing that I can do it. I can even say that I have overcome the Chinese threat. I am no more worried. In fact, India is doing much better with the number of players performing well on the international circuit.
International players will have a different opinion about India now. Jwala (Gutta) and V. Diju did very well at the Indian Open, Kashyap reached the semifinals, Guru Sai Dutt was in the quarterfinals. So, it would not be wrong to say we are emerging as a strong force.
Badminton is getting recognition. There is a lot of talent here. I was amazed to see so many kids at the summer camp this season. There are so many who now follow the sport. I am once again thankful to Deccan Chronicle for promoting badminton apart from cricket.
On being a youth icon: There are so many youngsters who look up to me. Many follow my game too. Kids from the academy and elsewhere draw inspiration from me. So there are a lot of expectation to meet.
On being compared with cricketers and badminton great Prakash Padukone: I would take that as a compliment but it is not right to compare. I am happy with what I have achieved for my state and country and hope to continue winning more titles.
Saina, who returned to the city with three titles in three weeks — Indian Open Grand Prix Gold, Singapore Open Super Series and Indonesia Open Super Series — was eager to get home before she addressed the media at the Pullela Gopichand Academy.
“There are a lot of people I wish to thank for my achievements. Gopichand (sir) has always been there behind every success. It is still hard to believe that I am world No.3,” said Saina.
“In such a short span, he made me a top player,” said the 20-year-old of her coach, adding, “I would like to thank Deccan Chronicle for their support since August. It’s almost a year and I am really greatful to them for recognising my talent. I am really lucky and blessed.” Saina spoke on a variety of topics. Excerpts:
On her ranking: I am very happy to reach the top 3 but it’s time I start working more hard and winning more tournaments rather than concentrate on ranking.
Being World No.3 does not give me permission to skip practice or stop training. In fact, I will be training more rigourously now.
On the hat-trick: This feat is special because I don’t know when I will again win three in a row in three weeks. Last year was special because it was my first Super Series title.
On the gruelling schedule: It was very hectic for me. I was physically tired but my mental strength got me going. I am happy to have lived up to every one’s expectation. The motivation level goes up after every victory. Now, I have to stay focused and keep the momentum going.
The toughest one: The Indonesian Open. It was the last of three. So obviously I was tired. But again, when I look back, I think I had a really good time in every match I played, I’ll cherish all the 15 wins in the last three weeks.
On the upcoming events: Now, I’ll concentrate on the World Championships, the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. All I know is that I will have to give 100 per cent from my side. I will improve on my weak areas especially considering the weak points of other top players who I have played before. However, one cannot keep winning all tournaments. What is more important for me is that I remain injury-free.
Motivating factor: Making the quarterfinals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Since then I started believing that I can do it. I can even say that I have overcome the Chinese threat. I am no more worried. In fact, India is doing much better with the number of players performing well on the international circuit.
International players will have a different opinion about India now. Jwala (Gutta) and V. Diju did very well at the Indian Open, Kashyap reached the semifinals, Guru Sai Dutt was in the quarterfinals. So, it would not be wrong to say we are emerging as a strong force.
Badminton is getting recognition. There is a lot of talent here. I was amazed to see so many kids at the summer camp this season. There are so many who now follow the sport. I am once again thankful to Deccan Chronicle for promoting badminton apart from cricket.
On being a youth icon: There are so many youngsters who look up to me. Many follow my game too. Kids from the academy and elsewhere draw inspiration from me. So there are a lot of expectation to meet.
On being compared with cricketers and badminton great Prakash Padukone: I would take that as a compliment but it is not right to compare. I am happy with what I have achieved for my state and country and hope to continue winning more titles.
2-hr power cuts back as supply plummets
Daily two-hour power cuts are back in the city less than a month after they were withdrawn, and will continue indefinitely.
In the last couple of days, there have been power shutdowns in areas under 10 to 15 sub-stations at a time every one hour. The power cuts have become inevitable as there is a shortage of 120 mw every one hour.
The power shortage is mainly due to technical problems in the Kothagudem and Vijayawada thermal power stations.
The demand for power from the agriculture sector, too, has shot up during the ongoing kharif season. And the city's insatiable demand for power has increased from 19 million units in the first week of June to over 25 million units from June 26.
