Q 1. Nigeria has completed 49 years of Independence on October 1, 2009. Please share your views on Nigeria completed 49 years and future plans to enhance bi-lateral co-operation with India?
Ans. Nigeria is a huge and united country. Despite the fact we have so many different ethnic, religious and other groups in the country moulding together 250 plus different ethnic groups with various population somewhere in millions or in hundreds with different religious affiliation Muslim, Christian, those who don’t profess any religion and also the people those who have tradition religion. All these are such a big achievement for us and the fact is that we have been able to stay together as a country. We did that at a cost of a civil war, very costly civil war. But we also proud of our ability after this civil war to reintegrate the country both the Nigerian side and the -------(veteran) side came together as brothers and sisters. But apart from that we had political downfall and very serious military interruption. We see it as a part of throws of development and it held us back and slowed down our march towards democracy. The economy suffered as a result because the military are not meant to lead the Government; there way of doing things is completely different. Since 1960, we had various political experiments before we finally settled with Presidential system, which we now running for last 10 years without any problem. We had back to back elections peaceful transfer of power and that is significant for us. As far India bi-lateral relations are concerned, India shared with us right from the beginning. They shared colonial British rule provided a common platform for us. Also we found it very easy and comfortable to relate with Indian. We are also using same English as a language and also operating the same political system inherited from the British that facilitate little collaboration. Before Independence the British Colonial Tradition took few good things from India and used as a model for Nigeria. For eg. India recruit true the system gets the local leaders to be running the affairs they stay at the top. We borrowed this system from India. After Independence we find it easy to have Indians in Nigeria to work as Indian Teacher, Indian Instructor and Indian Doctors. We also collaborated with certain defence academy in Kaduna and we still maintained that closed collaboration with India and this is an overview of Nigeria since Independence.
Q 2. Nigeria is focusing on developing its mineral wealth special focus on gold, iron ore and coal. How would you see India as a collaborator in revamping this venture?
Ans. We in Nigeria is very fortunate, I think God is been kind to us because we have so much of potential and wealth in the ground and above the ground. Yes, solid mineral is in huge amount in Nigeria like gold, cobalt, tin, mine, precious stones, oil and gas. Before we started exploiting oil in commercial quantity, Nigeria was one of top producer of tin. There are so many different kinds of minerals and deposits of gold in different parts of the country provided with sufficient funds. Unfortunately when oil came everybody found it cheaper and started demanding oil and encouraged all to for it and in the process we started neglecting other resources. Right now the focus of the Government is to develop these resources. We have a special ministry for solid mineral resources which is charged with the responsibility of environment friendly utilization and exploitation of these resources in a environment friendly sustainable manner.
Indian companies have a lot of opportunities in Nigeria. One area which is right now working on is for the development of coal and we are lucky with high quality coal which has low sulphur content and it burns pretty well. We are working with Indian companies to develop power plants in Nigeria and that is another area of priority for Nigeria.
Q 3. What is the future of establishment of heavy industries viz tractors and other connected agricultural machinery in your country? How best India can help Nigeria in establishment of such assembly lines?
Ans. One of the things we are trying to look at India and trying to learn from India and what they have gone through. In the past in Nigeria we had a strategy for the development of these heavy industries. It was mainly funded by the government with collaboration of foreign partners. A number of car assembly plants were set up in Nigeria like Volkswagen, British Lehman group. I think about six major car assembly plants were established. We are also having massive complex of iron and steel in Ajaokuta. We also had number of petrochemical plants apart from refineries. We had a large base of Industrial establishments. Later we came realise that probably this may not be the best way for us because after spending so much money by the Government. We thought Government is not a very good manger for the companies and commercial outfit, so most of this becomes run down and inefficient. Now the policy is to commercialised and privatised most of the sectors. There is no restriction as to foreign ownership in these sectors. Earlier we had a policy which restricts foreigners to participate but now it is open to any foreign company can come and investment in Nigeria. They can do it 100 per cent and have al the incentives. Indian companies, I think have utilized their advantage of being in Nigeria to be participated. I am also aware that some of India companies has participated in petrochemical, iron and steel sector in Nigeria and can do a lot more.
India was also working with us to establish machine tool industry. I think they are still working on it. The opportunities are there and are also active in Nigeria in pharmaceuticals, textiles, petrochemical, iron and steel industry.
Q 4. How independent your country is in the field of healthcare? Many ailing patients from abroad are coming to India for major treatments and surgeries? How do you recommend medical tourism between India and Nigeria? How the person sitting in the remote area in Nigeria?
Ans This one of the area where we are struggling to keep up, By our own shaded in Africa, Nigeria is reasonably is a large country which has a population of 140 million and the fact that the most of the people are provided health care in rural areas. The challengers are providing health care in rural areas. WE have been interested in working with Indian authorities to see again how we can learn from the experience and how to manage such a large population like India to ensure medical care given to them. The development of medicine now has comes so fast with the experiment of technology it is a very hi-tech and expensive venture no other country than India provides such excellent facilities and equipments and still give a low cost medical healthcare and India is been able to do that.
We also have patients coming from Nigeria to Apollo Hospital, Primus and Fortis Hospitals in India. It has been growing and the key is that India is providing treatment in such an affordable rates. The Indian High Commission in Abuja is very active on this issue. I believe some of the hospitals have agents in Nigeria who send patients to India for the treatment but that is unofficial side of the story. The Official side is that we are collaborating and trying to establish relation between hospitals in India and Nigeria. We also had no of Hospitals in Nigeria that are linked with the hospitals in India and Abuja.
So we have a lot of opportunities and lot of things to look upon. I hope to see more of collaboration with the hospitals to share and exchange doctors, consultancy service and probably Indian hospitals to work their in Nigeria coming to India to do training programmes.
Right now there are hospitals which are especially in concern to provide Kidney, liver transplant, neuro sciences, heart surgeries and back bone marrow treatments. We are working on it and able to formularize these medical services. However Nigeria and India have identified as among likely who are not meeting their MDG goals in terms of medical healthcare on the other hand we are making progress in the remote areas in Nigeria to create awareness among Nigerians. The challenges we face are the population how to deal with that. But I am happy that we doing it potentially. I think things will blossom as their already their but there is a need to formularize it. I think we are well on making promises and fulfilling them. Even there are quite no. of Indian doctors they are familiar with the terrain who are there in various parts of Nigeria. I always believe that we have a lot of potential in ourselves.
Q 5. A large quantity of waste is generated leading to unsightly environment in the country? How is the waste handled in Nigeria? What importance is given to waste management?
Ans. This is another worrisome area in Nigeria. I think it is just like India. Some of the cities we have this waste management is a very serious problem. This is a very predominant challenge for the developing countries. The ratio between the income groups is more pronounced and they are people who are local income earners who are struggling with waste management particularly plastic waste which is not biodegradable which causes hazards. In major cities like Lagos there are so many schemes but it is not easier to recycle the waste. In the places like Abuja, the capital of Nigeria it is easy to recycle the waste disposal because Abuja is a very planned and new city and the population is just about 3 million. Waste disposal and management remains a challenge in some of the cities which are filthy and have heaps of waste which are not been removed. We are working on quite cities to how to recycle the different categories of waste in different containers. A lot of people have to internalise the concept of different kind of waste, waste paper and plastic and just mix it. This is another area we are working on it to make people understand how to segregate the waste. In some cities in Nigeria we are also embarking on a pilot project to transform this waste for power generation. Also studies are going to know how to utilize. This is the one way of using it in a productive manner to keep the environment clean.
Q 6. What is the future of small scale industries in Nigeria? How do you setting up incubators cum training centre for employment among youths?
Ans. The small scale industries strategies was focussing on huge industries, we left with huge white elephants which are not productive. The best thing to share about small scale industries is to tell the nature of a society we can encourage small scale units an community to perform and work to in small scale industry India is also encouraging the small scale industry.
Training centres basically the system of education in Nigeria is 6334 that is sixth is till primary school ,third is junior secondary school, again third is for senior secondary school and fourth is the university degrees and diplomas. The primary school provide basic reading and writing skills and they are universal for the child to go to the school by that time if you drop out from that level the child should have enough education to get in to the skilled craftsmanship. Those who don’t want to proceed for senior secondary and for degrees and diplomas, a child can get in training in vocational schools. Apart from the universities we have crafts schools where a child can learn craftsmanship and different areas. We have modified are education systems to provide employment to the teeming youth. The major problem we are facing is that the large number of population is under 20 and to them we have to provide jobs when they start producing there own children. The option is to share the expertise with India especially in the remote areas in Nigeria. Fortunately the development has made it possible to disseminate the information in a remote village where we have small computer and fortunately which does not required much power.
Actually we are running seven Point agenda identified issues such as
1 Power- because we have series shortage of power in Nigeria.
2 Infrastructure- in terms of roads, rails, ports and airports we believe that the private sector maintain these things better.
3 Human Capacity Index -Vocational Education to be given to the unemployed youth of Nigeria.
4 Agriculture- Nigeria has an abundant land, if we scratch the land and grow anything on it will grow.
5 Issue of Niger Delta
6 Issue of Health, (maternal care for rural women)
We are working with the friendliest country specially India to work with open heart.
Q 7. What is the impact of world wide recession on Nigeria? How do you refocus on foreign policy to improve the economy and strengthen its industrial base?
Ans When we talk about this world wide recession, the first thing comes to the mind is that it is the undesirable affect of globalisation because the countries are so inter-twined that if somebody sneezes somewhere then somebody catches the cold somewhere. We are pretty lucky that our exposure was not that much. We do have some negative consequence but we did not have very serious problems or any set back in our economy. The major reduction we may see is in the rate of growth from 7.3 per cent to 6.5 percent but we expected the reduction of six per cent. We also had some problem in the stock market since then there have been policies to sanitize the stock and the banking sectors. Otherwise we did not have much of the negative problem.
The key area of focus is to identify the country to collaborate with us and the countries with whom we are collaborating, we always try to learn new things. We are focusing on Eastern Asia country but our tradition partners are in the west and US. We are still struggling with manufacturing and trading activity the impact of this to make us more eastwards to go long with fellow developing countries.
Q 8. What are the plans of Government to increase tourism and extend and direct travel option?
Ans Tourism Industry in Nigeria is not that developed but we had a lot of tourist sites. But I think probably one of the causes is oil which make the Nigerians lazy and develop their areas to go to abroad and spend their easy money. Nigerians are great travellers and focus is that Nigeria does have tourist potential. We are working a quite number of countries who have success tourism. Regarding direct airline we directly issue 30-50 visas from India to Nigeria on daily basis. Unfortunately there is no direct flight. Earlier Air India was one of the direct flights but it was also stopped. Nigerian airline bell view was flying earlier but stopped due to some reasons. I hope we will be able to bring in direct flight from India to Nigeria. Recently there is one Indian company (Dena) in Nigeria whose doing domestics routes we are suppose to discuss this issue and hope this part of issue will resolve.
Q 9. In your opinion how do CII conclaves and the summit organized by FICCI help in strengthening India-Africa partnership?
Ans Begin of August, Lagos for West African region. The presence of the Indian companies is expanding really fast. I know there are so many Indian Companies who our workings in pharmaceuticals textiles iron & steel apart from those who involved in supplies of machinery like Bajaj& Mahindra and there power invertors and batteries and a lot of new things happing in Nigeria. Nigeria is the centre for whole of African region business not only for the internal population. Most of the countries come to Nigeria do their business and go back. When you talk about CII conclaves Lagos is made as the base. I think it was quite successful also, and more Indian companies will come to Nigeria for their businesses. Since I came to India I got so many letters of the companies to establish their business in Nigeria. We have made Nigeria as a one stop shop where in we brought everything together like central bank, custom to make easy for the companies to get registered with in 48 hours. Major challenges we are facing in Nigeria are power shortage and the negative impression about the Niger Delta. There are quite number of cases where in the businessman tell not to invest in Nigeria because of the insecurity purposes but later they themselves invest their to have less competition in Nigeria.
Q 10. Lastly, as the High Commissioner of Nigeria to India, what vision you hold for strengthening Africa-India relations?
Ans. This is a comment I wanted to make which I left for the last question. I outlined a brief history of our relationship but what I didn’t mention was that there had been a no. of high level exchanges which shows the political view at the highest level. Nigerian presidents have come for here; Indian presidents have been to Nigeria. Now the latest was in October 2007, two years ago when the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh paid a three days stayed visit to Abuja. One outstanding thing about that particular visit was that apart from those agreements, discussions they were able to had, we signed an agreement for strategic partnership between India and Nigeria. Now, the focus of my mission is to work for the implementation of that strategic partnership. And I have to say since I came I see a lot of goodwill and a lot of support from the government and I assure you it’s the same thing from Nigeria. Since that visit we have had so many high level delegations and ministerial visits. Foreign minister was to be here in Abuja next week. So the basis for moving forward for actualising the mission that job is already laid out for me on this solid foundation of long relationship and very close ties. Fortunately it has now covered three pillars of diplomacy i.e. politically, economically and socially I failed to mention who come here I employed Indians in their companies in the cement companies. We already have this basis with Indians and in a meeting with the ambassadors I said that I want to know any person who has no India Teachers or doctors and everyone said yes and start laughing. I think I made my point what kind of relations we have built with India. I also think that our trade industry has crossed 10 billion dollars despite of the global recession.
