New Delhi, (India) March 28, 2012 - Over 70 per cent of people in the age group of 30-69 have fallen prey to cancer in India in 2010, with tobacco-related and cervical cancers being the leading cause of deaths, according to a new study.
According to the study published in 'The Lancet' today, there were 556,400 cancer deaths across India in 2010, of which 71 per cent (3,95,000) deaths occurred in people aged between 30-69 years (2,00,100 men and 1,95,300 women).
At nearly 23 per cent, oral cancer caused the most deaths in men, followed by stomach cancer (12.6 per cent) and lung cancer (11.4 per cent), while cervical cancer was the leading cause (17 per cent) of death in women followed by breast cancer (10.2 per cent).
The authors, who analysed over 1,22,400 deaths in 6,671 small areas over a period of three years, found that 42 per cent male and 183 per cent female died due to tobacco-related cancers in 2010.
Lead study author Professor Prahbat Jha of the Centre for Global Health Research at the University of Toronto in Canada said, ÒCancer appears to be a disease of the young in India as it kills over 70 per cent of people in middle age...cancer deaths are two times higher in the least educated than the most educated and the differences were similar between urban and rural areas.Ó ÒMost cancer deaths were tobacco-related and our study provides a road-map for a strong anti-tobacco policy by the government of India and higher taxes on tobacco can be an effective measure, which studies have shown to be the single most effective measure to reduce smoking,Ó he said.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
We are part of the solution, not the problem: Huawei
New Delhi, (India) March 28, 2012 - Allaying concerns of Indian authorities on security issues related to foreign telecom equipment makers, Chinese company Huawei today said it is a part of the solution and not the problem.
ÒWe do notice these concerns and we believe that from technology, value addition and partnership point of views, we are part of the solution and not the problem,Ó Huawei India Senior Vice President Yao Weimin told reporters.
In 2010, the Home Ministry reportedly refused to clear telecom equipment contracts allotted to Chinese companies on security concerns. Last year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also expressed concern on Chinese telecom equipment imported in large quantities.
Recently, Australia had blocked Huawei from tendering for a prestigious USD 38 billion nation-wide broadband contract due to cyber attacks originating from China.
Referring to such instances, Weimin said it is a legitimate concern by any government or user to address the security issues and to develop capacities and solutions.
ÒIt is a legitimate concern by any government or user to address this security issue to jointly develop capacities and solutions especially from security point of view. That is what we mean when we say we are part of the solution,Ó Weimin said.
Huawei has been working closely with customers to develop these kinds of solutions, he added.
Despite the uncertainties in the Indian telecom sector after the Supreme Court (SC) quashed 122 2G licences, Huawei said it remains committed to the country.
ÒWe notice that India has been experiencing challenging times. We are evaluating this development and we hope that the issues will be resolved and India will continue to grow in a healthy and sustainable development,Ó he said.
Huawei counts most telecom operators in the country among its clients, including Uninor and Sistema Shyam, whose licences were also cancelled as part of the SC judgement.
Huawei said it has invested more than USD 150 million in India for an R&D centre at Bangalore and a manufacturing facility at Chennai.
ÒWe are confident in investing in India in the long run,Ó he added.
ÒWe do notice these concerns and we believe that from technology, value addition and partnership point of views, we are part of the solution and not the problem,Ó Huawei India Senior Vice President Yao Weimin told reporters.
In 2010, the Home Ministry reportedly refused to clear telecom equipment contracts allotted to Chinese companies on security concerns. Last year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also expressed concern on Chinese telecom equipment imported in large quantities.
Recently, Australia had blocked Huawei from tendering for a prestigious USD 38 billion nation-wide broadband contract due to cyber attacks originating from China.
Referring to such instances, Weimin said it is a legitimate concern by any government or user to address the security issues and to develop capacities and solutions.
ÒIt is a legitimate concern by any government or user to address this security issue to jointly develop capacities and solutions especially from security point of view. That is what we mean when we say we are part of the solution,Ó Weimin said.
Huawei has been working closely with customers to develop these kinds of solutions, he added.
Despite the uncertainties in the Indian telecom sector after the Supreme Court (SC) quashed 122 2G licences, Huawei said it remains committed to the country.
ÒWe notice that India has been experiencing challenging times. We are evaluating this development and we hope that the issues will be resolved and India will continue to grow in a healthy and sustainable development,Ó he said.
Huawei counts most telecom operators in the country among its clients, including Uninor and Sistema Shyam, whose licences were also cancelled as part of the SC judgement.
Huawei said it has invested more than USD 150 million in India for an R&D centre at Bangalore and a manufacturing facility at Chennai.
ÒWe are confident in investing in India in the long run,Ó he added.
Monday, March 26, 2012
83-year-old sues Apple after breaking nose on its glass door
New York, March 26,2012 - An 83-year-old woman in the US has reportedly sued Apple for USD one million after she failed to see the glass door at one of the technology giant's stores and smashed her face.
The incident dates back to December 13 last year when Evelyn Paswall, a former Manhattan fur-company vice-president, went to Apple's Manhasset store to return an iPhone.
Approaching the store, she didn't realise she was heading straight for a wall of glass. She smashed her face against it, breaking her nose, according to her suit filed in US Eastern District Federal Court.
In her suit, Paswall claims that the glass doors at the front of Apple Stores pose serious risk to the elderly, 'The New York Post' reported.
She argues that the California-based company should have put marks on the glass so that older people could spot before they come face-to-face with disaster. ÒThe defendant was negligent in allowing a clear, see-through glass wall and/or door to exist without proper warning,Ó her suit claims.
Paswall's attorney Derek T Smith told the newspaper: ÒApple wants to be cool and modern and have the type of architecture that would appeal to the tech crowd, but on the other hand, they have to appreciate the danger that this high-tech modern architecture poses to some people.Ó He added: ÒThe stereotypical Apple customer is a Gen-Y person or a teenager or a college student, but they have to realize that the elderly generation are their customers, too.Ó Apple officials and workers at the Manhasset store have declined to comment.
Positive outlook for India's job markets: Survey
New Delhi, (India), March 26,2012 - The next three months are likely to offer solid opportunities for job seekers as 39 per cent of Indian employers are expected to increase their headcount, says a survey.
According to the survey by recruitment tendering platform MyHiringClub.com, the country's net employment outlook -- an indicator of recruitment intentions -- stood at a healthy 39 per cent, reflecting solid opportunities for job seekers in the upcoming quarter.
ÒJob seekers will be going to get more opportunities as our study shows the India's employment markets will experience positive hiring activity compared to Q1 (first quarter), FY'12. The good news is that many markets appear to be heading in the right direction,Ó MyHiringClub.com CEO Rajesh Kumar said.
On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the outlook has improved by a moderate 8 percentage points, and on a year-on-year basis it has seen an improvement by 6 percentage points, the survey said.
Region wise, employers in all four regions predict a strong employment market in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, with South being the most optimistic where the net employment outlook stood at 30 per cent, followed by the North (26 per cent), West (23 per cent) and East (21 per cent).
Hiring intentions have strengthened in all four regions both in terms of year-on-year as well as quarter-on-quarter basis, the study said.
A sector-wise comparison shows that, employers in all nine industry sectors expect headcount to grow during the first quarter of FY'13. The most optimistic projections are reported in the IT & ITeS sector, with a strong net employment outlook of 21 per cent.