“There is no option but to take load relief. If we (central Discom) do not do so then power supply will be stopped from the 132 kv sub-station in order maintain frequency,” the Central Discom chief general manager (Metro Zone), Mr Sharat Chandra, told this correspondent.
Local problems have exacerbated the situation, such as the collapse of the 220 kv line tower due to blasting work for the Outer Ring Road at Shamirpet a week ago. On Monday, due to a cable fault at Nampally sub-station, several areas around exhibition grounds, Nampally, AC Guards, VN Colony and Shantinagar went without power.
Power supply is also switched off for as long as four hours at a stretch when trees have to be trimmed, something that really tests the patience of the long-suffering public.
In the last couple of days, there have been power shutdowns in areas under 10 to 15 sub-stations at a time every one hour. The power cuts have become inevitable as there is a shortage of 120 mw every one hour.
The power shortage is mainly due to technical problems in the Kothagudem and Vijayawada thermal power stations.
The demand for power from the agriculture sector, too, has shot up during the ongoing kharif season. And the city's insatiable demand for power has increased from 19 million units in the first week of June to over 25 million units from June 26.
“There is no option but to take load relief. If we (central Discom) do not do so then power supply will be stopped from the 132 kv sub-station in order maintain frequency,” the Central Discom chief general manager (Metro Zone), Mr Sharat Chandra, told this correspondent.
Local problems have exacerbated the situation, such as the collapse of the 220 kv line tower due to blasting work for the Outer Ring Road at Shamirpet a week ago. On Monday, due to a cable fault at Nampally sub-station, several areas around exhibition grounds, Nampally, AC Guards, VN Colony and Shantinagar went without power.
Power supply is also switched off for as long as four hours at a stretch when trees have to be trimmed, something that really tests the patience of the long-suffering public.
CBI: Raju is faking his illness
The CBI has expressed doubts about the medical reports submitted by the Nizams Institute of Medical Sciences on the Satyam prime accused, Mr B. Ramalinga Raju, and has sought an independent opinion by a panel of doctors on his health condition.
The investigation agency filed a memo making this request in the 21st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate court that is now hearing the Satyam case.
“His condition is not as bad as being projected in the Nims reports,” said the CBI special counsel, Mr K. Surender. “We have filed a memo that Raju is meeting people at Nims but is not appearing in court. Another petition regarding video linkage between court and Nims is also pending,”
Following this, the court directed the NIMS authorities to file a fresh report on health condition of Mr Raju by July 1, clarifying whether he is fit to appear in the court. Raju has been admitted in NIMS since September 2009 and is reportedly undergoing treatment for Hepatitis C.
The CBI has been arguing that Raju’s refusal to appear is causing abnormal delay in the trial of the case. The court had earlier ordered for the clubbing of three charge-sheets in the case.
The investigation agency filed a memo making this request in the 21st Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate court that is now hearing the Satyam case.
“His condition is not as bad as being projected in the Nims reports,” said the CBI special counsel, Mr K. Surender. “We have filed a memo that Raju is meeting people at Nims but is not appearing in court. Another petition regarding video linkage between court and Nims is also pending,”
Following this, the court directed the NIMS authorities to file a fresh report on health condition of Mr Raju by July 1, clarifying whether he is fit to appear in the court. Raju has been admitted in NIMS since September 2009 and is reportedly undergoing treatment for Hepatitis C.
The CBI has been arguing that Raju’s refusal to appear is causing abnormal delay in the trial of the case. The court had earlier ordered for the clubbing of three charge-sheets in the case.
Diesel decontrol certain, says PM
Fuel pricing reforms will go ahead full throttle notwithstanding opposition from the BJP-led NDA and the UPA partners. After petrol, retail prices of kerosene will be deregulated to trim the deficit and restore fiscal balance. Cooking gas and kerosene will continue to be subsidised.
“Petrol prices have been set free, the same is going to be done to diesel prices,” Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, asserted.
Briefing reporters aboard Air India One on the way to Frankfurt after participating in the G-20 summit in Toronto, Dr Singh said, “We have taken due care to ensure that the poorer sections are affected the least possible and (will) keep under regulation the prices of kerosene and LPG.”
Last Friday, the UPA government deregulated and increased petrol prices by Rs 3.50 per litre. Simultaneously, diesel and kerosene was made dearer by Rs 2 and Rs 3 per litre respectively and the cooking gas subsidy was reduced by Rs 35 per cylinder.