Also the new area is the Nollywood and it is budding industry after following Hollywood and Bollywood. We are closely following Nollywood and desire to see it as a bigger industry.
Friday, October 30, 2009
The Third Eye
Remember the blasts of the Mumbai, Delhi and London bombings in metro and railways in rush-hour killed several people. This is not the first time that terrorists have targeted public transport systems.
Why do terrorists attack transportation systems? They feel that they catch hold the media attention easily by exploding the public utilities. Certainly, the transportation systems are the power of any nation; attempt to disrupt them are an effective assault. Besides facilitating travel and mobility for the people, a nation's economy hugely depends on the road and transit systems. Even huge money is being spent on city surveillance systems by the Government of India. Closed circuit television video surveillance systems (CCTV) need to be introduced or enhanced in the public transport systems like metro train, buses and local trains in India. It is a vital tool to combat terrorism. Cameras can be placed in the DTC buses and also inside the Delhi metro train.
London has the most extensive surveillance system in world, with about 5, 00,000 CCTV’s in the city, including 6,000 in the underground path. India should move ahead and acknowledge this useful technology. This extensive system was used very successfully in the investigation of the July 2005 terrorist attacks on its subway and bus systems. The effective investigatory use of CCTV is very likely to be a significant prevention to future terrorist activities in India.
It is high time for the nation’s transportation system to focus on and use CCTV systems widely in public transportation.
Why do terrorists attack transportation systems? They feel that they catch hold the media attention easily by exploding the public utilities. Certainly, the transportation systems are the power of any nation; attempt to disrupt them are an effective assault. Besides facilitating travel and mobility for the people, a nation's economy hugely depends on the road and transit systems. Even huge money is being spent on city surveillance systems by the Government of India. Closed circuit television video surveillance systems (CCTV) need to be introduced or enhanced in the public transport systems like metro train, buses and local trains in India. It is a vital tool to combat terrorism. Cameras can be placed in the DTC buses and also inside the Delhi metro train.
London has the most extensive surveillance system in world, with about 5, 00,000 CCTV’s in the city, including 6,000 in the underground path. India should move ahead and acknowledge this useful technology. This extensive system was used very successfully in the investigation of the July 2005 terrorist attacks on its subway and bus systems. The effective investigatory use of CCTV is very likely to be a significant prevention to future terrorist activities in India.
It is high time for the nation’s transportation system to focus on and use CCTV systems widely in public transportation.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Green Eagles Goal Keeper dies of Brain Tumor
Best Ogedegbe, former Green Eagle number one goal keeper was diagnosed of brain tumor and bid adieu to the world on September 28, 2009.
Nigeria’s football community thrown into remembrance following the death of Best Anthony Ogedegbe, one of the nation’s goal keepers at the 1980 African Cup of Nations which Nigeria hosted and won. It was the first time the country won the esteemed football showpiece.
In a condolence visit to his family, the Oyo states commissioner for sports, Joe Makanjuola, on behalf of the Oyo Government expressed grief saying his death was the last thing the nation’s soccer family was expecting at the moment.
Ogedegbe, who played a major role in Nigeria’s moment of splendor with his outstanding vision, courage and charm in all of the Green Eagles’ games, died at the age of 55, due to the problems which take place from an eye surgery at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.
Best Ogedegbe, a native of Effurun in Delta State, was born on December 4, 1954 and was brought up in Lagos where he attended Eko Boys High School, Adelabu Memorial and Ibadan Grammar Schools. He had said: “I attended three secondary schools because my dad was a civil servant who was normally transferred from one place to the other.”
He took his work sincerely and also very friendly. The entire Green Eagle team is depressing about his death and also prayed that God will give his family the courage to bear the loss.
“Nigeria will miss his wealth of knowledge because he exhibited lots of experience in the area of Goal Keeping, which I feel would still have been useful for the country”, Stanley Eguma who worked with Ogedegbe last season.
Nigerians from all across the country paid homage to the late soccer star. He did a lot for the country including winning the first continental cup for the country. He would be deeply missed.
In reality Ogedegbe’s end will be felt in Nigeria’s sport circle, particularly in the game of football.
Nigeria’s football community thrown into remembrance following the death of Best Anthony Ogedegbe, one of the nation’s goal keepers at the 1980 African Cup of Nations which Nigeria hosted and won. It was the first time the country won the esteemed football showpiece.
In a condolence visit to his family, the Oyo states commissioner for sports, Joe Makanjuola, on behalf of the Oyo Government expressed grief saying his death was the last thing the nation’s soccer family was expecting at the moment.
Ogedegbe, who played a major role in Nigeria’s moment of splendor with his outstanding vision, courage and charm in all of the Green Eagles’ games, died at the age of 55, due to the problems which take place from an eye surgery at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.
Best Ogedegbe, a native of Effurun in Delta State, was born on December 4, 1954 and was brought up in Lagos where he attended Eko Boys High School, Adelabu Memorial and Ibadan Grammar Schools. He had said: “I attended three secondary schools because my dad was a civil servant who was normally transferred from one place to the other.”
He took his work sincerely and also very friendly. The entire Green Eagle team is depressing about his death and also prayed that God will give his family the courage to bear the loss.
“Nigeria will miss his wealth of knowledge because he exhibited lots of experience in the area of Goal Keeping, which I feel would still have been useful for the country”, Stanley Eguma who worked with Ogedegbe last season.
Nigerians from all across the country paid homage to the late soccer star. He did a lot for the country including winning the first continental cup for the country. He would be deeply missed.
In reality Ogedegbe’s end will be felt in Nigeria’s sport circle, particularly in the game of football.
Nigeria Corporate Banks bailed-out
Nigerian Corporate Banks are in serious state of affairs. Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has bailed-out four more banks and moreover sacked four of their Chief Executives.
The salvage banks are Equitorial Trust, Bank PHB, Spring Bank and Wema Bank has been given 200bn naira ($ 1.37bn) in loans and support. After an audit of their books, the Central Bank said the banks are considered to be in crucial condition.
Central Bank of Nigeria’s Governor Lamido Sansui has been scrutinizing the 24 banks and seeks to clean up the system. Five of the banks are not in the clear situation and have capital inadequacy issues.
The CBN Governor Lamido Sansui wasted no time in sacking the CEOs of the affected banks, amongst them two time winner of the African Businesswoman of the year-Cecilia Ibru of Oceanic Bank and also sealing off their premises with the armed police. The Current Governor of Nigeria is quick in replacing the sacked officials.
The management of the five banks was removed on the basis of the outcome of the audit concluded by the CBN early August. The covering ten banks of which five comprising First Bank of Nigeria plc, United Bank of Africa Plc, GT Bank Plc, Diamond Bank Plc and Sterling Bank Plc were certified fit.
The parameter on which the examination of the banks record based on is capital adequacy, liquidity, solvency and corporate governances.
Also on the advice of the CBN solicitors, the recent audit process of the respective Chief Executive Officers of the fraud banks were forced to go through the reports arising from the audit and give adequate responses.
Four of the Chief Executives have now appeared in the court charged with fraud.
Governor Lamido Sansui told the stockbrokers that the result of an audit of the country’s remaining 14 banks would be announced in early October. He added that they will appear in better health than the already examined.
The Central Bank of Nigeria said that five institutions rescued in August will run as going concerns until new investors can be found to recapitalize them
Governor Lamido Sansui added that the government has no intention of nationalizing any of the banks.
In the tenure of the former CBN Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Bank PHB and Apex bank had tried to secure N50 billion forbearance, but the request have been declined by CBN insisting to both the banks to clear its due diligence before acquiring Spring Bank.
Also the country’s Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) said nearly $300m of bad debt has been recovered, but the billions are still outstanding.
The salvage banks are Equitorial Trust, Bank PHB, Spring Bank and Wema Bank has been given 200bn naira ($ 1.37bn) in loans and support. After an audit of their books, the Central Bank said the banks are considered to be in crucial condition.
Central Bank of Nigeria’s Governor Lamido Sansui has been scrutinizing the 24 banks and seeks to clean up the system. Five of the banks are not in the clear situation and have capital inadequacy issues.
The CBN Governor Lamido Sansui wasted no time in sacking the CEOs of the affected banks, amongst them two time winner of the African Businesswoman of the year-Cecilia Ibru of Oceanic Bank and also sealing off their premises with the armed police. The Current Governor of Nigeria is quick in replacing the sacked officials.
The management of the five banks was removed on the basis of the outcome of the audit concluded by the CBN early August. The covering ten banks of which five comprising First Bank of Nigeria plc, United Bank of Africa Plc, GT Bank Plc, Diamond Bank Plc and Sterling Bank Plc were certified fit.
The parameter on which the examination of the banks record based on is capital adequacy, liquidity, solvency and corporate governances.
Also on the advice of the CBN solicitors, the recent audit process of the respective Chief Executive Officers of the fraud banks were forced to go through the reports arising from the audit and give adequate responses.
Four of the Chief Executives have now appeared in the court charged with fraud.
Governor Lamido Sansui told the stockbrokers that the result of an audit of the country’s remaining 14 banks would be announced in early October. He added that they will appear in better health than the already examined.
The Central Bank of Nigeria said that five institutions rescued in August will run as going concerns until new investors can be found to recapitalize them
Governor Lamido Sansui added that the government has no intention of nationalizing any of the banks.
In the tenure of the former CBN Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Bank PHB and Apex bank had tried to secure N50 billion forbearance, but the request have been declined by CBN insisting to both the banks to clear its due diligence before acquiring Spring Bank.
Also the country’s Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) said nearly $300m of bad debt has been recovered, but the billions are still outstanding.
Telecom Industry in Nigeria catches the attention of $18bn investment
Telecom Industry in Nigeria raised over by US $18 billion in the last eight years due to regulate support and to remove government regulatory control from the telecom industry.
Engr. Ernest Ndukwe, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Communications Commission said that the country is keen on attracting more investments so as to expand the needed services in the areas of Internet and Broadband services across the country.
He further added that Nigerian government is welcoming the private sector for chipping into the industry, pays generously to keep in mind the current index of the telecom sector.
Nigeria relatively a large country, which is giving liberty to budding investors and also the existing ones and that the nation is strong-minded to provide entirely linked with economic and exceptional services.
Engr. Ernest Ndukwe considered that the decision of the Nigerian government to liberalize was remarkable and also by point to show the current 68 million active subscriber lines to be recorded in the industry over eight years. He also added that the Nigeria telecom industry has enlightened as a revolution.
He further added that the decision taken by Nigeria to execute an unbiased guideline has resulted in investments in both the GSM and CDMA based services and made varied services accessible in Nigeria with the investors energetically looking up the services from various points thus giving choices to the Nigerian customer.
At present Nigeria is doing great in wireless services delivery, not just in the mobile sector but also in the fixed wireless service.
In spite of the success being witnessed in the mobile and wireless sector in Nigeria, the county is putting their feet ahead to improve connectivity through programmes like the Wire Nigeria Initiative, WIN, to make sure that Nigeria is fully connected with optical fibre cable and an initiative said to have become very booming and also the operators have made extensive inroad in connecting several cities across the country with fibre cable facilities.
He further added that Nigeria is changing its prominence from licensing operators to monitoring and improving quality of services and attending to the needs of the consumer. Also Nigeria is trying to focus on the issues of quality of service and affordability with the dynamics of the market.
Engr. Ernest Ndukwe, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Communications Commission said that the country is keen on attracting more investments so as to expand the needed services in the areas of Internet and Broadband services across the country.
He further added that Nigerian government is welcoming the private sector for chipping into the industry, pays generously to keep in mind the current index of the telecom sector.
Nigeria relatively a large country, which is giving liberty to budding investors and also the existing ones and that the nation is strong-minded to provide entirely linked with economic and exceptional services.
Engr. Ernest Ndukwe considered that the decision of the Nigerian government to liberalize was remarkable and also by point to show the current 68 million active subscriber lines to be recorded in the industry over eight years. He also added that the Nigeria telecom industry has enlightened as a revolution.
He further added that the decision taken by Nigeria to execute an unbiased guideline has resulted in investments in both the GSM and CDMA based services and made varied services accessible in Nigeria with the investors energetically looking up the services from various points thus giving choices to the Nigerian customer.
At present Nigeria is doing great in wireless services delivery, not just in the mobile sector but also in the fixed wireless service.
In spite of the success being witnessed in the mobile and wireless sector in Nigeria, the county is putting their feet ahead to improve connectivity through programmes like the Wire Nigeria Initiative, WIN, to make sure that Nigeria is fully connected with optical fibre cable and an initiative said to have become very booming and also the operators have made extensive inroad in connecting several cities across the country with fibre cable facilities.
He further added that Nigeria is changing its prominence from licensing operators to monitoring and improving quality of services and attending to the needs of the consumer. Also Nigeria is trying to focus on the issues of quality of service and affordability with the dynamics of the market.
Flower Industry at a Boom in African countries generating huge business
The Flower Industry in Africa mainly in Kenya and Ethiopia is the fastest growing sector of the economy of Africa. It ranks fourth in significance to the nation’s export table after tea, coffee and tourism.