FMCG is the second-most optimistic sector with a net employment outlook of 19 per cent, followed by infrastructure (18 per cent), retail (18 per cent), banking & financial services (16 per cent), automobile & manufacturing (14 per cent), telecom (11 per cent), real estate (7 per cent) & business services (5 per cent).
ÒIT & ITeS sector started leading in hiring plans and activities. Even in the current quarter this sector is witnessing maximum numbers of hiring. Also Banking & Financial Services' hiring activity improved and expecting the same trend will continue in first quarter of the coming financial year,Ó Kumar added.
According to the survey by recruitment tendering platform MyHiringClub.com, the country's net employment outlook -- an indicator of recruitment intentions -- stood at a healthy 39 per cent, reflecting solid opportunities for job seekers in the upcoming quarter.
ÒJob seekers will be going to get more opportunities as our study shows the India's employment markets will experience positive hiring activity compared to Q1 (first quarter), FY'12. The good news is that many markets appear to be heading in the right direction,Ó MyHiringClub.com CEO Rajesh Kumar said.
On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the outlook has improved by a moderate 8 percentage points, and on a year-on-year basis it has seen an improvement by 6 percentage points, the survey said.
Region wise, employers in all four regions predict a strong employment market in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, with South being the most optimistic where the net employment outlook stood at 30 per cent, followed by the North (26 per cent), West (23 per cent) and East (21 per cent).
Hiring intentions have strengthened in all four regions both in terms of year-on-year as well as quarter-on-quarter basis, the study said.
A sector-wise comparison shows that, employers in all nine industry sectors expect headcount to grow during the first quarter of FY'13. The most optimistic projections are reported in the IT & ITeS sector, with a strong net employment outlook of 21 per cent.
FMCG is the second-most optimistic sector with a net employment outlook of 19 per cent, followed by infrastructure (18 per cent), retail (18 per cent), banking & financial services (16 per cent), automobile & manufacturing (14 per cent), telecom (11 per cent), real estate (7 per cent) & business services (5 per cent).
ÒIT & ITeS sector started leading in hiring plans and activities. Even in the current quarter this sector is witnessing maximum numbers of hiring. Also Banking & Financial Services' hiring activity improved and expecting the same trend will continue in first quarter of the coming financial year,Ó Kumar added.
China's Huawei barred from major Australian broadband deal
Melbourne, Mar 26, 2012 - In a setback to Chinese telecom giant Huawei, Australia has blocked it from tendering for a prestigious USD 38 billion nation-wide broadband contract due to cyber attacks originating from China.
Defending the move, Prime Minister Julia Gillard today said the decision to not allow Huawei to take part in tenders for the National Broadband Network (NBN) project was ÒprudentÓ.
A spokesman for Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said the NBN was the Òbackbone of Australia's information infrastructureÓ and as such the government had a responsibility Òto do our utmost to protect its integrity and that of the information carried on itÓ.
The USD 38 billion project aims to connect almost every Australian home to a very high speed Internet connection.
The Australian Financial Review said in a report that Huawei was seeking to secure a supply contract worth up to USD 1.04 billion with NBN, but has been blocked by the Attorney- General's department based on advice from Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
Gillard told reporters in Seoul, where she is attending nuclear security talks with other world leaders, that the NBN is a crucial national infrastructure project.
ÒYou would expect, as a government, we would make all of the prudent decisions to make sure that that infrastructure project does what we want it to do, and we've taken one of those decisions,Ó she said, when asked about the Huawei decision.
One of the reasons for the ban on Huawei could be that the company's founder Ren Zhengfei was in the Chinese People's Liberation Army until 1984.
Huawei, considered to be the world's No. 2 telecommunications equipment maker, says while the decision is a setback, it will continue to work with all of Australia's major telecommunications operators and remains hopeful of playing a role in the NBN, Australia's AAP news agency reported.
Huawei corporate affairs director Jeremy Mitchell said despite the prime minister's comments he believed it was a temporary hurdle for the company.
ÒI think the best way to do this is to work together,Ó Mitchell told ABC Television after Gillard's comments.
The ban on Huawei underlines global concern about Beijing's cyber warfare efforts after a series of hacking attempts on Western companies were traced to China.
Defending the move, Prime Minister Julia Gillard today said the decision to not allow Huawei to take part in tenders for the National Broadband Network (NBN) project was ÒprudentÓ.
A spokesman for Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said the NBN was the Òbackbone of Australia's information infrastructureÓ and as such the government had a responsibility Òto do our utmost to protect its integrity and that of the information carried on itÓ.
The USD 38 billion project aims to connect almost every Australian home to a very high speed Internet connection.
The Australian Financial Review said in a report that Huawei was seeking to secure a supply contract worth up to USD 1.04 billion with NBN, but has been blocked by the Attorney- General's department based on advice from Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).
Gillard told reporters in Seoul, where she is attending nuclear security talks with other world leaders, that the NBN is a crucial national infrastructure project.
ÒYou would expect, as a government, we would make all of the prudent decisions to make sure that that infrastructure project does what we want it to do, and we've taken one of those decisions,Ó she said, when asked about the Huawei decision.
One of the reasons for the ban on Huawei could be that the company's founder Ren Zhengfei was in the Chinese People's Liberation Army until 1984.
Huawei, considered to be the world's No. 2 telecommunications equipment maker, says while the decision is a setback, it will continue to work with all of Australia's major telecommunications operators and remains hopeful of playing a role in the NBN, Australia's AAP news agency reported.
Huawei corporate affairs director Jeremy Mitchell said despite the prime minister's comments he believed it was a temporary hurdle for the company.
ÒI think the best way to do this is to work together,Ó Mitchell told ABC Television after Gillard's comments.
The ban on Huawei underlines global concern about Beijing's cyber warfare efforts after a series of hacking attempts on Western companies were traced to China.
Tata Capital to set up pvt investment banking biz in Singapore
Singapore, March 26, 2012 - Tata Capital today said it will set up a private investment banking business in Singapore in two years.
ÒLicencing process is to be started soon and the business will be in operation in two years,Ó Tata Capital Managing Director and Chief Executive Praveen P Kadle said here.
He said the broad plan would be to establish a strong private equity and fund management as well as wealth management and securities brokerages.
ÒThis will be our first private banking. In two years, this will surely happen,Ó Kadle said after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) to help Indian companies to internationalise their businesses through Singapore.
Tata Capital Pte Ltd (TPCL) has been operating in Singapore since 2008.
Under the MoU, TPCL and EDB would leverage on each other's strengths to reach out to companies in various countries, specifically India, to explore business opportunities in Singapore, he said.
TCPL would facilitate collaboration and information exchange between Indian companies and EDB, and offer relevant strategic advice and financial solutions.
Kadle said: ÒTata Capital, with its strong corporate customer base and wide range of financial advisory services, is well positioned to help these (Indian) companies with their international ambitions.
ÒHe said Tata Capital and EDB would help Indian companies leverage Singapore's regional and international influence and outreach and in return contribute to Singapore's long-term prosperity.
The Indian companies would be able to tap international expertise, both in financial sector and investments, in regional resources from networking in Singapore's financial hub of 7,000 multi-national corporations, which includes a strong presence of Indonesian and Australia resource-owned groups, said EDB Director Lee Eng Keat.