The NDA, and UPA allies like the Trinamul Congress and DMK, have opposed the increase.
“Petrol prices have been set free, the same is going to be done to diesel prices,” Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, asserted.
Briefing reporters aboard Air India One on the way to Frankfurt after participating in the G-20 summit in Toronto, Dr Singh said, “We have taken due care to ensure that the poorer sections are affected the least possible and (will) keep under regulation the prices of kerosene and LPG.”
Last Friday, the UPA government deregulated and increased petrol prices by Rs 3.50 per litre. Simultaneously, diesel and kerosene was made dearer by Rs 2 and Rs 3 per litre respectively and the cooking gas subsidy was reduced by Rs 35 per cylinder.
The NDA, and UPA allies like the Trinamul Congress and DMK, have opposed the increase.
26 CRPF men die in Maoist ambush
In the third such major attack in three months which took the paramilitary force by surprise, suspected Maoists killed 26 jawans of a CRPF road opening team and injured 15 others in an ambush at Dhorai in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district on Tuesday, the police said.
Rescue teams reached the spot late in the evening and the toll may go up, police said. A 66-member CRPF team was returning to camp when at least 90 Maoist insurgents attacked them at Jhargahati, a thickly forested area, 32 km from the district headquarters town of Narayanpur. The ambush was laid on the basis of prior information, police sources said. The Bastar IGP, Mr T.J. Longkumar, said: “The spot is surrounded by difficult terrain and forests. Reinforcements have been rushed from nearby areas. An IAF helicopter was used to transport the injured jawans.
Rescue teams reached the spot late in the evening and the toll may go up, police said. A 66-member CRPF team was returning to camp when at least 90 Maoist insurgents attacked them at Jhargahati, a thickly forested area, 32 km from the district headquarters town of Narayanpur. The ambush was laid on the basis of prior information, police sources said. The Bastar IGP, Mr T.J. Longkumar, said: “The spot is surrounded by difficult terrain and forests. Reinforcements have been rushed from nearby areas. An IAF helicopter was used to transport the injured jawans.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Accused: Girl’s mom involved
Adding a twist to the sensational Naga Vaishnavi murder case, Morla Srinu, one of the accused, alleged that the girl’s mother, Ms Narmada Devi, the Pedana MLA, Mr Jogi Ramesh, and a senior DCP were involved in the murder.
He was produced in court in Vijayawada on Monday amid tight security. After attending court, Srinu started making the allegations against Ms Narmada Devi and Mr Ramesh.
In February, Naga Vaishnavi, 10, was kidnapped and burnt in a furnace in Guntur. Her father Palagani Prabhakara Rao, a Vijayawada-based businessman, died of cardiac arrest after the incident.
Rao had two wives, Ms Venkateswaramma and Ms Narmada Devi, the mother of the victim. The murder was attributed to a quarrel for property. The killers’ plan to murder Vaishnavi’s brother did not come off.
The police arrested P. Venkatarao Goud, brother of Ms Venkateswaramma, and his aides, Morla Srinivas and Jagadish, for the murder. They were produced in court on Monday.
Ms Narmada Devi denied the allegations and asked that the culprits behind the murder of her daughter to be punished immediately.
Mr Ramesh denied the allegations and asked why Srinu would not have informed the police if his allegation was true.
He was produced in court in Vijayawada on Monday amid tight security. After attending court, Srinu started making the allegations against Ms Narmada Devi and Mr Ramesh.
In February, Naga Vaishnavi, 10, was kidnapped and burnt in a furnace in Guntur. Her father Palagani Prabhakara Rao, a Vijayawada-based businessman, died of cardiac arrest after the incident.
Rao had two wives, Ms Venkateswaramma and Ms Narmada Devi, the mother of the victim. The murder was attributed to a quarrel for property. The killers’ plan to murder Vaishnavi’s brother did not come off.
The police arrested P. Venkatarao Goud, brother of Ms Venkateswaramma, and his aides, Morla Srinivas and Jagadish, for the murder. They were produced in court on Monday.
Ms Narmada Devi denied the allegations and asked that the culprits behind the murder of her daughter to be punished immediately.
Mr Ramesh denied the allegations and asked why Srinu would not have informed the police if his allegation was true.