Africa’s flower business flourishing at a very high rate, especially on occasions such as Christmas, Mothers day, Fathers day and Valentine day. Flower Industry in Africa generating huge business and top on the list being Kenya and other countries includes Zimbabwe, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenya’s involvement in flower trade had its beginning soon after the end of Second World War where it was started by retired British army officers on a small-scale. Kenya is not only the leading flower exporter in Africa but has also caught up with Israel and Colombia being one of the fastest growing international flower production regions.
The Flower business in Kenya is gifted and one of the promising sectors in Africa in terms of foreign exchange earnings and employment creation. This business employs approximately 50,000 people in Kenya and Uganda to earn their livelihood. Women in Africa especially gained momentum from supplying between 65-75 percent of the total labor force.
African countries has an advanced prospective for flower production which should be extended by Africans themselves. It also has good climatic conditions encouraging for growing flowers round the year in which India is short of.
The growth rate of the flower industry in Ethiopia is also increasing incredibly due to their agro-climatic conditions, business friendly environment and also the strong government support.
Ethiopia exports around 70 tons of flowers daily and employs approximately around 30,000 people out of the population. Because of the boom in the flower business in Ethiopia, it is even believed that one day flower business could overtake coffee.
The major reason of the India companies still in existence because India has improved the quality of their flowers.
All those flower producers who are interested in exporting flower from Africa to India, it falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Affairs.
Africa’s flower business flourishing at a very high rate, especially on occasions such as Christmas, Mothers day, Fathers day and Valentine day. Flower Industry in Africa generating huge business and top on the list being Kenya and other countries includes Zimbabwe, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenya’s involvement in flower trade had its beginning soon after the end of Second World War where it was started by retired British army officers on a small-scale. Kenya is not only the leading flower exporter in Africa but has also caught up with Israel and Colombia being one of the fastest growing international flower production regions.
The Flower business in Kenya is gifted and one of the promising sectors in Africa in terms of foreign exchange earnings and employment creation. This business employs approximately 50,000 people in Kenya and Uganda to earn their livelihood. Women in Africa especially gained momentum from supplying between 65-75 percent of the total labor force.
African countries has an advanced prospective for flower production which should be extended by Africans themselves. It also has good climatic conditions encouraging for growing flowers round the year in which India is short of.
The growth rate of the flower industry in Ethiopia is also increasing incredibly due to their agro-climatic conditions, business friendly environment and also the strong government support.
Ethiopia exports around 70 tons of flowers daily and employs approximately around 30,000 people out of the population. Because of the boom in the flower business in Ethiopia, it is even believed that one day flower business could overtake coffee.
The major reason of the India companies still in existence because India has improved the quality of their flowers.
All those flower producers who are interested in exporting flower from Africa to India, it falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Affairs.
Nigeria: Enjoy Sights of a Lifetime
Nigeria is located in the West Africa and shares land borders with Republic of Benin in the west and Chad and Cameroon in the East. It is officially called as Federal Republic of Nigeria with a land mass of over 356,000 square miles. Nigeria has amazing natural sites with tropical coconuts, mangrove and other seaside vegetation for vacationers and visitors to enjoy the Atlantic.
The history of Nigeria signifies the remarkable incidents that changed and redefined the various aspects of the country. Nigeria art & culture gives a sight of prevalent stone carvings, potteries, different forms of glass work and wood carvings.
The country is appreciable in art, dance, language, literature and music. The major aspect of the Nigerian’s art and culture lies in the insight from the rural traditional folk heritage of the region.
Art & Culture
Nigeria art and culture is well demonstrated with the brass and bronze work of Igbo Ukwu, in Enugu State. The grass weaving is moreover seen in northern parts of Nigeria because there is abundant amount of grass seen, craftsmen and women make beautiful colored grass baskets, fans, tables and floor mats to catch the attention of the tourists.
The places like Benin and Akwa in Nigeria accredited for its wood and ivory carving making figures for shrines, portraiture and masks. Many of the figures made by the carvers are preserved in the Nigeria’s museum. Also the ivory carvings have for many years in Nigeria. These carvings are also used as paper knives, earrings, necklaces, bangles and also the miniature of décor.
Apart from such crafts as bronze casting, wood and ivory carving and weaving, a form of artistic expression that has quietly gained stronghold but has not been given its due recognition in Nigeria in painting. The two groups of rock painting in Kano and Bauchi are the most important so far originated in the country.
The Heritage of Nigeria
The heritage of Nigeria has its vibrant cultural historical background. In fact it provides an astounding glance of the traditional Nigerian Lifestyle and its different aspects well maintained monuments. The City walls and moats are in the Southern Nigeria and its is the most extraordinary walls but unfortunately in the past few years it has been the victim of extensive soil excavation used as a source of building materials.
Nigeria is a country with extravagant sights, a widest range of flora and fauna. The place is sanctified with sensation of nature that flourished in the land. Nature has also gifted Nigeria with several natural resources.
The urbane nightlife of Nigeria magnetizes tourists from different parts of the world. The renowned spots of Nigeria offer delicious multi-cuisine food along with traditional Nigerian dishes.
The history of Nigeria signifies the remarkable incidents that changed and redefined the various aspects of the country. Nigeria art & culture gives a sight of prevalent stone carvings, potteries, different forms of glass work and wood carvings.
The country is appreciable in art, dance, language, literature and music. The major aspect of the Nigerian’s art and culture lies in the insight from the rural traditional folk heritage of the region.
Art & Culture
Nigeria art and culture is well demonstrated with the brass and bronze work of Igbo Ukwu, in Enugu State. The grass weaving is moreover seen in northern parts of Nigeria because there is abundant amount of grass seen, craftsmen and women make beautiful colored grass baskets, fans, tables and floor mats to catch the attention of the tourists.
The places like Benin and Akwa in Nigeria accredited for its wood and ivory carving making figures for shrines, portraiture and masks. Many of the figures made by the carvers are preserved in the Nigeria’s museum. Also the ivory carvings have for many years in Nigeria. These carvings are also used as paper knives, earrings, necklaces, bangles and also the miniature of décor.
Apart from such crafts as bronze casting, wood and ivory carving and weaving, a form of artistic expression that has quietly gained stronghold but has not been given its due recognition in Nigeria in painting. The two groups of rock painting in Kano and Bauchi are the most important so far originated in the country.
The Heritage of Nigeria
The heritage of Nigeria has its vibrant cultural historical background. In fact it provides an astounding glance of the traditional Nigerian Lifestyle and its different aspects well maintained monuments. The City walls and moats are in the Southern Nigeria and its is the most extraordinary walls but unfortunately in the past few years it has been the victim of extensive soil excavation used as a source of building materials.
Nigeria is a country with extravagant sights, a widest range of flora and fauna. The place is sanctified with sensation of nature that flourished in the land. Nature has also gifted Nigeria with several natural resources.
The urbane nightlife of Nigeria magnetizes tourists from different parts of the world. The renowned spots of Nigeria offer delicious multi-cuisine food along with traditional Nigerian dishes.
WELLNESS JOURNEY ACROSS THE BORDERS
Being healthy has its rewards in life. Life is much more than merely pursuing the norms of the society but also trying to have a good health. India not only has the expertise medical expertise but also costs a fraction of what it costs in western countries. Even tele-consultancy is available for expert opinion and transfer facilities for the treatment. There is a growing need for African countries to identify this fact the treatment cost as there is overpriced and the facilities not available.
Medical Tourism in India is a developing concept whereby people from world over visit India for their medical and spiritual needs. Most common treatments are cardiac surgery, joint and keyhole surgery, cosmetic surgery and dental care. The reason for India being a favorable destination is because of its infrastructure and technology in which is in par with those in USA, UK and Europe.
India has some of the best hospitals and treatment centers in the world with facilities matching International Standards. Since it is also one of the most favorable tourist destinations in the world, treatment combines with tourism has come into effect, from which the concept of Medical Tourism is derived.
According to Indian Ministry of Tourism, India’s healthcare tourism market is growing by 25% annually and is expected to become a $2 billion-a-year business opportunity by 2012 in India. India has specialized state-of-the-art hospitals and treatment centers, global healthcare quality standards, competent doctors, skilled nurses and paramedical staff, access to the most modern medical technology, affordable medical treatment, immediate appointment with doctors, easy access to hospital for emergency treatment, Feel at home atmosphere to the medical tourists and patients, holistic treatment and alternative medical therapies like ayurveda, naturopathy, yoga & meditation also available.
India is also the birthplace of Ayurveda and Yoga, have always left with a mystical recollection. Recent trends clearly indicate the acceptance of masses towards naturopathy, yoga & ayurveda treatments for their unmatched benefits as regards cost and health. Alternative treatments ensure positive health, longevity and happiness with supplementing the natural quality of Body, Mind & Spirit. Ayurveda operates on the precept that various materials of vegetable, animal and mineral origin have some medicinal value. Ayurveda treats all types of illness with special emphasis on stress, health and Longevity and Spiritual Healing.
We at Heal & Bliss have hearty endeavors can take you from good health to a blissful living, from advanced surgery to yoga, all in one trip. You just name it, we have all it here.
Heal & bliss aspire patients from Worldwide to provide medical healthcare and also the patients gets eminent doctors and specialist healthcare consultants to give the exceptional treatment. It is a Personalized Healthcare Facilitator for facilitating International & National patients in India, whose ailments are not adequately treated in their place of stay, as state-of-the-art medical services are presently not available in their natives.
Our Primary aim is to provide unparalleled highest standard of quality medical treatment, state-of-the-art, Health and Medical care services, which are cost effective as well as highly specialized, by providing world class healthcare and Medical Tourism facilities.
The team of professionals at Heal & Bliss with worldwide existence in the field of Healthcare work round the clock to provide the best of the services.
Heal & Bliss gives the patient pleasing arrangement from the arrival till the departure from India. Specialist Consultants are listed on our Medical Advisory Board who study and suggest the best treatment to the patient on a case-to-case basis. Estimated costs of treatment, stay & facilitation are provided to the patients before their travel itineraries are made and Medical visas through the Indian High Commissions are co-ordinated. In addition to that before the arrival of the patient, all reports are received and discussed with the assigned doctor to decide the line of treatment to be followed and appointments with them are fixed without waiting lists. Moreover we provide translators to keep away from the verbal communication barrier and the entire patient’s personal and treatment details kept off the record.
Furthermore we intend to give a Healthcare Facilitator as a mediator between the patient and hospitals to provide exceptional treatment to the patients in India and acts as an interface to medical professionals.
Besides that, in Africa we have our Nodal centers in various countries such as Ghana, Zambia, Sudan, South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda and Oman and are looking to set-up more centers in African countries and have specialist Consultants to communicate to the people in Africa about our services at Heal & Bliss.
We also have specialized doctors to provide possible and optimum medical services to the patients. Moreover we have panel of super specialist hospitals of Delhi such as Apollo Group Of Hospitals, Max Group of Hospitals, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, Centre for Sight (A specialist Eye Care Entre), Fortis Escorts Healthcare Limited, Pushpanjali Crosslay Hospital, Sunderlal Jain Hospital and Indian Spinal Injuries Centre.
“Heal & Bliss provided me with the best of its services which were beyond my expectations and aim to give me full time warden who was always there for my help”, said Abed Nego Nyampong, patient from Ghana visited India for his Eye Treatment.
He further added that he will recommend Heal & Bliss to his friends and relatives in Africa.
“The African countries are facing major teenage Obstetric and gynecological problems including sexual health issues, abortion, cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV”, said Dr. Sunita Varma, Consultant Co-ordinator, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Max Hospital Pitampura.
She also added that the treatment cost in India is quite economic as compared to western countries.
* List of the surgeries for which Heal & Bliss provides treatment
Transplant Surgeries
• Bone Marrow
• Kidney
• Liver
• Stem Cell
Cardiac Procedures
• Cardiac Bypass Surgery
• Angiography/Angioplasty
• Valve Replacement
Orthopedic & Spine Surgeries
• Keyhole Endoscopic Spine Surgeries
• Hip Resurfacing
• Knee, Hip & Shoulder Replacement
• Arthroscopic Surgery
Breast Surgery & Cosmetic Surgery
Obstetric and Gynecological Procedures
• Assisted reproductive technique for infertility
• Laproscopic hysterectomy/ Myomectomy for fibroids
• Vaginal surgery for prolapse
• Gynae Endoscopy-Hysteroscopy and many more
Heal & bliss would be pleased to help you. You may revert back to us through calls, letters or emails. For FAQ’S please see the website www.healnbliss.com. You could also contact our corporate office at 91-11-47514751.
Medical Tourism in India is a developing concept whereby people from world over visit India for their medical and spiritual needs. Most common treatments are cardiac surgery, joint and keyhole surgery, cosmetic surgery and dental care. The reason for India being a favorable destination is because of its infrastructure and technology in which is in par with those in USA, UK and Europe.
India has some of the best hospitals and treatment centers in the world with facilities matching International Standards. Since it is also one of the most favorable tourist destinations in the world, treatment combines with tourism has come into effect, from which the concept of Medical Tourism is derived.