He said Indian companies formed the largest business community in Singapore with over 5,000 companies operating out of the city state into the regional business and trading environment.
ÒThese companies have done well,Ó said Lee, adding more companies to take advantage of the Tata-EDB MoU offer to set up regional and international operations in the city state.
ÒIn the last four-and-a-half years, Tata Capital has built a relatively strong focus on financial services areas.
Our loan book is close to US$4.2 billion,Ó Kadle said.
ÒLicencing process is to be started soon and the business will be in operation in two years,Ó Tata Capital Managing Director and Chief Executive Praveen P Kadle said here.
He said the broad plan would be to establish a strong private equity and fund management as well as wealth management and securities brokerages.
ÒThis will be our first private banking. In two years, this will surely happen,Ó Kadle said after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) to help Indian companies to internationalise their businesses through Singapore.
Tata Capital Pte Ltd (TPCL) has been operating in Singapore since 2008.
Under the MoU, TPCL and EDB would leverage on each other's strengths to reach out to companies in various countries, specifically India, to explore business opportunities in Singapore, he said.
TCPL would facilitate collaboration and information exchange between Indian companies and EDB, and offer relevant strategic advice and financial solutions.
Kadle said: ÒTata Capital, with its strong corporate customer base and wide range of financial advisory services, is well positioned to help these (Indian) companies with their international ambitions.
ÒHe said Tata Capital and EDB would help Indian companies leverage Singapore's regional and international influence and outreach and in return contribute to Singapore's long-term prosperity.
The Indian companies would be able to tap international expertise, both in financial sector and investments, in regional resources from networking in Singapore's financial hub of 7,000 multi-national corporations, which includes a strong presence of Indonesian and Australia resource-owned groups, said EDB Director Lee Eng Keat.
He said Indian companies formed the largest business community in Singapore with over 5,000 companies operating out of the city state into the regional business and trading environment.
ÒThese companies have done well,Ó said Lee, adding more companies to take advantage of the Tata-EDB MoU offer to set up regional and international operations in the city state.
ÒIn the last four-and-a-half years, Tata Capital has built a relatively strong focus on financial services areas.
Our loan book is close to US$4.2 billion,Ó Kadle said.
Oil and gas industry encourages Canada-Asia free trade talks
CALGARY, March 25, 2012 - Canada's upstream oil and natural gas
industry encourages federal initiatives to negotiate trade-related
agreements with Asian countries given their strong and growing need for
oil and natural gas and growing importance in global energy markets.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper, on his second visit to the region this year, announced the launch of free trade talks with Japan. The federal government is already pursuing trade agreements with Thailand and South Korea.
"Demand for Canadian products like crude oil and natural gas is strong in Asia and growing," said CAPP President Dave Collyer. "Oil and natural gas exports, primarily to the United States, currently contribute some $80 billion to the Canadian economy annually. Diversifying markets for Canadian oil and natural gas products is vital to ensuring Canada continues to grow its oil and gas production and receives full value for its natural resources."
In addition to developing new export markets, Canada's oil and gas industry continues to explore cost-competitive ways of providing Canadian crude oil and natural gas to domestic markets and the United States, reducing North American dependence on foreign imports.
According to the International Energy Agency, the dynamics of energy markets will be determined more and more by Asian economies, especially China. Over the next 25 years, China alone accounts for more than 30 per cent of the projected growth in global energy demand, consolidating its position as the world's largest energy consumer.
"While developing new markets for Canadian trade is very important, our industry understands that increasing domestic oil and natural gas production depends on continuing environmental and social performance improvement and delivering tangible economic benefits for all Canadians," said Collyer.
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) represents companies, large and small, that explore for, develop and produce natural gas and crude oil throughout Canada. CAPP's member companies produce more than 90 per cent of Canada's natural gas and crude oil. CAPP's associate members provide a wide range of services that support the upstream crude oil and natural gas industry. Together CAPP's members and associate members are an important part of a national industry with revenues of about $100 billion-a-year. CAPP's mission is to enhance the economic sustainability of the Canadian upstream petroleum industry in a safe and environmentally and socially responsible manner, through constructive engagement and communication with governments, the public and stakeholders in the communities in which we operate.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper, on his second visit to the region this year, announced the launch of free trade talks with Japan. The federal government is already pursuing trade agreements with Thailand and South Korea.
"Demand for Canadian products like crude oil and natural gas is strong in Asia and growing," said CAPP President Dave Collyer. "Oil and natural gas exports, primarily to the United States, currently contribute some $80 billion to the Canadian economy annually. Diversifying markets for Canadian oil and natural gas products is vital to ensuring Canada continues to grow its oil and gas production and receives full value for its natural resources."
In addition to developing new export markets, Canada's oil and gas industry continues to explore cost-competitive ways of providing Canadian crude oil and natural gas to domestic markets and the United States, reducing North American dependence on foreign imports.
According to the International Energy Agency, the dynamics of energy markets will be determined more and more by Asian economies, especially China. Over the next 25 years, China alone accounts for more than 30 per cent of the projected growth in global energy demand, consolidating its position as the world's largest energy consumer.
"While developing new markets for Canadian trade is very important, our industry understands that increasing domestic oil and natural gas production depends on continuing environmental and social performance improvement and delivering tangible economic benefits for all Canadians," said Collyer.
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) represents companies, large and small, that explore for, develop and produce natural gas and crude oil throughout Canada. CAPP's member companies produce more than 90 per cent of Canada's natural gas and crude oil. CAPP's associate members provide a wide range of services that support the upstream crude oil and natural gas industry. Together CAPP's members and associate members are an important part of a national industry with revenues of about $100 billion-a-year. CAPP's mission is to enhance the economic sustainability of the Canadian upstream petroleum industry in a safe and environmentally and socially responsible manner, through constructive engagement and communication with governments, the public and stakeholders in the communities in which we operate.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
I followed my brothers into acting: Liam Hemsworth
New Delhi, (India), March 24, 2012 - Hollywood actor Liam Hemsworth, who got his first big break with much anticipated film ÒHunger GamesÓ, says acting was never his first choice and he followed his brothers into acting.
The 22-year-old says his elder brothers Luke and Chris, who have a well off career in Hollywood, were the main reason he took up acting.
ÒI used to like drama and also acted in a few skits and plays. However as time passed by my interest in acting developed even more and I followed my brothers into acting,Ó Liam said.
The actor also says the comparisons drawn between him and his brothers don't bother him and he takes it as an opportunity to learn from them.
ÒOne often seem to compare when ones siblings are of the same profession but for me it's a chance to learn as I am the youngest so it gives me that much more to learn from Chris & Luke,Ó he added.
Liam, who is paired opposite actress Jennifer Lawrence in the film ÒHunger GamesÓ, says although he was nervous doing the stunts, he enjoyed the experience. The film released in India yesterday by Top Entertainment.
ÒI think the others experienced a little more than I did.
I enjoyed doing the stunts. When I was there, for the most part, it was ridiculously hot. We were shooting in a beautiful place, out in the woods in Ashville, these great mountains.
But when I was there it was just really hot. However it was a great experience,Ó he added.
Based on the novel of the same name by Suzanne Collins, the film also stars Josh Hutcherson, Elizabeth Banks and Woody Harrelson.
The 22-year-old says his elder brothers Luke and Chris, who have a well off career in Hollywood, were the main reason he took up acting.