State halts recruitment to DSC posts
The state government has decided to halt the DSC teacher recruitment process scheduled on June 29 and 30 in the wake of AP Administrative Tribunal's directions on Monday to implement GO No. 28, which gives priority to D.Ed candidates over B.Ed candidates for appointment as secondary grade teachers.
However, the government has issued appointment letters to 3,000 teachers by then on Monday, the first day of counselling. It has decided to postpone the counselling scheduled for next two days to enable it to prepare a fresh merit list as per APAT orders.
Earlier, the AP Administrative Tribunal on Monday directed the state government to reserve 30 per cent of the vacancies for DEd candidates in the ongoing counselling of DSC 2008 candidates for selection to the post of Secondary Grade Teacher.
The tribunal was dealing with a petition filed by Mr V. Saidulu, an aspirant of the SGT post. The petitioner sought a direction to declare that he is entitled to be selected and appointed to the post of SGT. He urged the court to declare the action of the respondents in not reserving 30 per cent in SGT posts in accordance with the Rule 7 of GO Ms No 28, issued on January 29, 2009, as illegal.
Mr A. Satya Prasad, additional advocate general, told the tribunal that any amendment brought after the notification will not have any retrospective affect.
However, the government has issued appointment letters to 3,000 teachers by then on Monday, the first day of counselling. It has decided to postpone the counselling scheduled for next two days to enable it to prepare a fresh merit list as per APAT orders.
Earlier, the AP Administrative Tribunal on Monday directed the state government to reserve 30 per cent of the vacancies for DEd candidates in the ongoing counselling of DSC 2008 candidates for selection to the post of Secondary Grade Teacher.
The tribunal was dealing with a petition filed by Mr V. Saidulu, an aspirant of the SGT post. The petitioner sought a direction to declare that he is entitled to be selected and appointed to the post of SGT. He urged the court to declare the action of the respondents in not reserving 30 per cent in SGT posts in accordance with the Rule 7 of GO Ms No 28, issued on January 29, 2009, as illegal.
Mr A. Satya Prasad, additional advocate general, told the tribunal that any amendment brought after the notification will not have any retrospective affect.
Sonia lays foundation of Rohtang tunnel near Manali
UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, who is also heading the National Advisory Council, on Monday laid the foundation of the 8.8-km-long Rohtang tunnel at Dhundi near the famous tourist resort of Manali.
While addressing a public gathering at Solang Nallah later, Ms. Gandhi said the idea of the tunnel was conceived by late Rajiv Gandhi and even the former Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, during his regime, inaugurated the approach road to the tunnel site from the South Portal.
Praising the efforts of Border Roads Organisation in constructing the tunnel, she said the tunnel would provide all-weather connectivity for the civilians and armed forces personnel and an alternative link to the residents living on the border areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu Kashmir.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, Defence Minister A. K. Antony, Minister of State for Defence M.M. Pallam Raju, Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh and Leader of the Opposition in the Himachal Assembly, Vidya Stokes, were also present on the occasion.
The idea of constructing a tunnel beneath the Rohtang Pass at 13,000 feet was envisaged in 1983 and its construction received an impetus after the Kargil conflict.
It was to be made as an all-weather alternative strategic route to Ladakh from Manali in Himachal Pradesh.
Avalanche protection
On May 26, 2002, after the detailed feasibility study in 1987, Mr. Vajpayee laid the foundation of the access road to the tunnel costing Rs.180 crore and the access road to south portal tunnel site was completed in 2005.
About 18 avalanche protection structures have been erected on it.
By 2015
The Cabinet Committee on Security cleared the tunnel project in September 2009 at a cost of about Rs.1,495 crore.
The tunnelling would be completed in 2015 and that would reduce the distance between Manali and Keylong by at least 48 km, said the BRO sources.
High altitude
More than six to seven feet of snow is reported from the high altitude (13,044 ft.) Rohtang Pass during winter and it remains closed for six to eight months.
Another tunnel
The BRO is also studying the feasibility of constructing a tunnel beneath the Shinkula Pass (15,920 ft.).
It has to conduct a feasibility study for construction of a tunnel beneath this pass that would reduce the present distance of 470 km between Manali and Leh by 100 km, they said.
While addressing a public gathering at Solang Nallah later, Ms. Gandhi said the idea of the tunnel was conceived by late Rajiv Gandhi and even the former Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, during his regime, inaugurated the approach road to the tunnel site from the South Portal.