According to Indian Ministry of Tourism, India’s healthcare tourism market is growing by 25% annually and is expected to become a $2 billion-a-year business opportunity by 2012 in India. India has specialized state-of-the-art hospitals and treatment centers, global healthcare quality standards, competent doctors, skilled nurses and paramedical staff, access to the most modern medical technology, affordable medical treatment, immediate appointment with doctors, easy access to hospital for emergency treatment, Feel at home atmosphere to the medical tourists and patients, holistic treatment and alternative medical therapies like ayurveda, naturopathy, yoga & meditation also available.
India is also the birthplace of Ayurveda and Yoga, have always left with a mystical recollection. Recent trends clearly indicate the acceptance of masses towards naturopathy, yoga & ayurveda treatments for their unmatched benefits as regards cost and health. Alternative treatments ensure positive health, longevity and happiness with supplementing the natural quality of Body, Mind & Spirit. Ayurveda operates on the precept that various materials of vegetable, animal and mineral origin have some medicinal value. Ayurveda treats all types of illness with special emphasis on stress, health and Longevity and Spiritual Healing.
We at Heal & Bliss have hearty endeavors can take you from good health to a blissful living, from advanced surgery to yoga, all in one trip. You just name it, we have all it here.
Heal & bliss aspire patients from Worldwide to provide medical healthcare and also the patients gets eminent doctors and specialist healthcare consultants to give the exceptional treatment. It is a Personalized Healthcare Facilitator for facilitating International & National patients in India, whose ailments are not adequately treated in their place of stay, as state-of-the-art medical services are presently not available in their natives.
Our Primary aim is to provide unparalleled highest standard of quality medical treatment, state-of-the-art, Health and Medical care services, which are cost effective as well as highly specialized, by providing world class healthcare and Medical Tourism facilities.
The team of professionals at Heal & Bliss with worldwide existence in the field of Healthcare work round the clock to provide the best of the services.
Heal & Bliss gives the patient pleasing arrangement from the arrival till the departure from India. Specialist Consultants are listed on our Medical Advisory Board who study and suggest the best treatment to the patient on a case-to-case basis. Estimated costs of treatment, stay & facilitation are provided to the patients before their travel itineraries are made and Medical visas through the Indian High Commissions are co-ordinated. In addition to that before the arrival of the patient, all reports are received and discussed with the assigned doctor to decide the line of treatment to be followed and appointments with them are fixed without waiting lists. Moreover we provide translators to keep away from the verbal communication barrier and the entire patient’s personal and treatment details kept off the record.
Furthermore we intend to give a Healthcare Facilitator as a mediator between the patient and hospitals to provide exceptional treatment to the patients in India and acts as an interface to medical professionals.
Besides that, in Africa we have our Nodal centers in various countries such as Ghana, Zambia, Sudan, South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda and Oman and are looking to set-up more centers in African countries and have specialist Consultants to communicate to the people in Africa about our services at Heal & Bliss.
We also have specialized doctors to provide possible and optimum medical services to the patients. Moreover we have panel of super specialist hospitals of Delhi such as Apollo Group Of Hospitals, Max Group of Hospitals, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, Centre for Sight (A specialist Eye Care Entre), Fortis Escorts Healthcare Limited, Pushpanjali Crosslay Hospital, Sunderlal Jain Hospital and Indian Spinal Injuries Centre.
“Heal & Bliss provided me with the best of its services which were beyond my expectations and aim to give me full time warden who was always there for my help”, said Abed Nego Nyampong, patient from Ghana visited India for his Eye Treatment.
He further added that he will recommend Heal & Bliss to his friends and relatives in Africa.
“The African countries are facing major teenage Obstetric and gynecological problems including sexual health issues, abortion, cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV”, said Dr. Sunita Varma, Consultant Co-ordinator, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Max Hospital Pitampura.
She also added that the treatment cost in India is quite economic as compared to western countries.
* List of the surgeries for which Heal & Bliss provides treatment
Transplant Surgeries
• Bone Marrow
• Kidney
• Liver
• Stem Cell
Cardiac Procedures
• Cardiac Bypass Surgery
• Angiography/Angioplasty
• Valve Replacement
Orthopedic & Spine Surgeries
• Keyhole Endoscopic Spine Surgeries
• Hip Resurfacing
• Knee, Hip & Shoulder Replacement
• Arthroscopic Surgery
Breast Surgery & Cosmetic Surgery
Obstetric and Gynecological Procedures
• Assisted reproductive technique for infertility
• Laproscopic hysterectomy/ Myomectomy for fibroids
• Vaginal surgery for prolapse
• Gynae Endoscopy-Hysteroscopy and many more
Heal & bliss would be pleased to help you. You may revert back to us through calls, letters or emails. For FAQ’S please see the website www.healnbliss.com. You could also contact our corporate office at 91-11-47514751.
Algeria: The wise getaway
If there is a country that greatly challenges the mind's eye and offered varied opportunities for music and tourism. Algeria is the one place which tenders an array of beautiful spots to possible tourists and also the prospective investors.
The place has the seaside view, all along the Algerian coast, the mountains, the archaeological sites, the prehistoric parks of the Tassili and the Hoggar which has been classified as world treasure by the UNESCO.
The capital of Algeria is EL Djazair which is surrounded by hills and portrayed by two colors, the blue of the sea and the green of its gardens. The meaning of El Djazair signifies ‘the islands’ and also looks like a crown of a contemporary buildings, classy palaces, proud fortress and flawless mosques which add to the beauty of the place.
The city also named as Casbah, the Old city with narrow and twisted streets. It built in Ottoman times and the city is such a web even the natives of the place admit to get lost at times.
The city has an extravagant bay with long sand beaches like Sidi-Frej, Club des pins, Zeralda, Tipaza beach with its beautiful Roman ruins with the footprints of Roman occupation in 146 BC. It also has wide variety of land ranging from snow-white mountain forests to Sahara sand dunes and gives plethora of excitement for sport and leisure activities ranging from Skiing in mountains and in the deserts of Sahara.
The music of Algeria is pure of its tradition and culture and also symbolizes the people with a harmony of stunning voice. A folk music called Sha-bii is broadly famous in which the words are poetic in nature which depicts the everyday life of Algeria. The renowned performers of the Algerian music are El Hajj Muhammed El Anka, Amour Abdenour, Boudjenaa Agraw, Abdou and Algerian Vocalist Khaled and many more.
El Hajj Muhammed El Anka is one of the most creative songwriter and taught many generations of Algeria. He has written over 350 songs and record around 130 songs. Today his music is still prevalent and played and also his swing towards popular culture is as strong as forever.
Amour Abdenour is an Algerian Kabyle singer composer and musician. Boudjenaa Agraw is a key artist of modern Algerian Kabyle music in 1970 and 1980s. Abdou is a well-known live artist and have highly emotional voice in Algeria. He is also known as ‘The Boy George of rai music.
Today there are hundreds of artists and musicians in Algeria who inspire their styles with astoundingly incredible music and can be heard across the world. Within the African community this is the music of choice and people from around the globe enjoy the popularity of the excellent musicianship in Algeria.
Follow and listen the different kind of exclusive and eternal music of Algeria and express the music with full of hope, love and serenity.
The place has the seaside view, all along the Algerian coast, the mountains, the archaeological sites, the prehistoric parks of the Tassili and the Hoggar which has been classified as world treasure by the UNESCO.
The capital of Algeria is EL Djazair which is surrounded by hills and portrayed by two colors, the blue of the sea and the green of its gardens. The meaning of El Djazair signifies ‘the islands’ and also looks like a crown of a contemporary buildings, classy palaces, proud fortress and flawless mosques which add to the beauty of the place.
The city also named as Casbah, the Old city with narrow and twisted streets. It built in Ottoman times and the city is such a web even the natives of the place admit to get lost at times.
The city has an extravagant bay with long sand beaches like Sidi-Frej, Club des pins, Zeralda, Tipaza beach with its beautiful Roman ruins with the footprints of Roman occupation in 146 BC. It also has wide variety of land ranging from snow-white mountain forests to Sahara sand dunes and gives plethora of excitement for sport and leisure activities ranging from Skiing in mountains and in the deserts of Sahara.
The music of Algeria is pure of its tradition and culture and also symbolizes the people with a harmony of stunning voice. A folk music called Sha-bii is broadly famous in which the words are poetic in nature which depicts the everyday life of Algeria. The renowned performers of the Algerian music are El Hajj Muhammed El Anka, Amour Abdenour, Boudjenaa Agraw, Abdou and Algerian Vocalist Khaled and many more.
El Hajj Muhammed El Anka is one of the most creative songwriter and taught many generations of Algeria. He has written over 350 songs and record around 130 songs. Today his music is still prevalent and played and also his swing towards popular culture is as strong as forever.
Amour Abdenour is an Algerian Kabyle singer composer and musician. Boudjenaa Agraw is a key artist of modern Algerian Kabyle music in 1970 and 1980s. Abdou is a well-known live artist and have highly emotional voice in Algeria. He is also known as ‘The Boy George of rai music.
Today there are hundreds of artists and musicians in Algeria who inspire their styles with astoundingly incredible music and can be heard across the world. Within the African community this is the music of choice and people from around the globe enjoy the popularity of the excellent musicianship in Algeria.
Follow and listen the different kind of exclusive and eternal music of Algeria and express the music with full of hope, love and serenity.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Selfishness
I can't understand why some people can be so selfish with everything. They won't help anyone but their selves and have no regard for anyone or anything. They just simply love themselves and no respect for others.
They start any relationship because they find that being with the person they like gives them pleasure, a sense of security, a feeling that you are capable of offering love and being loved. I guess human beings love themselves the most hence fall in love with a person to make themselves happy.
Selfishness is to have a chief concern for ones own interest. To say we have a chief concern for ones own interest especially with disregard to others it to contradict the meaning. Our dependency on others is self evident and to show disregard for others is not in ones best interest.
Selfishness is a virtue and not a sin, it is the very point in having a point of view. If you don't look out for your own interests then who will?
Not all human beings are selfish.The degree of selfishness can depend on the way we were nurtured.How were brought up and what we were taught since young will influence what we are today.Some of us would prefer to stay in our comfort zone,refusing to open up to others.
They start any relationship because they find that being with the person they like gives them pleasure, a sense of security, a feeling that you are capable of offering love and being loved. I guess human beings love themselves the most hence fall in love with a person to make themselves happy.
Selfishness is to have a chief concern for ones own interest. To say we have a chief concern for ones own interest especially with disregard to others it to contradict the meaning. Our dependency on others is self evident and to show disregard for others is not in ones best interest.
Selfishness is a virtue and not a sin, it is the very point in having a point of view. If you don't look out for your own interests then who will?
Not all human beings are selfish.The degree of selfishness can depend on the way we were nurtured.How were brought up and what we were taught since young will influence what we are today.Some of us would prefer to stay in our comfort zone,refusing to open up to others.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Lack of Awareness on the concerning rules by both the commuters and conductors
Out of the fifty commuters in the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses twenty five take daily bus passes issued by the conductors.
Even the information on the backside of the daily passes shows that the person purchasing the pass should sign on it. The conductors are supposed to check the passes for signature and if any passes are found without signature, the person has to be fined.
"There is a rule and the bus conductors has to check the date and month and should tell the commuter to sign on it," said Vishwanath, Chief Traffic Manager (Operations).
He added that if the commuter caught with an unsigned pass then the case been registered against the conductor and the commuter both. The fine also gets raised ten times more than the cost of one daily pass.
However most of the conductor's don't follow this rule neither the most of the commuters.
"I had no idea about the subsistence of such a rule that the commuter has to sign and checked it by the conductor," Rajashree, a commuter who purchases the daily pass regularly.
I truly don't have any kind of awareness of this rule. But also we don't carry a pen with us all the time so how we suppose to sign at that point of time," said Naveen, another commuter.
"I have been traveling in BMTC bus from back twenty years and don't know about this rule, I am surprised to know about it," Mamta, another commuter.
She further added if the transport department doesn't want to pursue their own rules then why they make the rules for the citizens.
The conductors of the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) don't follow their own rules.
"I am aware of this rule but no other conductor follows it then why should I bother myself," said Hanumanth Raju, a bus conductor.
He added that no authorities of Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) have created trouble for him.
"It would be hard to check each pass for signatures and charge fines to them," said Uresh
Another Conductor
He added that in case of not signing the bus passes the fine is ten times higher as three hundred rupees.
He further added that it should not reasonable on the commuter's part as they are mainly unaware of the rule and if the tickets checking agents come in the bus they too usually checks for those who don't buy the tickets not for the unsigned daily bus passes. Even the conductors are not correctly educated in this respect
"We will peek into this matter quickly, or else different people will use the similar pass," said Vishwanath, Chief Traffic Manager (operations).
Even the information on the backside of the daily passes shows that the person purchasing the pass should sign on it. The conductors are supposed to check the passes for signature and if any passes are found without signature, the person has to be fined.
"There is a rule and the bus conductors has to check the date and month and should tell the commuter to sign on it," said Vishwanath, Chief Traffic Manager (Operations).
He added that if the commuter caught with an unsigned pass then the case been registered against the conductor and the commuter both. The fine also gets raised ten times more than the cost of one daily pass.