ÒI used to like drama and also acted in a few skits and plays. However as time passed by my interest in acting developed even more and I followed my brothers into acting,Ó Liam said.
The actor also says the comparisons drawn between him and his brothers don't bother him and he takes it as an opportunity to learn from them.
ÒOne often seem to compare when ones siblings are of the same profession but for me it's a chance to learn as I am the youngest so it gives me that much more to learn from Chris & Luke,Ó he added.
Liam, who is paired opposite actress Jennifer Lawrence in the film ÒHunger GamesÓ, says although he was nervous doing the stunts, he enjoyed the experience. The film released in India yesterday by Top Entertainment.
ÒI think the others experienced a little more than I did.
I enjoyed doing the stunts. When I was there, for the most part, it was ridiculously hot. We were shooting in a beautiful place, out in the woods in Ashville, these great mountains.
But when I was there it was just really hot. However it was a great experience,Ó he added.
Based on the novel of the same name by Suzanne Collins, the film also stars Josh Hutcherson, Elizabeth Banks and Woody Harrelson.
Bipartisan Political Leaders Urge Removal of MEK from Terrorist List
WASHINGTON, March, 24, 2012 - With a federal appeals court deadline looming
for the U.S. State Department to answer why it has defied earlier court
rulings requiring review of a decision to maintain the main Iranian
opposition movement, the Mujahedin-e Khaq (MEK) on the terrorist list,
top former US officials and Members of Congress are urging the
Department to remove the group immediately.
"I believe we will not only get our day in court, I believe we will succeed," former U.S. Department of Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge told an audience of Members of Congress, staff members, and Iranian-Americans during an event, marking the Iranian New Year, Nowrouz. "Sometimes justice takes a little longer than normal, but sooner or later, righteousness and the law prevail, and we will prevail."
Other speakers included Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), the House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair, Rep. Mike Kaufman (R-CO), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) and retired Army Col. Wesley Martin, who commanded Camp Ashraf.
At issue is the fate of 3,400 Iranian dissidents now housed at Camp Ashraf and Camp Liberty in Iraq; their safe relocation has been vastly complicated by the State Department's refusal the make a decision on the Status of the MEK.
In 2010, a three-judge panel in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously ruled that the State Department had violated the due process rights of the MEK and ordered the Obama administration to revisit the issue. Since then, the State Department continues to be in violation of the due process in virtue of its refusal to make a decision based on instructions given by the Court.
Earlier this month, attorneys for the MEK filed a writ of mandamus seeking the court's intervention in light of State inaction. The court did so expeditiously, and gave the government a deadline of March 26 to respond to the mandamus.
In the meantime, in a move which some observers believe is tied to the court developments, the Treasury Department is apparently contemplating a "potential" investigation into the source of funding for events where a number of senior former federal law enforcement, intelligence and and national security officials had urged that the MEK be dropped from the State Department's terror list and the residents of Ashraf be protected.
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-CA, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, has called this inquiry "a travesty," adding that it is "a sin that our government is going after these people trying to support the people of Iran."
"It seems that the method to silence those who are in favor of the liberation of the MEK from the foreign terrorist organization... is to attack them personally... That is not going to work. Whoever is behind the attacks on these good men and women with unbelievable credentials, who believe in the de-listing of the MEK, it will not succeed," emphasized the Texas Republican, Rep. Ted Poe.
Since the Court ruling, nearly 130 members of Congress, including House Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mike Rogers (R-MI), Oversight and Government Reform Chair Darrel Issa (R-CA) and Armed Services Committee Chair Howard McKeon (R-CA), have co-sponsored resolutions calling for the delisting of the MEK.
"I believe we will not only get our day in court, I believe we will succeed," former U.S. Department of Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge told an audience of Members of Congress, staff members, and Iranian-Americans during an event, marking the Iranian New Year, Nowrouz. "Sometimes justice takes a little longer than normal, but sooner or later, righteousness and the law prevail, and we will prevail."
Other speakers included Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), the House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair, Rep. Mike Kaufman (R-CO), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) and retired Army Col. Wesley Martin, who commanded Camp Ashraf.
At issue is the fate of 3,400 Iranian dissidents now housed at Camp Ashraf and Camp Liberty in Iraq; their safe relocation has been vastly complicated by the State Department's refusal the make a decision on the Status of the MEK.
In 2010, a three-judge panel in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit unanimously ruled that the State Department had violated the due process rights of the MEK and ordered the Obama administration to revisit the issue. Since then, the State Department continues to be in violation of the due process in virtue of its refusal to make a decision based on instructions given by the Court.
Earlier this month, attorneys for the MEK filed a writ of mandamus seeking the court's intervention in light of State inaction. The court did so expeditiously, and gave the government a deadline of March 26 to respond to the mandamus.
In the meantime, in a move which some observers believe is tied to the court developments, the Treasury Department is apparently contemplating a "potential" investigation into the source of funding for events where a number of senior former federal law enforcement, intelligence and and national security officials had urged that the MEK be dropped from the State Department's terror list and the residents of Ashraf be protected.
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-CA, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, has called this inquiry "a travesty," adding that it is "a sin that our government is going after these people trying to support the people of Iran."
"It seems that the method to silence those who are in favor of the liberation of the MEK from the foreign terrorist organization... is to attack them personally... That is not going to work. Whoever is behind the attacks on these good men and women with unbelievable credentials, who believe in the de-listing of the MEK, it will not succeed," emphasized the Texas Republican, Rep. Ted Poe.
Since the Court ruling, nearly 130 members of Congress, including House Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mike Rogers (R-MI), Oversight and Government Reform Chair Darrel Issa (R-CA) and Armed Services Committee Chair Howard McKeon (R-CA), have co-sponsored resolutions calling for the delisting of the MEK.
NASA Delays Five Rocket Mission From Virginia
WALLOPS ISLAND, Va., March 24, 2012 - NASA has rescheduled the launch of five suborbital sounding rockets from the Wallops Facility in Virginia as part of a study of the upper level jet stream to no earlier than Monday morning March 26.
Unacceptable weather is expected for a launch attempt on March 25. A decision on a March 26 launch attempt will be made in the evening on March 24.
The Anomalous Transport Rocket Experiment (ATREX) will gather information needed to better understand the process responsible for the high-altitude jet stream located 60 to 65 miles above the surface of the Earth.
As part the mission, the five rockets will release a chemical tracer that will form milky, white clouds that allow scientists and the public to "see" the winds in space. These clouds may be visible for up to 20 minutes by residents from South Carolina to southern New Hampshire and Vermont.
Unacceptable weather is expected for a launch attempt on March 25. A decision on a March 26 launch attempt will be made in the evening on March 24.
The Anomalous Transport Rocket Experiment (ATREX) will gather information needed to better understand the process responsible for the high-altitude jet stream located 60 to 65 miles above the surface of the Earth.
As part the mission, the five rockets will release a chemical tracer that will form milky, white clouds that allow scientists and the public to "see" the winds in space. These clouds may be visible for up to 20 minutes by residents from South Carolina to southern New Hampshire and Vermont.