Praising the efforts of Border Roads Organisation in constructing the tunnel, she said the tunnel would provide all-weather connectivity for the civilians and armed forces personnel and an alternative link to the residents living on the border areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu Kashmir.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, Defence Minister A. K. Antony, Minister of State for Defence M.M. Pallam Raju, Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh and Leader of the Opposition in the Himachal Assembly, Vidya Stokes, were also present on the occasion.
The idea of constructing a tunnel beneath the Rohtang Pass at 13,000 feet was envisaged in 1983 and its construction received an impetus after the Kargil conflict.
It was to be made as an all-weather alternative strategic route to Ladakh from Manali in Himachal Pradesh.
Avalanche protection
On May 26, 2002, after the detailed feasibility study in 1987, Mr. Vajpayee laid the foundation of the access road to the tunnel costing Rs.180 crore and the access road to south portal tunnel site was completed in 2005.
About 18 avalanche protection structures have been erected on it.
By 2015
The Cabinet Committee on Security cleared the tunnel project in September 2009 at a cost of about Rs.1,495 crore.
The tunnelling would be completed in 2015 and that would reduce the distance between Manali and Keylong by at least 48 km, said the BRO sources.
High altitude
More than six to seven feet of snow is reported from the high altitude (13,044 ft.) Rohtang Pass during winter and it remains closed for six to eight months.
Another tunnel
The BRO is also studying the feasibility of constructing a tunnel beneath the Shinkula Pass (15,920 ft.).
It has to conduct a feasibility study for construction of a tunnel beneath this pass that would reduce the present distance of 470 km between Manali and Leh by 100 km, they said.
IIM-A to establish city unit
IIM-Ahmedabad, one of the leading B-schools of the country, has decided to set up a full-fledged campus in city. The decision was taken after the institute’s strategic committee gave its approval during its meeting held on June 24.
It was former chief minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, who had invited the IIMA to the city and had also offered 150 acres of land and Rs 100 crore interest-free loan to the institute.
After Mr K. Rosaiah took over, he too wrote to Dr Vijaypat Singhania, chairman, Board of Governors, and reiterated the government’s support for setting up a “seamless campus”. He said that the campus would give a decisive advantage to management students who would get exposure to new sectors as the city hosts the vibrant IT hub, the Biotech Valley and the pharma industry. Sources said that institute authorities have told the state officials about the decision.
It was former chief minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, who had invited the IIMA to the city and had also offered 150 acres of land and Rs 100 crore interest-free loan to the institute.
After Mr K. Rosaiah took over, he too wrote to Dr Vijaypat Singhania, chairman, Board of Governors, and reiterated the government’s support for setting up a “seamless campus”. He said that the campus would give a decisive advantage to management students who would get exposure to new sectors as the city hosts the vibrant IT hub, the Biotech Valley and the pharma industry. Sources said that institute authorities have told the state officials about the decision.
US seeks more info from China on its nuke deal with Pak
The US has sought more information from China on its agreement to supply two nuclear reactors to Pakistan, saying the deal would need an agreement of the Nuclear Suppliers Group. "We as a first step are looking for more information from China as to what it is potentially proposing," State Department spokesman, Mr P.J. Crowley, told reporters at his daily press briefing. He was responding to a question on last week's meeting of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) in New Zealand, wherein China informed the group about its decision to supply two additional nuclear power plants to Pakistan. "We did raise the issue during last week's Nuclear Suppliers Group. We continue to seek information from China regarding its future plans," Crowley said. He said there was no unanimous consensus at the meeting of the NSG, which operates by consensus. "We have a view that this initiative as it goes forward would need the agreement of the Nuclear Suppliers Group," Mr Crowley said.
Curfew imposed in Kashmir's Sopore, Baramulla
Curfew was imposed in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore and Baramulla towns and vehicular traffic was restricted in old city areas of summer capital Srinagar on Tuesday, a day after two youths were killed in widespread violence.
Additional security men have been deployed in Sopore and Baramulla towns to restore order there, police said.
Vehicular and pedestrian movement was not allowed in five police station areas of Khanyar, Rainawari, Nowhatta, M.R. Gunj and Safa Kadal to tackle separatist violence here.