However most of the conductor's don't follow this rule neither the most of the commuters.
"I had no idea about the subsistence of such a rule that the commuter has to sign and checked it by the conductor," Rajashree, a commuter who purchases the daily pass regularly.
I truly don't have any kind of awareness of this rule. But also we don't carry a pen with us all the time so how we suppose to sign at that point of time," said Naveen, another commuter.
"I have been traveling in BMTC bus from back twenty years and don't know about this rule, I am surprised to know about it," Mamta, another commuter.
She further added if the transport department doesn't want to pursue their own rules then why they make the rules for the citizens.
The conductors of the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) don't follow their own rules.
"I am aware of this rule but no other conductor follows it then why should I bother myself," said Hanumanth Raju, a bus conductor.
He added that no authorities of Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) have created trouble for him.
"It would be hard to check each pass for signatures and charge fines to them," said Uresh
Another Conductor
He added that in case of not signing the bus passes the fine is ten times higher as three hundred rupees.
He further added that it should not reasonable on the commuter's part as they are mainly unaware of the rule and if the tickets checking agents come in the bus they too usually checks for those who don't buy the tickets not for the unsigned daily bus passes. Even the conductors are not correctly educated in this respect
"We will peek into this matter quickly, or else different people will use the similar pass," said Vishwanath, Chief Traffic Manager (operations).
Menace of Adulteration
The nature, type, and quality and quantity of food play an important role in the maintenance of health and well being of all individuals. Food safety is an essential public health issue for all consumers.
However many consumers in India and other developing countries, are often exposed to willful adulteration o their food stock and supply. Adulteration of milk, spices, edible oils and even alcohol and beverages and the use of colors to mask product quality to cheat the consumer are quite common. This leads to health hazards and financial losses for consumer, families, communities and countries.
Most branded products in India have become a victim of this dangerous and prevailing disease of adulteration.
Nowadays, fast food is a fashion, even to middle-income group families. The ingredients of fast food may affect the health of the users. Nobody bothers to check whether it is adulterated food or not. A system should be formed to find out the offender, so that the health of the public is not affected.
Food adulteration is a crime, which cannot be left out without any penalty to those who are behind it. Food adulteration is slow poisoning and the innocent people are dying slowly. The health hazard on this count has not received the attention it merits, as the authorities are ill equipped to tackle the situation or remain reluctant to take action against the culprits who pay them on the sly.
The threat posed by contaminated foodstuff is formidable, indeed. Chemicals used for longer shelf life of food items, to enhance their taste and looks are harmful to health. Our health depends on the kind of food we consume. As such, contaminated food items imperil our life. Consumers should refrain from buying such items and turn to fresh food items made locally.
In wide-ranging terms, a family spends nearly fifty percent of its income on food. Yet, the diet of many of us is no balanced in nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins, minerals, which are essential for good health. Due to rising prices many are not in a position to afford good food. Even the food purchased at high cost is often by substances, which are injurious to health.
In the case of vegetables, it would be better if we can cultivate them in the available space, say in sacks placed on the terrace. Shops that sell contaminated food items should be boycotted. When consumers react jointly or in large numbers, the end result will be positive.
"Even Consumers should report cases of adulteration to the authorities and pursue them relentlessly to ensure conviction. If people display greater vigilance and consumer awareness, the menace can be arrested easily" said Rateh- ul-Khan, Food Inspector, Bangalore Mahanagar Palike.
The concerted effort of various Government departments such as Agriculture, Public Health and Civil Supplies with the cooperation of civic bodies and social organisations is necessary. The farmers who produce various food crops should be persuaded to use pesticides and chemical fertilizers judiciously rather than indiscriminately
All food items prepared in factories and other units should be subjected to scientific testing to ascertain quality. There should be stringent checking on food items brought from other States.
"Polluted air is the major cause of global warming which increases children's susceptibility to diseases such as influenza, causes irritation to the respiratory systems and vehicular pollution has become a serious health issue" says Akshay Heblikar, Eco Watch, Centre for Environment and sustainable Development
Yet colors may attract, but they could also repel, once the consumer knows that such colors could be toxic. Take the case of the summer fruit, water melon. Since consumer preference is for ripe, bright red melons, they often ask the fruit vendor to cut a small piece of the fruit and show them the inside color before buying. So sellers have apparently started injecting a red dye into the fruit to give it a bright red shade.
In fact during the hot summer months, it is not just the water melon. Since vegetables tend to dry up quickly, they are also given a coating of different colors to make them look fresh. Ladies finger, peas, capsicum, brinjal are only some of the many vegetables that are given a colored bath or simply given a shiny coat to fool consumers into believing that they are fresh.
Then there are other foods like pulses and spices that get a coating of paint throughout the year, irrespective of the season. Here, the color is meant to give them an attractive shine or to cover up holes left by insects or worms. Arhar dal, for example is often artificially coloured with various yellow dyes. Soak it in water and you will notice the water turning yellow in no time. Many other pulses reveal their true color only when they are put in water. The red variety of 'rajma' for example, often gives out blood red color when put in water. Dried red chillies have also been found to be colored with harmful synthetic dyes.
Food adulteration is punishable under Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954. The act has been amended in 1976 and a person found guilty of adulterating an article of food which is non-injurious is liable to a punishment.
There are simple tests to detect adulteration of food Stuffs. "But it is necessary to have the food analysed scientifically in the food laboratories and only on the basis of reports can merchants be prosecuted" said Manjunathan, Public analyst, Food Laboratory, Bangalore Mahanagar Palike.
Consumers need to be made aware that they are essentially consuming poison instead of food and these actions by the illegal manufacturers are in fact equivalent to committing murder.
However many consumers in India and other developing countries, are often exposed to willful adulteration o their food stock and supply. Adulteration of milk, spices, edible oils and even alcohol and beverages and the use of colors to mask product quality to cheat the consumer are quite common. This leads to health hazards and financial losses for consumer, families, communities and countries.
Most branded products in India have become a victim of this dangerous and prevailing disease of adulteration.
Nowadays, fast food is a fashion, even to middle-income group families. The ingredients of fast food may affect the health of the users. Nobody bothers to check whether it is adulterated food or not. A system should be formed to find out the offender, so that the health of the public is not affected.
Food adulteration is a crime, which cannot be left out without any penalty to those who are behind it. Food adulteration is slow poisoning and the innocent people are dying slowly. The health hazard on this count has not received the attention it merits, as the authorities are ill equipped to tackle the situation or remain reluctant to take action against the culprits who pay them on the sly.
The threat posed by contaminated foodstuff is formidable, indeed. Chemicals used for longer shelf life of food items, to enhance their taste and looks are harmful to health. Our health depends on the kind of food we consume. As such, contaminated food items imperil our life. Consumers should refrain from buying such items and turn to fresh food items made locally.
In wide-ranging terms, a family spends nearly fifty percent of its income on food. Yet, the diet of many of us is no balanced in nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins, minerals, which are essential for good health. Due to rising prices many are not in a position to afford good food. Even the food purchased at high cost is often by substances, which are injurious to health.
In the case of vegetables, it would be better if we can cultivate them in the available space, say in sacks placed on the terrace. Shops that sell contaminated food items should be boycotted. When consumers react jointly or in large numbers, the end result will be positive.
"Even Consumers should report cases of adulteration to the authorities and pursue them relentlessly to ensure conviction. If people display greater vigilance and consumer awareness, the menace can be arrested easily" said Rateh- ul-Khan, Food Inspector, Bangalore Mahanagar Palike.
The concerted effort of various Government departments such as Agriculture, Public Health and Civil Supplies with the cooperation of civic bodies and social organisations is necessary. The farmers who produce various food crops should be persuaded to use pesticides and chemical fertilizers judiciously rather than indiscriminately
All food items prepared in factories and other units should be subjected to scientific testing to ascertain quality. There should be stringent checking on food items brought from other States.
"Polluted air is the major cause of global warming which increases children's susceptibility to diseases such as influenza, causes irritation to the respiratory systems and vehicular pollution has become a serious health issue" says Akshay Heblikar, Eco Watch, Centre for Environment and sustainable Development
Yet colors may attract, but they could also repel, once the consumer knows that such colors could be toxic. Take the case of the summer fruit, water melon. Since consumer preference is for ripe, bright red melons, they often ask the fruit vendor to cut a small piece of the fruit and show them the inside color before buying. So sellers have apparently started injecting a red dye into the fruit to give it a bright red shade.
In fact during the hot summer months, it is not just the water melon. Since vegetables tend to dry up quickly, they are also given a coating of different colors to make them look fresh. Ladies finger, peas, capsicum, brinjal are only some of the many vegetables that are given a colored bath or simply given a shiny coat to fool consumers into believing that they are fresh.
Then there are other foods like pulses and spices that get a coating of paint throughout the year, irrespective of the season. Here, the color is meant to give them an attractive shine or to cover up holes left by insects or worms. Arhar dal, for example is often artificially coloured with various yellow dyes. Soak it in water and you will notice the water turning yellow in no time. Many other pulses reveal their true color only when they are put in water. The red variety of 'rajma' for example, often gives out blood red color when put in water. Dried red chillies have also been found to be colored with harmful synthetic dyes.
Food adulteration is punishable under Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954. The act has been amended in 1976 and a person found guilty of adulterating an article of food which is non-injurious is liable to a punishment.
There are simple tests to detect adulteration of food Stuffs. "But it is necessary to have the food analysed scientifically in the food laboratories and only on the basis of reports can merchants be prosecuted" said Manjunathan, Public analyst, Food Laboratory, Bangalore Mahanagar Palike.
Consumers need to be made aware that they are essentially consuming poison instead of food and these actions by the illegal manufacturers are in fact equivalent to committing murder.
Body Piercing is becoming more than just a trend
Body Piercing is becoming more than just a trend; it has become a culture in Bangalore.
There are traditional beliefs attached to nose and ear piercing. Earlier it was done by hand but now day’s youths can to go to a jeweler, the doctor or to a beauty salon and studios where the piercer will put a gun loaded with the stud against the significant body part and shoot it.
“Ear and Nose piercing has been their in India from decades and it has been done for beauty and aesthetic looks for the ladies and males too,” said Dr Ashok Patil, Physician and Piercing specialist.
He added that the conventional way of piercing has a risk factor and cause allergic reactions, bleeding, pain, bacterial infection, and viral infection and puss formation.
“I brought an ear piercing gadget (gunshot machine) in 1980 and this machine gives no pain, no bleeding and no infection,” said Dr. Patil.
He further added that body piercing is not advisable by Indian Medical Association and if it’s properly performed to the ear and nose, the risks can be minimized. In addition, the sterilized kits to be used to reduce the chances of infection.
“Don’t ever go for unlicensed piercer and always look for a professional ones whom you feel he or she hygienically safe,” said Aradhye Ackshatt, an engineering student.
He added that if piercing makes one feel good about how they look, it’s worth it and piercing can easily be removed if the look isn’t right or the person feels physical and mental discomfort.
He also believes that depending on the piercing and the sensitivity of the body part being pierced, he prefers hand piercing rather than gun.
“Piercing with gun on the upper ear frequently end with longer healing times and the gun was considered and used for piercing the ear lobes only,” said Dr Patil.
“I had an interest in it, I would call it an innate interest that had nothing to do with societal or fashion trends or sexual orientation trends but yes for sure it comes at a price,” said Sandeep Godara, ESPN Sports Channel, Administrator and Human Resource.
“It cost me 50 dollars for my left ear,” he said.
He added that body modification practices exist across cultures and transcend simply aesthetics and indigenous beauty standards. These practices are understood to be universal features of traditional societies, significations of status and belonging.
He also reveals that any kind of procedure which involves contact with blood or bodily fluids requires strict adherence to cross-contamination prevention and piercing guns are usually made with plastic and cannot be sterilized in an autoclave. They wipe it with alcohol or antiseptic in between uses.
“It is not unreasonable to guess that in a two-week training course, the pierces are not being taught about infection control and blood-borne pathogens and a quick wipe with a sterile pad is not effective in removing disease-carrying blood,” he said.
“I have been practicing ear piercing from back 20 years and using gun shot machine to pierce the ears and my customers has no complaint about it,” said Margaret Panthaki, a beautician
She added that the areas that used for piercing at least take a month to heal up without changing the studs.
“I am running this business from back 15 years and perform body, ear, nose and tongue piercing and charge from Rs 50 to 1000 depend upon the piercing,” said Viswanathan, a practitioner from US and UK tattoo and body piercing studio.
He added that we used US and UK products like gunshot machine, studs, and needles for our customers and the age of the customer ranges from 10 to 50 years of age.
“We are in this body piercing market from back one year and import material from US and export in India to the local jewellery shops, hospitals and local markets,” said Biju, a mechanical engineering student.
He added that it is advisable to keep the stud (earning) at least of minimum of three months without changing it and the customers prefer to theses US and UK products not the local brands.
“Nothing comes free, be it body piercing or anything else,” said Rupali Dhiman, SEO copywriter, Icronex Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
“Although I didn’t spend a fortune on my ear piercing in India, but I have couple of friends staying in abroad have spend around 20 to 30 dollars on this,” she said.