Top 50 Destinations in US
PHOENIX, March 24, 2012 - U-Haul International, Inc., today released the results
of the annual 2011 U-Haul National Migration Trend Report, titled "The
2011 Top 50 U.S. Destination Cities." According to moving data
reflective of nationwide statistics for calendar year 2011, Houston took the No. 1 spot again, for the third year in a row. For the second year in a row, Orlando, Fla., Las Vegas and Chicago all ranked No. 2 - 4 respectively, while San Antonio came in at No. 5, up from No. 6 in 2010. Austin, Texas; Atlanta; Sacramento, Calif.; Kansas City, Mo. and Denver rounded out the top 10.
"Since 1945, U-Haul has built a long and proud history of relocating Americans," said U-Haul President of Phoenix Operations John "J.T." Taylor. "While recent economic conditions may have played a role as to where people have moved, our customers continue to rely on us to provide affordable services at convenient locations, which makes moving easier and more economical. This has the additional positive effect of reducing the amount of carbon emissions released into the atmosphere and saves our customers money."
The ranking reflects destinations for movers traveling more than 50 miles, and considers every city in the country, regardless of size. However, the data is not stated as a percentage of population and is not reflective of overall growth.
The 2011 Top 50 U.S. Destination Cities Report was compiled from more than 1.6 million U-Haul truck transactions occurring during a recent 12-month period.
U-Haul Top 50 U.S. Destination Cities
|
|||
January - December 2011
|
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1.
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HOUSTON
|
26.
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CHARLOTTE
, N.C.
|
2.
|
ORLANDO
, Fla.
|
27.
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OKLAHOMA CITY
|
3.
|
LAS VEGAS
|
28.
|
MINNEAPOLIS
|
4.
|
CHICAGO
|
29.
|
BRONX
, N.Y.
|
5.
|
SAN ANTONIO
|
30.
|
PORTLAND
, Ore.
|
6.
|
AUSTIN
, Texas
|
31.
|
TUCSON
, Ariz.
|
7.
|
ATLANTA
|
32.
|
QUEENS
, N.Y.
|
8.
|
SACRAMENTO
, Calif.
|
33.
|
BALTIMORE
|
9.
|
KANSAS CITY
, Mo.
|
34.
|
LONG BEACH
, Calif.
|
10.
|
DENVER
|
35.
|
PLANO
, Texas
|
11.
|
PHILADELPHIA
|
36.
|
BIRMINGHAM
, Ala.
|
12.
|
SAN DIEGO
|
37.
|
FULLERTON
, Calif.
|
13.
|
BROOKLYN
, N.Y.
|
38.
|
TULSA
, Okla.
|
14.
|
PHOENIX
|
39.
|
MILWAUKEE
|
15.
|
DALLAS
|
40.
|
SEATTLE
|
16.
|
COLUMBUS
, Ohio
|
41.
|
ALBUQUERQUE
, N.M.
|
17.
|
TAMPA
, Fla.
|
42.
|
COLUMBIA
, S.C.
|
18.
|
LOS ANGELES
|
43.
|
SAN JOSE
, Calif.
|
19.
|
VAN NUYS, Calif.
|
44.
|
FORT WORTH
, Texas
|
20.
|
COSTA MESA, Calif.
|
45.
|
RICHMOND
, Va.
|
21.
|
NEW YORK CITY
|
46.
|
COLORADO SPRINGS
, Colo.
|
22.
|
JACKSONVILLE
, Fla.
|
47.
|
RALEIGH
, N.C.
|
23.
|
INDIANAPOLIS
|
48.
|
FRESNO
, Calif.
|
24.
|
SAN FRANCISCO
|
49.
|
EDISON
, N.J.
|
25.
|
ST. LOUIS
|
50.
|
VICTORVILLE, Calif.
|
"Since 1945, U-Haul has built a long and proud history of relocating Americans," said U-Haul President of Phoenix Operations John "J.T." Taylor. "While recent economic conditions may have played a role as to where people have moved, our customers continue to rely on us to provide affordable services at convenient locations, which makes moving easier and more economical. This has the additional positive effect of reducing the amount of carbon emissions released into the atmosphere and saves our customers money."
The ranking reflects destinations for movers traveling more than 50 miles, and considers every city in the country, regardless of size. However, the data is not stated as a percentage of population and is not reflective of overall growth.
The 2011 Top 50 U.S. Destination Cities Report was compiled from more than 1.6 million U-Haul truck transactions occurring during a recent 12-month period.
Acclaimed Filmmaker Steve James Comes to Webster University
Mr. James is an Inaugural 2012 Global Leader in Residence
ST. LOUIS, March 23, 2012 - Webster University and the Office of Corporate Partnerships are pleased to welcome award-winning filmmaker Steve James, as an inaugural 2012 Global Leader in Residence on April 26-28, 2012 in the School of Communications.
Films by Mr. James have played in festivals around the world, including Sundance, The International Documentary Film Festival in Amsterdam (IDFA) and Full Frame, and have been released theatrically throughout the world. He has received an Academy Award®, a Peabody Award and a Directors Guild of America Award. He is a producer with Chicago-based Kartemquin Films, a documentary group that has been making films since 1966.
Mr. James is widely known for his legendary 1995 film Hoop Dreams, which was recently selected for the Library of Congress National Film Registry. He will be presenting this film along with three others and hosting special events at Webster University:
|
Thursday, April 26:
|
President's Opening Reception, Noon – 1:30 P.M.
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|
|
East Academic Building, Room 253, Webster University
|
|
|
|
|
Thursday, April 26:
|
Film: Hoop Dreams, 7 P.M.
|
|
|
Q & A with Steve James follows the film
|
|
|
Winifred Moore Auditorium, Webster University
|
|
|
|
|
Friday, April 27:
|
Film: The Interrupters, 7:30 P.M.
|
|
|
Meet & Greet Steve James Reception 6-7 P.M.
|
|
|
Q & A follows the film
|
|
|
Winifred Moore Auditorium, Webster University
|
|
|
|
|
Saturday, April 28:
|
Filmmaking Workshop with Steve James
10 A.M. – Noon
|
|
|
Workshop/master class is open to anyone interested in making documentary films or learning how films are made.
|
|
|
Winifred Moore Auditorium, Webster University
|
|
|
|
|
Saturday, April 28:
|
Film: No Crossover: The Trial of Allen Iverson 7:30
P.M.
|
|
|
Winifred Moore Auditorium, Webster University
|
|
|
|
|
Sunday, April 29:
|
Film: At the Death House Door, 7:30 P.M.
|
|
|
Winifred Moore Auditorium, Webster University
|
All films and events are free and open to the public. The President's Opening Reception, Meet & Greet Steve James Reception, and Filmmaking Workshop require reservations: http://www.webster.edu/partners/executives.shtml.
Reservations for the films: www.kdhx.org/mediaarts.
"Steve James is one of the most courageous and talented documentary filmmakers I've ever known," states Debra Carpenter, Dean of the School of Communications. "It is such a unique opportunity for our students, faculty and community to be able to interact with him. Steve's work always focuses on a better world and how we all can help through our individual actions and commitment."
The newly announced Global Leaders in Residence program presents distinguished individuals who are considered thought leaders in their fields from across a wide spectrum of disciplines. While in residence, each Global Leader will interact with students to assist in real world learning by connecting theory to practice. They will share their unique perspectives based upon their experiences, in forums that are free and open to all students, faculty and the general public.
This Global Leader in Residence event is co-sponsored by Webster University School of Communications, The Webster Film Series, KDHX Radio, The Missouri Arts Council and The Regional Arts Commission.