Traffic intersections in the old city areas were also blocked with coils of razor fitted wire.
"Preventive restrictions are in force in old city areas to protect civilian life and property from anti-social elements," a senior police officer told IANS.
"Nobody will be allowed to create a law and order situation that would endanger civilian life and property. Parents have been advised to remain vigilant against miscreants who use their wards to generate violence," the police officer said. Reports from Baramulla and Sopore towns indicate that curfew was being strictly enforced there. Separatist leaders of both the hardline and the moderate Hurriyat groups have called for a two-day shutdown across the Valley to protest security force excesses. In uptown areas of Srinagar city, shops, public transport, banks, educational institutions remained closed as tension was palpable here because of Monday's incidents of violence. Tajamul Ahmad Bhat, 17, and Tauqeer Ahmad Rather, 15, were killed during mob violence in Baramulla district on Monday.
Additional security men have been deployed in Sopore and Baramulla towns to restore order there, police said.
Vehicular and pedestrian movement was not allowed in five police station areas of Khanyar, Rainawari, Nowhatta, M.R. Gunj and Safa Kadal to tackle separatist violence here.
Traffic intersections in the old city areas were also blocked with coils of razor fitted wire.
"Preventive restrictions are in force in old city areas to protect civilian life and property from anti-social elements," a senior police officer told IANS.
"Nobody will be allowed to create a law and order situation that would endanger civilian life and property. Parents have been advised to remain vigilant against miscreants who use their wards to generate violence," the police officer said. Reports from Baramulla and Sopore towns indicate that curfew was being strictly enforced there. Separatist leaders of both the hardline and the moderate Hurriyat groups have called for a two-day shutdown across the Valley to protest security force excesses. In uptown areas of Srinagar city, shops, public transport, banks, educational institutions remained closed as tension was palpable here because of Monday's incidents of violence. Tajamul Ahmad Bhat, 17, and Tauqeer Ahmad Rather, 15, were killed during mob violence in Baramulla district on Monday.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Central Health Council meeting on July 9
Meet likely to endorse proposed National Council for Human Resources in Health
Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry is likely to convene a meeting on July 9 of the Central Council of Health and Family Welfare where Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad is expected to seek endorsement of the proposed National Council for Human Resources in Health to retain medical education as well as regulation of professional practice in health sector.
The Central Health Council that is represented by all State Health Ministers, health-related statutory bodies and research institutions is being convened just after the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) — the highest advisory body to the Centre and States on education — gave its go-ahead to the draft National Commission on Higher Education and Research (NCHER) Bill proposed by a task force constituted by the Ministry of Human Resource Development.
Overarching commission
The draft seeks to establish an overarching NCHER subsuming all education-related functions of all statutory councils, including the Medical Council of India, Dental Council of India, the Nursing Council and other institutions related to medical education. The draft NCHER Bill proposes that all regulation in professional practice in medical and allied field of health sector should be in the domain of the proposed National Council for Human Resources in Health.
Turf war
While the turf war over medical education has been on for a while now, the Prime Minister's Office has written to senior officers of both the Ministries that medical education would remain with the Health and Family Welfare Ministry. On the other hand, the Union Human Resource Development Ministry has been saying that the NCHER was based on the lines of the Yashpal Committee and the National Knowledge Commission recommendations.
Sibal's stand
Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal has recently taken the stand that the draft Bill was the “property” of the task force and any final decision would be taken by the government after inter-ministerial consultations. Meanwhile, the Health Ministry has also started State consultations on the proposed National Council on Human Resource for Health.
President Pratibha Patil in her joint address to Parliament last year had announced setting up of the two councils but somewhere down the line it was realised that the two had some overlapping areas.
Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry is likely to convene a meeting on July 9 of the Central Council of Health and Family Welfare where Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad is expected to seek endorsement of the proposed National Council for Human Resources in Health to retain medical education as well as regulation of professional practice in health sector.
The Central Health Council that is represented by all State Health Ministers, health-related statutory bodies and research institutions is being convened just after the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) — the highest advisory body to the Centre and States on education — gave its go-ahead to the draft National Commission on Higher Education and Research (NCHER) Bill proposed by a task force constituted by the Ministry of Human Resource Development.