She added that I have four piercing in my both ears including tragus piercing in my left ear and all this including accessories cost around Rs 800.
However, the youth, which are exposed to western culture are following the trends otherwise piercing was always rampant among Hindu sadhus, not to mention the womenfolk throughout history.
There are traditional beliefs attached to nose and ear piercing. Earlier it was done by hand but now day’s youths can to go to a jeweler, the doctor or to a beauty salon and studios where the piercer will put a gun loaded with the stud against the significant body part and shoot it.
“Ear and Nose piercing has been their in India from decades and it has been done for beauty and aesthetic looks for the ladies and males too,” said Dr Ashok Patil, Physician and Piercing specialist.
He added that the conventional way of piercing has a risk factor and cause allergic reactions, bleeding, pain, bacterial infection, and viral infection and puss formation.
“I brought an ear piercing gadget (gunshot machine) in 1980 and this machine gives no pain, no bleeding and no infection,” said Dr. Patil.
He further added that body piercing is not advisable by Indian Medical Association and if it’s properly performed to the ear and nose, the risks can be minimized. In addition, the sterilized kits to be used to reduce the chances of infection.
“Don’t ever go for unlicensed piercer and always look for a professional ones whom you feel he or she hygienically safe,” said Aradhye Ackshatt, an engineering student.
He added that if piercing makes one feel good about how they look, it’s worth it and piercing can easily be removed if the look isn’t right or the person feels physical and mental discomfort.
He also believes that depending on the piercing and the sensitivity of the body part being pierced, he prefers hand piercing rather than gun.
“Piercing with gun on the upper ear frequently end with longer healing times and the gun was considered and used for piercing the ear lobes only,” said Dr Patil.
“I had an interest in it, I would call it an innate interest that had nothing to do with societal or fashion trends or sexual orientation trends but yes for sure it comes at a price,” said Sandeep Godara, ESPN Sports Channel, Administrator and Human Resource.
“It cost me 50 dollars for my left ear,” he said.
He added that body modification practices exist across cultures and transcend simply aesthetics and indigenous beauty standards. These practices are understood to be universal features of traditional societies, significations of status and belonging.
He also reveals that any kind of procedure which involves contact with blood or bodily fluids requires strict adherence to cross-contamination prevention and piercing guns are usually made with plastic and cannot be sterilized in an autoclave. They wipe it with alcohol or antiseptic in between uses.
“It is not unreasonable to guess that in a two-week training course, the pierces are not being taught about infection control and blood-borne pathogens and a quick wipe with a sterile pad is not effective in removing disease-carrying blood,” he said.
“I have been practicing ear piercing from back 20 years and using gun shot machine to pierce the ears and my customers has no complaint about it,” said Margaret Panthaki, a beautician
She added that the areas that used for piercing at least take a month to heal up without changing the studs.
“I am running this business from back 15 years and perform body, ear, nose and tongue piercing and charge from Rs 50 to 1000 depend upon the piercing,” said Viswanathan, a practitioner from US and UK tattoo and body piercing studio.
He added that we used US and UK products like gunshot machine, studs, and needles for our customers and the age of the customer ranges from 10 to 50 years of age.
“We are in this body piercing market from back one year and import material from US and export in India to the local jewellery shops, hospitals and local markets,” said Biju, a mechanical engineering student.
He added that it is advisable to keep the stud (earning) at least of minimum of three months without changing it and the customers prefer to theses US and UK products not the local brands.
“Nothing comes free, be it body piercing or anything else,” said Rupali Dhiman, SEO copywriter, Icronex Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
“Although I didn’t spend a fortune on my ear piercing in India, but I have couple of friends staying in abroad have spend around 20 to 30 dollars on this,” she said.
She added that I have four piercing in my both ears including tragus piercing in my left ear and all this including accessories cost around Rs 800.
However, the youth, which are exposed to western culture are following the trends otherwise piercing was always rampant among Hindu sadhus, not to mention the womenfolk throughout history.
Perils of Cycling
Cycling is the most eco-friendly mode of transport in the world but we in India are still stuck in the developing country syndrome. Instead of encouraging them, we actively discourage them and carry up new cars to create more pollution in the city.
BICYCLES MAY be the most popular two-wheeler on India’s roads, but the millions who use these to commute and to transport goods and family in towns and villages certainly don’t wear helmets, jackets or biking gloves to protect themselves, hence the risk increases.
Cycling to work makes more sense for the city’s wealthy - nearly three million vehicles obstruct 500km (300 miles) of Bangalore’s contracted roads, with 1,000 new vehicles added every day.
Bangalore is one of India’s most polluted cities, as air pollution levels are five times higher than permitted limits. Concerns over traffic conditions and the environment, combined with a sedentary lifestyles, we should all unite to promote cycling to work in Bangalore.
The Indian society equates prosperity with bigger vehicles and cycling with the poor. Cyclists are offered no facilities whatsoever in the shape of cycle lanes or bike parks.
“I am riding bicycle for the past 19 years. I find it very easy, comfortable, I need not stand in the traffic for long, though there is risk but I follow the B Trac near Chinnaswamy Stadium,” says Muthappa, a bicycle rider.
Cycling is the most eco-friendly mode of transport in the world but we in India are still stuck in the developing country syndrome. Instead of encouraging them, we actively discourage them and get new cars to create more pollution in the city.
But soon it would be no longer unusual to see perspiring people pedaling to work. While on the one hand people are persuading themselves to embrace vegetarianism, on the other they are speaking out in favour of protecting the environment through cycling. Even ‘Go green’ is a message that most people are now beginning to accept and integrate into their daily routine. Being environment-friendly seems to have become a trend these days.
Five years ago, in Bangalore, Dasarathi, the director of a software products development company, made a potent statement for an alternative mode of daily transport in the choked roads of India’s Silicon Valley. Go Cycle, an umbrella organisation of biking enthusiasts and activists, is looking to lobby corporate sponsors and the local government for amenities for urban cyclists.
Go Cycle is working to convince people, a locality with broad, tree-lined roads, and the Central Business District - including the MG Road and Commercial Street - to turn over unused space for the use of cycle parking.
Traffic is bad in most cities, Bangalore is one of them, and the media has shown great interest in workers who commute by bicycle. These riders report that it takes them far less time on a cycle than in a car, and slightly less or the same amount of time than on a motorcycle.
“It is difficult to built the new tracks for bicyclers, while all the new roads are come under Bangalore Development Authority and I should encourage bicycling as it creates less pollution,” says N Ramesh, In-Chief, Executive Engineer, and Bangalore Mahanagar Palike.
“Today, the 18 km drive into town from my house just outside Bangalore takes about 80 minutes at rush hour. When I was a child, it took 20 minutes. You can see why it’s so tempting to get out of the car and leave that honking, smoking mess behind. I would choose an hour of cycling over an hour of operating a perfectly nice car in first gear and second gear alone,” says Mukesh, a pedestrian.
In Bangalore, it is better to have geared bikes. There are enough ups and downs here that one may not note when in an automobile. But don’t go for 18 gear models. 5-7 gears are more than enough.
A new folding bike named Strida was in a car show here in Bangalore (Deco 2007). This triangular bike seems really attractive with a host of good features.
When you buy a bike, and intend to use it through out the year, buy one with long mudguards. Otherwise you end up spoiling the back of your shirt in rainy season. Even otherwise there is enough cow dung on the roads.
To make cycling interesting, try installing an analog or digital speedometer on your cycle. You can get the digital speedometer V100 (see my review), which is a very good model to use. Battery lasts more than 2 years.
The survey by Bangalore Commute Data articulates that 57 per cent use personal transport - car or two wheelers and 4.4 per cent use BMTC Buses and 14.7 per cents uses bicycle.
Adventurous people will love walking or even cycling in this city but for everyone else it can get quite scary. It’s a common rule in Bangalore that zebra crossings nicely painted on some streets must be ignored under any circumstance. So, don’t expect any vehicle to stop you for crossing the road.
In the beginning, even making it in one piece to the other side of a street is as exciting as jumping off a ten metre high tower at the swimming pool. Everybody is honking; trucks, buses and cars keep passing by while you are in the middle of it.
But on Brigade Road and MG Road life is easier for walkers. There are sidewalks and especially on the weekends you don’t have to do much walking yourself but just go with the flow and let the crowd sweep you from one place to the other.
When you decide on walking and cycling anywhere in Bangalore, just stays calm, ignore the constant honking and before crossing a street remember to look right first.
BICYCLES MAY be the most popular two-wheeler on India’s roads, but the millions who use these to commute and to transport goods and family in towns and villages certainly don’t wear helmets, jackets or biking gloves to protect themselves, hence the risk increases.
Cycling to work makes more sense for the city’s wealthy - nearly three million vehicles obstruct 500km (300 miles) of Bangalore’s contracted roads, with 1,000 new vehicles added every day.
Bangalore is one of India’s most polluted cities, as air pollution levels are five times higher than permitted limits. Concerns over traffic conditions and the environment, combined with a sedentary lifestyles, we should all unite to promote cycling to work in Bangalore.
The Indian society equates prosperity with bigger vehicles and cycling with the poor. Cyclists are offered no facilities whatsoever in the shape of cycle lanes or bike parks.
“I am riding bicycle for the past 19 years. I find it very easy, comfortable, I need not stand in the traffic for long, though there is risk but I follow the B Trac near Chinnaswamy Stadium,” says Muthappa, a bicycle rider.
Cycling is the most eco-friendly mode of transport in the world but we in India are still stuck in the developing country syndrome. Instead of encouraging them, we actively discourage them and get new cars to create more pollution in the city.
But soon it would be no longer unusual to see perspiring people pedaling to work. While on the one hand people are persuading themselves to embrace vegetarianism, on the other they are speaking out in favour of protecting the environment through cycling. Even ‘Go green’ is a message that most people are now beginning to accept and integrate into their daily routine. Being environment-friendly seems to have become a trend these days.
Five years ago, in Bangalore, Dasarathi, the director of a software products development company, made a potent statement for an alternative mode of daily transport in the choked roads of India’s Silicon Valley. Go Cycle, an umbrella organisation of biking enthusiasts and activists, is looking to lobby corporate sponsors and the local government for amenities for urban cyclists.
Go Cycle is working to convince people, a locality with broad, tree-lined roads, and the Central Business District - including the MG Road and Commercial Street - to turn over unused space for the use of cycle parking.
Traffic is bad in most cities, Bangalore is one of them, and the media has shown great interest in workers who commute by bicycle. These riders report that it takes them far less time on a cycle than in a car, and slightly less or the same amount of time than on a motorcycle.
“It is difficult to built the new tracks for bicyclers, while all the new roads are come under Bangalore Development Authority and I should encourage bicycling as it creates less pollution,” says N Ramesh, In-Chief, Executive Engineer, and Bangalore Mahanagar Palike.
“Today, the 18 km drive into town from my house just outside Bangalore takes about 80 minutes at rush hour. When I was a child, it took 20 minutes. You can see why it’s so tempting to get out of the car and leave that honking, smoking mess behind. I would choose an hour of cycling over an hour of operating a perfectly nice car in first gear and second gear alone,” says Mukesh, a pedestrian.
In Bangalore, it is better to have geared bikes. There are enough ups and downs here that one may not note when in an automobile. But don’t go for 18 gear models. 5-7 gears are more than enough.
A new folding bike named Strida was in a car show here in Bangalore (Deco 2007). This triangular bike seems really attractive with a host of good features.
When you buy a bike, and intend to use it through out the year, buy one with long mudguards. Otherwise you end up spoiling the back of your shirt in rainy season. Even otherwise there is enough cow dung on the roads.
To make cycling interesting, try installing an analog or digital speedometer on your cycle. You can get the digital speedometer V100 (see my review), which is a very good model to use. Battery lasts more than 2 years.
The survey by Bangalore Commute Data articulates that 57 per cent use personal transport - car or two wheelers and 4.4 per cent use BMTC Buses and 14.7 per cents uses bicycle.
Adventurous people will love walking or even cycling in this city but for everyone else it can get quite scary. It’s a common rule in Bangalore that zebra crossings nicely painted on some streets must be ignored under any circumstance. So, don’t expect any vehicle to stop you for crossing the road.
In the beginning, even making it in one piece to the other side of a street is as exciting as jumping off a ten metre high tower at the swimming pool. Everybody is honking; trucks, buses and cars keep passing by while you are in the middle of it.
But on Brigade Road and MG Road life is easier for walkers. There are sidewalks and especially on the weekends you don’t have to do much walking yourself but just go with the flow and let the crowd sweep you from one place to the other.
When you decide on walking and cycling anywhere in Bangalore, just stays calm, ignore the constant honking and before crossing a street remember to look right first.
Banned drugs still sold
Nimesulide, Rafecoxib, Analgin are banned drugs, but are still sold in markets without the doctor's prescription. There are a number of Hospitals that sell these drugs, which are have a harmful effect on the body.
NIMESULIDE, RAFECOXIB, Analgin are banned drugs but are still sold in market without the doctor's prescription.
"Nimesulide, the anti-inflammatory drug was being used mostly to treat pain, which affects the muscles and bones and in menstrual cramps," said Dr Nagraj, General Physician. These banned drugs are harmful to heart and liver but continue to be available at several medical stores across Bangalore.