Webster University's mission of ensuring high quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence is an ideal environment for these distinguished leaders to connect students to deep, real-world knowledge of significance.
Treatment for Gum Disease Can Lower Medical Costs for People With Diabetes
United Concordia Dental offers innovative program in response to study findings
HARRISBURG, Pa., March 23, 2012 - Medical costs are lower for people with diabetes who receive treatment for gum disease, according to a study presented today to the American Association for Dental Research by Dr. Marjorie Jeffcoat of the University of Pennsylvania. The study was done in collaboration with United Concordia Dental and Highmark Inc."The study showed that periodontal treatment and ongoing maintenance is associated with a significant decrease in the cost of medical care for people with diabetes – in the amount of $1,800 per year," said James Bramson, D.D.S., chief dental officer for United Concordia. "The findings also showed that hospitalizations decreased by 33 percent and physician visits by 13 percent across the entire study population of diabetics when gum disease is treated and managed afterward." Findings related to pharmacy costs in the study population will be released in the near future.
More than 25.8 million adults and children are living with diabetes in 2011 – a number that has more than doubled since 1999, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"It is really a landmark study because of its size and three-year duration. These numbers clearly demonstrate the importance of the study's findings for people with diabetes, as well as the impact the treatment of gum disease can have on the rising medical costs associated with diabetes," said. Dr. Bramson.
F.G. Merkel, United Concordia president and chief operating officer, said the dental insurer and its parent company, Highmark Inc., funded the study by Professor and Dean Emeritus Marjorie Jeffcoat, D.M.D., of the University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, because of United Concordia's increasing concern with the importance of oral health on overall health and to underscore both companies' commitment to wellness.
"The study points to the ability to lower medical costs among patients with diabetes through appropriate dental care," said Merkel. "Because of what we now know, United Concordia is introducing a group product that provides additional coverage for treatment of periodontal disease for members with diabetes. We believe that employers will realize reduced medical costs when their employees with diabetes receive appropriate periodontal care."
As a result of the study's findings, United Concordia will offer UCWellness, a disease-specific program that provides 100 percent coverage for maintenance following periodontal treatment, certain surgical procedures that treat gum disease and removal of plaque and tartar in patients with gum disease. An important component of UCWellness is targeted education geared toward covered members with diabetes.
"What makes UCWellness different than others on the market is the enhanced surgical benefit we are offering," said Merkel. "United Concordia is the first to offer this type and level of coverage to people with diabetes."
"A considerable amount of literature exists pointing to an association between dental disease and certain medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and premature or low birth weight infants," said Dr. Jeffcoat. "The number of individuals' data in this study makes it the largest of its kind and is clinically significant in my opinion."
The information being released related to diabetes is the first in a series of findings which will demonstrate that appropriate dental treatment and maintenance can actually help lower medical costs for individuals with certain medical conditions.
"We hope these additional findings will show medically related cost savings as well. What's clear now is that appropriate dental treatment and maintenance for diabetics can predict lower medical costs," said Dr. Bramson.
The University of Pennsylvania study analyzed data over a three-year period from nearly 1.7 million individuals with United Concordia dental and Highmark medical coverage. It focused on determining if dental cleanings and/or treatment of gum disease would decrease the cost of medical care in patients who have diabetes. The study will also analyze other chronic diseases and conditions, such as heart disease, strokes and pregnancy with pre-term birth.
Dr. Jeffcoat presented the diabetes findings today to more than 2,500 attendees at the American Association for Dental Research annual meeting in Tampa, Florida. United Concordia expects to release the finding for the other diseases and conditions when the analysis is complete and will use the information to help employers drive down group benefit costs.
About United Concordia
United Concordia is a leading national dental carrier and delivers high-quality, cost-effective dental programs. Headquartered in Harrisburg, Pa., the company has more than 8 million members, a network of more than 76,000 dentists at over 163,000 access points nationwide and is licensed in all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico. United Concordia has a companywide dedication and commitment to superior customer service, which is evident in the design, implementation, administration and servicing of its dental benefits programs.
US school declares hug-free zone
New York, Mar 23, 2012 - Lesson of the day at one New Jersey school: No hugging. The principal at Matawan Aberdeen Middle School, which teaches more than 900 children of 11 to 14 years old, has caused a ruckus with his announcement that from now on they part of a no hugging school.
The measure aimed to iron out what the regional school district delicately called incidents of unsuitable, physical interactions.
When the hugging fatwa triggered a wave of media snickering, officials backtracked and said hugging was OK -- sort of.
ÒThere is no policy specific to hugging and we have not nor will we be suspending students for hugging,Ó David Healy, superintendent of schools in the district, said in a statement yesterday.
ÒIt is unfortunate that there are those who find purpose and humour in sensationalising such a routine school-related issue.
The measure aimed to iron out what the regional school district delicately called incidents of unsuitable, physical interactions.
When the hugging fatwa triggered a wave of media snickering, officials backtracked and said hugging was OK -- sort of.
ÒThere is no policy specific to hugging and we have not nor will we be suspending students for hugging,Ó David Healy, superintendent of schools in the district, said in a statement yesterday.
ÒIt is unfortunate that there are those who find purpose and humour in sensationalising such a routine school-related issue.
New rules expand US intelligence access to data
Washington, March 23, 2012 - President Barack Obama's administration has adopted new guidelines that allow US counterterrorism agents to keep information acquired from other federal agencies for up to five years.
The new guidelines were adopted in part in response to intelligence lapses ahead of the 2009 Fort Hood military base shooting and the foiled underwear bomb plot to blow up a plane on Christmas Day 2009, the government said.
They will allow the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) to hold onto a trove of information from other federal agencies -- including on Americans not suspected of terrorism -- for five years as opposed to 180 days.
The NCTC said the new guidelines will allow it to Òretain certain datasets that are likely to contain significant terrorism information and are already in the lawful custody and control of other federal agencies for up to five years.Ó The NCTC said the new process -- announced yesterday -- would be under Òrobust oversightÓ and would not compromise civil liberties or privacy rights.
But Michael German, of the American Civil Liberties Union, was quoted in the Washington Post as saying that the purpose of such safeguards is to ensure that the Òrobust tools that we give the military and intelligence community to protect Americans from foreign threats aren't directed back against Americans.Ó ÒWatering down those rules raises significant concerns that US persons are being targeted or swept up in these collection programs and can be harmed by continuing investigations for as long as these agencies hold the data.Ó US intelligence agencies have spent much of the last decade working to improve the sharing of information after bureaucratic feuding was identified as a major factor in failing to prevent the September 11, 2001 attacks.
ÒFollowing the failed terrorist attack in December 2009, representatives of the counterterrorism community concluded it is vital for NCTC to be provided with a variety of datasets from various agencies that contain terrorism information,Ó Director of National Intelligence James Clapper said.
ÒThe ability to search against these datasets for up to five years on a continuing basis as these updated guidelines permit will enable NCTC to accomplish its mission more practically and effectively.
The new guidelines were adopted in part in response to intelligence lapses ahead of the 2009 Fort Hood military base shooting and the foiled underwear bomb plot to blow up a plane on Christmas Day 2009, the government said.
They will allow the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) to hold onto a trove of information from other federal agencies -- including on Americans not suspected of terrorism -- for five years as opposed to 180 days.