Overarching commission
The draft seeks to establish an overarching NCHER subsuming all education-related functions of all statutory councils, including the Medical Council of India, Dental Council of India, the Nursing Council and other institutions related to medical education. The draft NCHER Bill proposes that all regulation in professional practice in medical and allied field of health sector should be in the domain of the proposed National Council for Human Resources in Health.
Turf war
While the turf war over medical education has been on for a while now, the Prime Minister's Office has written to senior officers of both the Ministries that medical education would remain with the Health and Family Welfare Ministry. On the other hand, the Union Human Resource Development Ministry has been saying that the NCHER was based on the lines of the Yashpal Committee and the National Knowledge Commission recommendations.
Sibal's stand
Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal has recently taken the stand that the draft Bill was the “property” of the task force and any final decision would be taken by the government after inter-ministerial consultations. Meanwhile, the Health Ministry has also started State consultations on the proposed National Council on Human Resource for Health.
President Pratibha Patil in her joint address to Parliament last year had announced setting up of the two councils but somewhere down the line it was realised that the two had some overlapping areas.
Information access portal to bring youth, government closer
A comprehensive information access portal that will bridge the gap between Indian youth and the government machinery will be developed soon, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Pratik Patil said on Sunday.
“Youth have the potential to initiate change, but they are often disconnected from systems that have the power to bring into effect those changes,” Mr. Patil said, speaking to The Hindu while heading a 100-member youth delegation to China that returned on Sunday.
The Minister said “total integrated software” would be developed within a year and that the portal would serve as a youth database.
Any person in the 18-35 age-group will be able to sign up to the service by submitting a set of details to establish proof of identity. Email alerts about all government schemes, scholarships and programmes that fit the profile will be automatically generated.
The portal, which will be available in all official Indian languages, will also host a platform through which youth can ask queries and send suggestions. They will be forwarded to the relevant Ministry and follow-up action will be taken, Mr. Patil said.
He added that discussions were on with Indian industry to share employment-related details of youth who register on the site to address the “manpower-shortage and unemployment gap.”
Accompanying delegates from various fields of excellence — including a number of national youth award winners — on the second leg of a 10-day youth exchange visit to China, Mr. Patil called for greater cooperation between the two countries in fields such as higher education and information technology.
At an interactive session between Indian and Chinese youth at the Sichuan International Studies University on Saturday, Li Keyong, president of the University, said: “When most people think of China, it is Shanghai and Beijing that comes to their mind. A greater understanding of the complexities of the hinterland of China is required, and youth delegations serve as a very good platform.”
The delegates hopped from Shanghai to Hefei and finally to Chongqing and visited sites such as the Shanghai World Expo and the world heritage rock carvings site at Dazu.
To mark the 60th year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, a ‘Festival of India' will be organised in China shortly, beginning with an Indian film festival in Chongqing in the second week of July.
“Youth have the potential to initiate change, but they are often disconnected from systems that have the power to bring into effect those changes,” Mr. Patil said, speaking to The Hindu while heading a 100-member youth delegation to China that returned on Sunday.
The Minister said “total integrated software” would be developed within a year and that the portal would serve as a youth database.
Any person in the 18-35 age-group will be able to sign up to the service by submitting a set of details to establish proof of identity. Email alerts about all government schemes, scholarships and programmes that fit the profile will be automatically generated.
The portal, which will be available in all official Indian languages, will also host a platform through which youth can ask queries and send suggestions. They will be forwarded to the relevant Ministry and follow-up action will be taken, Mr. Patil said.
He added that discussions were on with Indian industry to share employment-related details of youth who register on the site to address the “manpower-shortage and unemployment gap.”
Accompanying delegates from various fields of excellence — including a number of national youth award winners — on the second leg of a 10-day youth exchange visit to China, Mr. Patil called for greater cooperation between the two countries in fields such as higher education and information technology.
At an interactive session between Indian and Chinese youth at the Sichuan International Studies University on Saturday, Li Keyong, president of the University, said: “When most people think of China, it is Shanghai and Beijing that comes to their mind. A greater understanding of the complexities of the hinterland of China is required, and youth delegations serve as a very good platform.”
The delegates hopped from Shanghai to Hefei and finally to Chongqing and visited sites such as the Shanghai World Expo and the world heritage rock carvings site at Dazu.
To mark the 60th year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, a ‘Festival of India' will be organised in China shortly, beginning with an Indian film festival in Chongqing in the second week of July.