"It is simple to get pills without prescription in any medical shop and I have been using Nimesulide, for a long time," said Avinash, an Engineering Student. Mallya hospital's pharmacy too sells these drugs without prescription. "Nimesulide is available in more than thirty other combinations, all of which are not approved by the drugs controller and are illegal," said Raimaya, a Chemist at Victoria Hospital.
Some of the chemists said they no longer continue to sell the drugs. "We have sent the supply back to the manufacturer," said Raju, a chemist at Mediplus store.
Samson of the Karnataka State Pharmacy Council said that the Policy was last modified in 1994 and was directed towards promoting accelerated growth of the pharmaceutical industry.
NIMESULIDE, RAFECOXIB, Analgin are banned drugs but are still sold in market without the doctor's prescription.
"Nimesulide, the anti-inflammatory drug was being used mostly to treat pain, which affects the muscles and bones and in menstrual cramps," said Dr Nagraj, General Physician. These banned drugs are harmful to heart and liver but continue to be available at several medical stores across Bangalore.
"It is simple to get pills without prescription in any medical shop and I have been using Nimesulide, for a long time," said Avinash, an Engineering Student. Mallya hospital's pharmacy too sells these drugs without prescription. "Nimesulide is available in more than thirty other combinations, all of which are not approved by the drugs controller and are illegal," said Raimaya, a Chemist at Victoria Hospital.
Some of the chemists said they no longer continue to sell the drugs. "We have sent the supply back to the manufacturer," said Raju, a chemist at Mediplus store.
Samson of the Karnataka State Pharmacy Council said that the Policy was last modified in 1994 and was directed towards promoting accelerated growth of the pharmaceutical industry.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Visit to the lake city
Udaipur called as lake City. It feels that you are in quixotic place. The place has its own uniqueness. Udaipur also known as 'The White City' is located 665 km from from Delhi.
It’s in the southern part of Rajasthan, near to Ahmedabad (in Gujarat) than to Jaipur. It has rich heritage and beautiful gardens. Situated nearly 1900 metres above the sea level. It is a part of the Aravalli ranges.
Its beauty is heightening by the presence of mountains that serenade the city from all sides, as well as by some natural and artificial beauties that can’t quite be imagined. The city appropriately derives its name from Maharana Udai Singh who was instrumental in creating it in the year 1559.
In the sandy state of Rajasthan, there are various lakes, a series of canals linking the several artificial lakes of Udaipur have dubbed it the Venice of the East.
The City Palace of Udaipur is the most incredible constructions of the Rajput rulers of Rajasthan. Situated in the heart of the city of Udaipur. The City Palace infuses a sense of admiration in the hearts of its spectators. It is the eminence authentication of Rajput passion for art and architecture.
Maharana Udai Singh of the Sisodia establishes the unique building of the palace soon after he founded the city of Udaipur. Later Maharajas added their own construction in the palace.
The Palace architecture reveals a wonderful mix of the European and Chinese architecture. The gardens inside the palace have an individual allure of their own and create a scenic view for the visitors.
Pichola Lake, the beautiful stretch of water adjoining the two splendid structures the Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir, is the salvation of Udaipur city. The lake was created in the 15th century and widened later and a dam across was also created in that period. It was Maharaja Udai Singh II build up the dam and widened the lake.
Many wonderful palaces, temples, hilly terrains, bathing ghats and many gardens, surrounded the lake. No tourist can miss this peaceful lake, which visits Udaipur.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari or the 'Garden of the Maids of Honor' of Udaipur was previously set-aside for the royal ladies who came here for a leisurely walk. A well planned garden, with broad lawns and shaded walks located on the banks of the Fateh Sagar Lake. At present it has opened for the visitors. Its fountains positioned in the four picturesque pools of the garden attract tourists. The Jagdish Chowk Road is well liked amongst the tourists visiting Udaipur, featuring handmade crafts and jewellery.
Ghanta Ghar Road is famous for fabrics made in Udaipur and Rajasthan; it is also called as fabric lover’s glory. Bapu has carpenters making wooden toys in the traditional manner. They also make wooden puppet with huge eyes.
Shil Gram is a rural crafts development center structured as an artificial village.The Meera Kala Mandir (a small theatre) has one-hour every day programme of Rajasthani folk dance and music performance and puppet shows.
The most expensive place is the lake Palace Hotel, has array of cuisines, but a prior reservation is required. Check out the Rajasthani Dhaba where one can have Dal- bati churma dipped in Desi Ghee and also the Lal Mahal Restaurant where one can have authentic rajasthani food. Try the fine continental buffet at gallery restaurant and there are also quite a lot of rooftop cafes for a budget meal as well as much good quality hotels that offer superb meals.
The extravagance hotels include the Udai Vilas, Lake Palace Hotel, Trident, Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel and the Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel. There are number of budget hotels near the Pichola Lake, which include Lalghat Guest House, the Mewar Inn and Lake Shore Palace Hotel.
Karnataka govt educating farmers of organic farming
The Karnataka Government is running various programmes to educate farmers about organic farming. The movement of organic farming is growing in India and the government of India is helping farmers in saving their farm lands.
THE FARMERS of villages in Southern Indian State of Karnataka are not aware of organic farming. They are still using conventional methods of farming, which include chemical fertilizers cow dung and manure to grow their crops. “We aren’t aware about organic farming, as we use our ways to grow crops like ragi,” said Apanna, a farmer. He added that they use urea as a chemical fertilizer to cultivate their crops early and to earn more money.
“We have certain policies and schemes to educate farmers about organic farming and put various training programmes in districts and talks in Karnataka,” said Krishna Chandra, regional director of Organic Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Bangalore. He added that they are providing funding to the Non Government Organisations and each organisation has a target to cover 1500 farmers and for that they are paying Rs 200 per farmer per year to the NGO’s to support the farmers.
They will also be providing professional extension training, whereon the professional farmers will guide the unprofessional farmers about organic farming. They will also be giving market linkage to the farmers where they could take the growing organic products and sell them to the retailers and half of the income will go to the farmer.
“There are 16 agencies in India and we give certification to farmers, as per the standards of Government of India and is equivalent to European standards of regulation, we only give certification to those farms whose farmland is purely organic and if it is under conversion, we mention that in the certification form.” Suresh, chief coordinator, Apof Organic Certification Agency, Bangalore
The movement of organic farming is growing in India and from the past three to four years, government of India is also interested in saving their farm lands. The government of Karnataka has made a separate cell called as ‘organic cell’ especially for farmers.
“The Government of Karnataka is giving 100 hectares of area in each district and taulk, being converted to organic farming and there are 29 districts in Karnataka, for which state government has selected 29 Non Government Organisations and given them the responsibility to work with farmers to make their farms organic,” said Suresh.
He also added that 50 per cent of the funding for organic farming is been done by Government of Karnataka and rest is by the farmers.
“We run various programmes, teaching students and also give training to farmers, a programme called Krishi Vignan Kendra wherein we demonstrate various organic farming practices,” said Dr Shranappa, professor of Agronomy, College of Agriculture and Gandhi Krishi Vignan Kendra, Bangalore
He added that the conventional methods of farming contaminate the water and pollute the surroundings. It causes health problems and also reduces the soil productivity and increases soil erosion primary to loss of nutrients from the soil and also the microbial life cycle gets disturbed.
He further added that several fertilizers being used by the farmers, mainly used is urea potash.
“We are operating a National Horticulture Mission under the Department of Horticulture, Lalbagh, in which 1500 farmers are supporting us to convert to organic farms, receiving payback profits from organic farming is time-consuming and ongoing. The end result will be seen after two years for organic crops like ragi, paddy and millet and for perennial crops like coconut, coffee and pepper will take three years.” said CN Renukaradhya, Chief Functionary, Courtesy India and a Non Government Organisation, Bangalore.
“My father was a organic farmer and I am also doing organic farming from back 10 years and in year 1998, I had used chemical fertilizers for my crops and saw the disaster, the chemical fertilizers are the killers for the crops they damage the land, crops and the environment. In India we are using banned fertilizers, wherein which were banned in other states years back. Most of the vegetables that are grown in Bangalore city are from sewage water and farmers washed the vegetables with the same water itself.
They harvest rain water to grow the crops in the farm land and sell all the organic products like sugar, soil, vegetables and oil which are fresh and healthy.” said Jairam, Organic Farmer and the owner of Eco Organic Outlet, Bangalore
THE FARMERS of villages in Southern Indian State of Karnataka are not aware of organic farming. They are still using conventional methods of farming, which include chemical fertilizers cow dung and manure to grow their crops. “We aren’t aware about organic farming, as we use our ways to grow crops like ragi,” said Apanna, a farmer. He added that they use urea as a chemical fertilizer to cultivate their crops early and to earn more money.
“We have certain policies and schemes to educate farmers about organic farming and put various training programmes in districts and talks in Karnataka,” said Krishna Chandra, regional director of Organic Farming, Ministry of Agriculture, Bangalore. He added that they are providing funding to the Non Government Organisations and each organisation has a target to cover 1500 farmers and for that they are paying Rs 200 per farmer per year to the NGO’s to support the farmers.
They will also be providing professional extension training, whereon the professional farmers will guide the unprofessional farmers about organic farming. They will also be giving market linkage to the farmers where they could take the growing organic products and sell them to the retailers and half of the income will go to the farmer.
“There are 16 agencies in India and we give certification to farmers, as per the standards of Government of India and is equivalent to European standards of regulation, we only give certification to those farms whose farmland is purely organic and if it is under conversion, we mention that in the certification form.” Suresh, chief coordinator, Apof Organic Certification Agency, Bangalore
The movement of organic farming is growing in India and from the past three to four years, government of India is also interested in saving their farm lands. The government of Karnataka has made a separate cell called as ‘organic cell’ especially for farmers.
“The Government of Karnataka is giving 100 hectares of area in each district and taulk, being converted to organic farming and there are 29 districts in Karnataka, for which state government has selected 29 Non Government Organisations and given them the responsibility to work with farmers to make their farms organic,” said Suresh.
He also added that 50 per cent of the funding for organic farming is been done by Government of Karnataka and rest is by the farmers.
“We run various programmes, teaching students and also give training to farmers, a programme called Krishi Vignan Kendra wherein we demonstrate various organic farming practices,” said Dr Shranappa, professor of Agronomy, College of Agriculture and Gandhi Krishi Vignan Kendra, Bangalore
He added that the conventional methods of farming contaminate the water and pollute the surroundings. It causes health problems and also reduces the soil productivity and increases soil erosion primary to loss of nutrients from the soil and also the microbial life cycle gets disturbed.
He further added that several fertilizers being used by the farmers, mainly used is urea potash.
“We are operating a National Horticulture Mission under the Department of Horticulture, Lalbagh, in which 1500 farmers are supporting us to convert to organic farms, receiving payback profits from organic farming is time-consuming and ongoing. The end result will be seen after two years for organic crops like ragi, paddy and millet and for perennial crops like coconut, coffee and pepper will take three years.” said CN Renukaradhya, Chief Functionary, Courtesy India and a Non Government Organisation, Bangalore.
“My father was a organic farmer and I am also doing organic farming from back 10 years and in year 1998, I had used chemical fertilizers for my crops and saw the disaster, the chemical fertilizers are the killers for the crops they damage the land, crops and the environment. In India we are using banned fertilizers, wherein which were banned in other states years back. Most of the vegetables that are grown in Bangalore city are from sewage water and farmers washed the vegetables with the same water itself.
They harvest rain water to grow the crops in the farm land and sell all the organic products like sugar, soil, vegetables and oil which are fresh and healthy.” said Jairam, Organic Farmer and the owner of Eco Organic Outlet, Bangalore
Prison turns a non-smoking region in Bangalore
WITH PRISONERS striving hard to be get out of the addiction, Bangalore Central prison is in the course of becoming a non-smoking region, although many prisoners are under the misconception that smoking a ‘beedi’ or cigarette, chewing tobacco, supari and gutka gives pleasure and beats depression. http://www.merinews.com/catFull.jsp?articleID=15764534
The Bangalore prison has 5,000 prisoners, of which 200 are females. They live in small dormitories, and are regularly affected by passive smoking. “The sale of ‘beedis’ and cigarettes in the prison canteen has reduced though not banned. We are not compelling the prisoners to give up smoking. We are inspiring them to lead an energetic and dynamic life and make this place good for living,” said chief superintendent of the prison MC Vishwanathaiah.
Many prisoners are under rehabilitation in the prison hospital. The doctors counsel to give up the addiction. “This habit should be managed with mind deviation, suppressing temptations or cravings and medicines. Most of the prisoners get trapped again into this habit due to lack of confidence and support to combat temptation and cravings, but the number of prisoners in rehabilitation process has increased in the last one month”, said superintendent of the central prisons Lakshminarayana T.H.
The withdrawal symptoms of the prisoners are the main obstacles in quitting smoking. The prisoners use these withdrawal symptoms as an excuse to delay quitting the habit. The most common symptoms are irritability, lack of concentration, depression, roller coaster of moods, craving, anxiety, tension, restlessness, tremor, tingling sensation in extremities, sleeplessness, constipation, dizziness, cough and voracious appetite.