The NCTC said the new guidelines will allow it to Òretain certain datasets that are likely to contain significant terrorism information and are already in the lawful custody and control of other federal agencies for up to five years.Ó The NCTC said the new process -- announced yesterday -- would be under Òrobust oversightÓ and would not compromise civil liberties or privacy rights.
But Michael German, of the American Civil Liberties Union, was quoted in the Washington Post as saying that the purpose of such safeguards is to ensure that the Òrobust tools that we give the military and intelligence community to protect Americans from foreign threats aren't directed back against Americans.Ó ÒWatering down those rules raises significant concerns that US persons are being targeted or swept up in these collection programs and can be harmed by continuing investigations for as long as these agencies hold the data.Ó US intelligence agencies have spent much of the last decade working to improve the sharing of information after bureaucratic feuding was identified as a major factor in failing to prevent the September 11, 2001 attacks.
ÒFollowing the failed terrorist attack in December 2009, representatives of the counterterrorism community concluded it is vital for NCTC to be provided with a variety of datasets from various agencies that contain terrorism information,Ó Director of National Intelligence James Clapper said.
ÒThe ability to search against these datasets for up to five years on a continuing basis as these updated guidelines permit will enable NCTC to accomplish its mission more practically and effectively.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Audi launches sports car TT in India at Rs 48.36 lakh
New Delhi, (India), Mar 23, 2012 - Expanding its product portfolio, German luxury car maker Audi today launched its sports car TT in India, priced at Rs 48.36 lakh (ex-showroom).
The company will start selling the car from June this year and it will be sold as a completely built unit (CBU).
ÒWe are already a major player in the premium sports segment and I am confident that the introduction of the Audi TT will further help us consolidate our leadership position in the sports car segment in the country,Ó Audi India Head Michael Perschke told reporters.
The company has announced the price taking into consideration of the 15 per cent hike in customs duty in the Budget for 2012-13, he added.
ÒAs this segment is a very niche one, so we are not expecting a very large volume. The total size of this premium sports car market is 200-250 units per year. As we will start despatching the car in the middle of this year, we are hopeful of selling 25-35 units in 2012,Ó Perschke said.
The company is expecting to sell over 50 units of the TT Coupe in the next year, he added.
The company is present in the premium sports car category with models like R8, R8 Spyder and RS5.
The new TT is powered by a 2.0 TFSI engine that can touch a speed of 100 km per hour in just 5.6 seconds.
Early this week, Audi India has raised prices of its entire range of products in India by up to 14 per cent due to hike in excise and customs duties in the Budget.
In February this year, the company's sales in India increased by 33.33 per cent to 600 units from 450 units in the same month last year.
The company had earlier announced a sales target of 8,000 units for India for 2012 compared to 5,511 units that it had sold in 2011.
Audi India, a part of the European auto major Volkswagen Group, sells various models in India such as premium sedans A4, A6 and A8, sports utility vehicles Q5 and Q7, and sports cars RS5 Coupe, R8 and R8 Spyder.
The company will start selling the car from June this year and it will be sold as a completely built unit (CBU).
ÒWe are already a major player in the premium sports segment and I am confident that the introduction of the Audi TT will further help us consolidate our leadership position in the sports car segment in the country,Ó Audi India Head Michael Perschke told reporters.
The company has announced the price taking into consideration of the 15 per cent hike in customs duty in the Budget for 2012-13, he added.
ÒAs this segment is a very niche one, so we are not expecting a very large volume. The total size of this premium sports car market is 200-250 units per year. As we will start despatching the car in the middle of this year, we are hopeful of selling 25-35 units in 2012,Ó Perschke said.
The company is expecting to sell over 50 units of the TT Coupe in the next year, he added.
The company is present in the premium sports car category with models like R8, R8 Spyder and RS5.
The new TT is powered by a 2.0 TFSI engine that can touch a speed of 100 km per hour in just 5.6 seconds.
Early this week, Audi India has raised prices of its entire range of products in India by up to 14 per cent due to hike in excise and customs duties in the Budget.
In February this year, the company's sales in India increased by 33.33 per cent to 600 units from 450 units in the same month last year.
The company had earlier announced a sales target of 8,000 units for India for 2012 compared to 5,511 units that it had sold in 2011.
Audi India, a part of the European auto major Volkswagen Group, sells various models in India such as premium sedans A4, A6 and A8, sports utility vehicles Q5 and Q7, and sports cars RS5 Coupe, R8 and R8 Spyder.
Green Tribunal apprehends presence of metal in Coke
New Delhi, (India), Mar 23, 2012 - After detection of traces of heavy metals like lead and cadmium in discharged effluent samples of Coca-Cola's Jalpaigudi plant, the National Green Tribunal has said the metals Òmay also be presentÓ in the factory's product and has expressed concern over the possibility.
The tribunal has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to collect and analyse the samples of discharged effluent from the plant before the renewal of the consent to operate the plant, saying the nod would depend upon the CPCB report.
The NGT, however, allowed Hindustan Cocacola Beverages Pvt Ltd's plea and quashed West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) order dated May 2, 2011, which had directed the soft drink manufacturer to deposit Rs five lakhs towards Òpollution costÓ along with a bank guarantee of a like amount as surety for compliance with environmental standards.
ÒBefore parting, we feel it proper to express our concern with regard to the presence of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in discharged effluent. Presence of said substances in the effluent would finally contaminate the environment, and shall cause hazards to human life.
ÒIt appears, no steps, howsoever has been taken by the WBPCB or by the Appellant to trace out the source of such heavy metals found in the effluent. It is quite possible that
heavy metals/ lead and cadmium etc. may also be present in the products.
ÒWe, therefore, direct the WBPCB as well as the appellant (Coca-Cola) to conduct analysis of the water and raw materials used for the purpose, and not only detect the source but also take appropriate steps for eradicating the same so as to avoid any adverse health impacts,Ó a bench of NGT headed by Acting Chairperson Justice A S Naidu said.
The bench, however, quashed the May 2011 order of the WBPCB saying the same was ÒsilentÓ about the analysis report of the specimen collected in December 2010, which satisfied the prescribed standards.
ÒIn view of the discussions made above, we allow the appeal and set aside the direction dated May 2, 2011 of the WBPCB and call upon the respondent to proceed in accordance with the law.
ÒWe also direct the CPCB, New Delhi and its zonal office at Kolkata, West Bengal to collect the effluent discharged from the appellant's plant as per the paraphernalia laid down under law, analyse the same in all aspects, particularly with regard to the presence of heavy metals (lead and cadmium etc) and prepare a report,Ó the bench said.
ÒThe renewal of the consent to operate the plant would be dependent on the report of the CPCB,Ó it added.
The WBPCB had collected samples of discharged effluents from the plant in August and October 2010 and had issued a show cause notice to the company after finding that various pollutants within the samples were not within the prescribed limits.
The company had filed its response and assured it to comply with the standards fixed by the board.
Later on December 29, 2010, the WBPCB had again collected the samples of discharged effluents, which Òsatisfied the standard prescribed and there was no violationÓ.
The state pollution board, however, passed an order on May 2, 2011 directing Coca-Cola to Òensure continuous and smooth functioning of the pollution abatement system in all its unit operations and comply with the environmental standardsÓ.
It asked Coca-Cola to submit an action plan for compliance of Òthe liquid effluent discharge standardÓ within 15 days and asked it to deposit the pollution cost and bank guarantee of Rs five lakh each.
The May 2, 2011 order of the WBPCB was challenged by the company before the green tribunal.
The tribunal has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to collect and analyse the samples of discharged effluent from the plant before the renewal of the consent to operate the plant, saying the nod would depend upon the CPCB report.
The NGT, however, allowed Hindustan Cocacola Beverages Pvt Ltd's plea and quashed West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) order dated May 2, 2011, which had directed the soft drink manufacturer to deposit Rs five lakhs towards Òpollution costÓ along with a bank guarantee of a like amount as surety for compliance with environmental standards.
ÒBefore parting, we feel it proper to express our concern with regard to the presence of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in discharged effluent. Presence of said substances in the effluent would finally contaminate the environment, and shall cause hazards to human life.
ÒIt appears, no steps, howsoever has been taken by the WBPCB or by the Appellant to trace out the source of such heavy metals found in the effluent. It is quite possible that
heavy metals/ lead and cadmium etc. may also be present in the products.
ÒWe, therefore, direct the WBPCB as well as the appellant (Coca-Cola) to conduct analysis of the water and raw materials used for the purpose, and not only detect the source but also take appropriate steps for eradicating the same so as to avoid any adverse health impacts,Ó a bench of NGT headed by Acting Chairperson Justice A S Naidu said.
The bench, however, quashed the May 2011 order of the WBPCB saying the same was ÒsilentÓ about the analysis report of the specimen collected in December 2010, which satisfied the prescribed standards.
ÒIn view of the discussions made above, we allow the appeal and set aside the direction dated May 2, 2011 of the WBPCB and call upon the respondent to proceed in accordance with the law.
ÒWe also direct the CPCB, New Delhi and its zonal office at Kolkata, West Bengal to collect the effluent discharged from the appellant's plant as per the paraphernalia laid down under law, analyse the same in all aspects, particularly with regard to the presence of heavy metals (lead and cadmium etc) and prepare a report,Ó the bench said.
ÒThe renewal of the consent to operate the plant would be dependent on the report of the CPCB,Ó it added.
The WBPCB had collected samples of discharged effluents from the plant in August and October 2010 and had issued a show cause notice to the company after finding that various pollutants within the samples were not within the prescribed limits.
The company had filed its response and assured it to comply with the standards fixed by the board.
Later on December 29, 2010, the WBPCB had again collected the samples of discharged effluents, which Òsatisfied the standard prescribed and there was no violationÓ.
The state pollution board, however, passed an order on May 2, 2011 directing Coca-Cola to Òensure continuous and smooth functioning of the pollution abatement system in all its unit operations and comply with the environmental standardsÓ.
It asked Coca-Cola to submit an action plan for compliance of Òthe liquid effluent discharge standardÓ within 15 days and asked it to deposit the pollution cost and bank guarantee of Rs five lakh each.
The May 2, 2011 order of the WBPCB was challenged by the company before the green tribunal.
Agnee composes Hindi theme song for 'The Avengers'
New Delhi, (India), March 23, 2012 - Popular Indie pop band Agnee has composed a theme song 'Hello Andhero' for the Hindi version of Scarlett Johansson-Robert Downey Jr starrer action-adventure ÒThe AvengersÓ .
The lyrics of the song have been penned by director Abbas Tyrewala and it will be officially launched on March 26 when the band will take the stage and perform live.
ÒThis one's been a song that's taken us on a long and very satisfying journey. We are glad to be part. 'Avengers' is one of the most awaited films this year, and seeing the video, we're sure it'll be well worth the wait,Ó said Agnee's frontmen, Mohan and Koco.
ÒThe AvengersÓ will bring together the super hero team of Marvel Comics characters for the first time ever, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Hulk and more, as they are forced to band together to battle the biggest foe they have ever faced.
The Joss Whedon directed film also stars Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Jeremy Renner and Samuel L Jackson.
ÒThe AvengersÓ produced by Marvel Studios and distributed in India by UTV Motion Pictures is set to release on April 27, a week before the US release date.
The film will be released in 3D and 2D versions and has also been dubbed for Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
The lyrics of the song have been penned by director Abbas Tyrewala and it will be officially launched on March 26 when the band will take the stage and perform live.
ÒThis one's been a song that's taken us on a long and very satisfying journey. We are glad to be part. 'Avengers' is one of the most awaited films this year, and seeing the video, we're sure it'll be well worth the wait,Ó said Agnee's frontmen, Mohan and Koco.
ÒThe AvengersÓ will bring together the super hero team of Marvel Comics characters for the first time ever, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Hulk and more, as they are forced to band together to battle the biggest foe they have ever faced.
The Joss Whedon directed film also stars Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Jeremy Renner and Samuel L Jackson.
ÒThe AvengersÓ produced by Marvel Studios and distributed in India by UTV Motion Pictures is set to release on April 27, a week before the US release date.
The film will be released in 3D and 2D versions and has also been dubbed for Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
India may modify FDI norms for single brand Retail
New Delhi, (India), March 22, 2012 - The government is likely to modify the guidelines for FDI in single-brand retail to ensure that foreign retailers can have long term relationship with micro and small enterprises (MSEs).
The changes, according to sources, would address the concerns of the foreign retailers about 30 per cent mandatory sourcing of their requirements from MSEs even after they become big and lose MSE tag.
The government while increasing FDI in single-brand retail to 100 per cent has stipulated that the foreign companies should atleast procure 30 per cent of their requirements from MSEs.
International retailers, including IKEA have expressed concerns over the lack of clarity on this condition saying that under the present norms they would have to change the vendors once an MSE cross the plant and machinery investment limit of USD 1 million (about Rs 5 crore).
The foreign retailers have suggested that the condition should be modified so that they can continue to procure goods from the same vendor even after it loses its MSE tag.
ÒThe clarification may feature in forthcoming FDI policy circular scheduled to be released on March 30,Ó the sources said.
According to Reliance Brands President and CEO Darshan Mehta India is a complex market and the restriction to source from villages and cottage industries would make it impossible for brands looking to enter India on their own.
Reliance Brands, a subsidiary of Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Retail, has joint ventures or license arrangements with seven fashion and lifestyle brands, including Marks & Spencer, Diesel, Zegna, Timberland and Paul & Shark.
The changes, according to sources, would address the concerns of the foreign retailers about 30 per cent mandatory sourcing of their requirements from MSEs even after they become big and lose MSE tag.
The government while increasing FDI in single-brand retail to 100 per cent has stipulated that the foreign companies should atleast procure 30 per cent of their requirements from MSEs.
International retailers, including IKEA have expressed concerns over the lack of clarity on this condition saying that under the present norms they would have to change the vendors once an MSE cross the plant and machinery investment limit of USD 1 million (about Rs 5 crore).
The foreign retailers have suggested that the condition should be modified so that they can continue to procure goods from the same vendor even after it loses its MSE tag.
ÒThe clarification may feature in forthcoming FDI policy circular scheduled to be released on March 30,Ó the sources said.
According to Reliance Brands President and CEO Darshan Mehta India is a complex market and the restriction to source from villages and cottage industries would make it impossible for brands looking to enter India on their own.
Reliance Brands, a subsidiary of Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Retail, has joint ventures or license arrangements with seven fashion and lifestyle brands, including Marks & Spencer, Diesel, Zegna, Timberland and Paul & Shark.
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