However, these symptoms can be easily managed with will power, good diet, exercise and good environment. The project is being planned by the governor of Karnataka to introduce healthy living among the prisoners.
‘Mental Health Substance Use’, is a project to facilitate assessment and approach in prison. The people who are involved in it are Justice KA Manjunath, director and vice chancellor NIMHANS, Dr D Nagraja, additional director-deneral of police and inspector-general of prisons, ST Ramesh and Professor CR Chandrashekhar Prasad. They are all working towards making the project a national success.
The prison department provides a variety of indoor activities including chess, carom for each barrack to help them overcome the addiction. They also have a literacy programme, which includes three hours of reading, writing and arithmetic. Volleyball, yoga classes, music and dance are also added to the outdoor activities to engage them.
“It is a gradual process and the department requires sincere efforts then only we will be able to eradicate it”, said superintendent of the central prison Lakshminarayana TH.
The Bangalore prison has 5,000 prisoners, of which 200 are females. They live in small dormitories, and are regularly affected by passive smoking. “The sale of ‘beedis’ and cigarettes in the prison canteen has reduced though not banned. We are not compelling the prisoners to give up smoking. We are inspiring them to lead an energetic and dynamic life and make this place good for living,” said chief superintendent of the prison MC Vishwanathaiah.
Many prisoners are under rehabilitation in the prison hospital. The doctors counsel to give up the addiction. “This habit should be managed with mind deviation, suppressing temptations or cravings and medicines. Most of the prisoners get trapped again into this habit due to lack of confidence and support to combat temptation and cravings, but the number of prisoners in rehabilitation process has increased in the last one month”, said superintendent of the central prisons Lakshminarayana T.H.
The withdrawal symptoms of the prisoners are the main obstacles in quitting smoking. The prisoners use these withdrawal symptoms as an excuse to delay quitting the habit. The most common symptoms are irritability, lack of concentration, depression, roller coaster of moods, craving, anxiety, tension, restlessness, tremor, tingling sensation in extremities, sleeplessness, constipation, dizziness, cough and voracious appetite.
However, these symptoms can be easily managed with will power, good diet, exercise and good environment. The project is being planned by the governor of Karnataka to introduce healthy living among the prisoners.
‘Mental Health Substance Use’, is a project to facilitate assessment and approach in prison. The people who are involved in it are Justice KA Manjunath, director and vice chancellor NIMHANS, Dr D Nagraja, additional director-deneral of police and inspector-general of prisons, ST Ramesh and Professor CR Chandrashekhar Prasad. They are all working towards making the project a national success.
The prison department provides a variety of indoor activities including chess, carom for each barrack to help them overcome the addiction. They also have a literacy programme, which includes three hours of reading, writing and arithmetic. Volleyball, yoga classes, music and dance are also added to the outdoor activities to engage them.
“It is a gradual process and the department requires sincere efforts then only we will be able to eradicate it”, said superintendent of the central prison Lakshminarayana TH.
Fake branded goods being sold in Bangalore
Many shops in Bangalore are illegally selling fake products under international brand names such as Reebok, Adidas, Puma and Nike. The shop owners replicate the logos and the design of these brands so perfectly that it looks original.
Many SHOPS in Bangalore are violating the Trade Marks Act by selling fake products under international brand names such as Reebok, Adidas, Puma and Nike.
Pick and Move, a store at Brigade Road keeps fake shirts, t-shirts and caps of brands such as Levis, Nike, Lee and Pepe. Mohammed Mosim, an employee at the shop said, “Of course, these are fake brand clothes. We produce these.”
Today's Bazaar, another garment shop at Brigade Road, which attracts a lot of customers, has many fake branded clothes and accessories for sale. Abdul, the shop owner said, “We get the clothes from Tirpur in Tamil Nadu, where such clothes are manufactured and exported. We buy them in bulk and earn 50 to 60 per cent profit.”
The shop owners replicate the logos and the design of these brands so perfectly that it looks original to an unsuspecting customer. These items can be bought for Rs 250 to Rs 400 in these shops, whereas the prices of the original items start from Rs 1000.
SN Siddaramappa, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), said that not only the City Crime Branch, even the area police inspector can go and check shops for fake branded goods. He said that the police constables report them if shopowners sell fake brands.
“We generally go for raids and seize the duplicated material, anywhere, at anytime. We also inform the company. But the company should come and cooperate with us if they know their brands are counterfeited,” said Siddaramappa.
Abhi Pradhan, Store Manager of Lee Store, Brigade Road, said that if they come to know that fake brands are being sold, he reports it to the area manager.
“We inform the legal department, later they do all the proceedings,” said Harjeet Gora, Stores Operation Manager, Adidas Regional Office.
“First we see the brand, if it is fake then we lodge the complaint and find out the root cause why it is happening,” said BG Suresh, Regional Head, Store Operations. He said that selling of fake products hampers the brand image.
“Curbing raids has not resulted in the desired effects,” said Saptrishi, a loyal customer of Levi's jeans, who has been buying original Levi's jeans since three years.
“In August, there was one case being registered under the Trade Mark Act, 1999. But the problem we are facing is that companies don't approach us,” said Siddaramappa.
Many SHOPS in Bangalore are violating the Trade Marks Act by selling fake products under international brand names such as Reebok, Adidas, Puma and Nike.
Pick and Move, a store at Brigade Road keeps fake shirts, t-shirts and caps of brands such as Levis, Nike, Lee and Pepe. Mohammed Mosim, an employee at the shop said, “Of course, these are fake brand clothes. We produce these.”
Today's Bazaar, another garment shop at Brigade Road, which attracts a lot of customers, has many fake branded clothes and accessories for sale. Abdul, the shop owner said, “We get the clothes from Tirpur in Tamil Nadu, where such clothes are manufactured and exported. We buy them in bulk and earn 50 to 60 per cent profit.”
The shop owners replicate the logos and the design of these brands so perfectly that it looks original to an unsuspecting customer. These items can be bought for Rs 250 to Rs 400 in these shops, whereas the prices of the original items start from Rs 1000.
SN Siddaramappa, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), said that not only the City Crime Branch, even the area police inspector can go and check shops for fake branded goods. He said that the police constables report them if shopowners sell fake brands.
“We generally go for raids and seize the duplicated material, anywhere, at anytime. We also inform the company. But the company should come and cooperate with us if they know their brands are counterfeited,” said Siddaramappa.
Abhi Pradhan, Store Manager of Lee Store, Brigade Road, said that if they come to know that fake brands are being sold, he reports it to the area manager.
“We inform the legal department, later they do all the proceedings,” said Harjeet Gora, Stores Operation Manager, Adidas Regional Office.
“First we see the brand, if it is fake then we lodge the complaint and find out the root cause why it is happening,” said BG Suresh, Regional Head, Store Operations. He said that selling of fake products hampers the brand image.
“Curbing raids has not resulted in the desired effects,” said Saptrishi, a loyal customer of Levi's jeans, who has been buying original Levi's jeans since three years.
“In August, there was one case being registered under the Trade Mark Act, 1999. But the problem we are facing is that companies don't approach us,” said Siddaramappa.
Dismal state of Primary Health Centres in India
Primary Health Centres in India were set up with a view to provide healthcare facilities to the poor and rural people. However, they have failed to live up to the objective and expectations with which they were established.
The Primary Health Centres in Karnataka have the provision of giving the contraceptives such as condom and oral pills. But the health centres in K Golahalli and Kumbalgudu in the outskirts of Bangalore are not providing assured services to their patients.
The Primary Health center (PHC) in K Golahalli is the only centre, which covers 20 villages and has two sub centres - one in K Golahalli and the other in Thittahalli. A new one room PHC has opened in Kumbalgudu.
The centre has only four beds and one senior doctor and one nurse, who look after minimum thirty patients a day. The centre opens at 9:00 in the morning but the doctor comes at 11:30 am and patients wait for at least one or two hours daily to get their check up done.
The shortage of resources is prevalent as is the case with most government health centres. In poor states like Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa, expense levels are low while hopes for living well stay high.
The actual problem the Primary Health Centres face is shortage of medicines, necessary drugs that are insufficient to cater to large number of patients and also the low salaries of the doctors.
"I am taking the treatment from a week, every second day I have to come and consult the doctor but she generally comes late and it creates difficulty for other villagers also," said Manjunath, a villager.
He also added that PHC services are not maintained systematically. They don’t even have proper antibiotics to give to the patients.
Shiv Kumar, health inspector in PHC, said, “There are many villagers, who use this PHC for medical check ups, but we don’t have many facilities for the patients.”
He added that every month 400 pieces of contraceptives (Nirodh) and 400 oral pills like Mala D are sent to the PHC by the government to stop unwanted pregnancy.
In the village there are very few, who know that Primary Health Centre gives contraceptive and oral pills free of cost and there is no awareness among the villagers about these pills and contraceptives.
"I have one child and we don’t use condom. I am not aware of that PHC gives contraceptive and oral pills free of cost. But right now I am planning to have one more child," said Suma, a villager’s wife.
"We go to the villages to create awareness among the villagers but we only get six pieces of condoms, if those six pieces get over then we don’t get more for the day," said Shweta, a nurse in the PHC.
Primary Health Centre should be equipped with operation theatre, labour room, observation ward, ambulance, drinking water and a lady doctor. Also, the added function of PHCs consists of providing regular in-patient and outpatient health care services, implementation of family welfare programme, prevention and control of endemic diseases, basic sanitation and immunisation.
Primary Health Centres is the basis of rural healthcare and are made-up to meet the health care requirements of rural population.
In rural India, poverty and low levels of education are the grass root problems and the villagers depend on PHC for their treatment and still the state government can’t take the proper care of these health centres.
However, the practice of absenteeism amongst the doctors in PHC is very high.
Another Primary Health Centre in Kumbalgudu has only two rooms, no wards and no basic facilities.
"Panchayati Raj institution had promised us to give the building but nothing has been done till now," said Sujata, lab technician in Kumbalgudu PHC.
She added, “We don’t even have observation ward where we can do the check ups and no medicines and added that at least K Golahalli PHC has its own building, toilets, good infrastructure but here we don’t even have toilets, no storage for medicines, no water and on top of that we have a doctor, who comes rarely to look after the patients and there are about thirty patients for treatment every day.
“Primary health centre in Kumbalgudu doesn’t have contraceptives and oral pills to give to their patients and also don’t have general facilities for the patients,” she said.
She also added that panchyat of the village is the authority, which looks after the monitoring of the PHC and they are not doing anything for the welfare to the villagers.
Health as a human right
Poor health has consequences not only for women but also for their families. Women in poor health are more likely to give birth to low weight infants. They also are less likely to be able to provide food and adequate care for their children.
Each Sphere in the world is now gathering at least one human rights contract that deal with health-related rights. It comprises the right to health as well as other rights that relate to conditions necessary for health.
India has taken speedy steps in the health sector since Independence. We have a vast personal healthcare infrastructure. But serious health problems continue to take a large number of lives, babies continue to die needless deaths from diarrhea and respiratory virus and millions still do not have access to the most basic healthcare.
“There are many complaints of violation of human rights and Karnataka Human Rights Commission is not working at all and not even providing basic help to the poor,” said Dr Ida, medical practitioner and activist.
She also said that the health of Indian women is essentially related to their status in society. The contributions Indian women make to their families frequently are ignored and in its place they are looked at as economic burdens. There is a strong son preference in India, as sons are expected to care for parents as they grew old.
Poor health has consequences not only for women but also for their families. Women in poor health are more likely to give birth to low weight infants. They also are less likely to be able to provide food and adequate care for their children. Finally, a woman’s health affects the household economic well being, as a woman in poor health will be less productive in the labour force.
We exist in a globalise surroundings, characterised by increasing stress between our technological abilities and our social policies to meet the basic health needs. There are people in and around Bangalore who don’t have any place to survive.
Every woman, man, youth and child has the human right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, without bias. Indulgence of the human right to health is vital to all aspects of a person's life and well-being and is very important to the understanding of many other basic human rights and freedoms.
World Health Organisation is promoting and protecting health by fulfilling human rights. The violation of and lack of attention to human rights can have serious health consequences (eg, harmful traditional practices, slavery, torture and inhuman and degrading treatment, violence against women and children).
Health policies and programmes can promote or violate human rights in their design or implementation eg, freedom from discrimination, rights to participation, privacy and information.
According to the Anita Cheria, the director of Open Space, the non government organisation said that employees and contractors who are employed under government association are not getting enough funds to earn their livelihood. They live on the construction site in unhygienic conditions and also get diseases. The most common diseases are urinal infection because the government did not provide propr toilets to them and even if they are providing, there are 30 people for one toilet.
“The contractors pay the labourers just Rs 160 to the male and Rs 110 to the female, which is not at all sufficient to feed the whole family,” said Goirang, a labour from Orissa, working at the site near Kengri.
“We recognise that people's health is influenced by determinants that are deeply fixed in the social, political, economic, cultural and ecological fabric of life. Therefore, the core thrust our organisation is to promote community health based on the social paradigm, through policy action, training, networking and mainstreaming the people’s health movement,” said Prem Das, state conveyor, Jana Arogaya Andolan or People’s Health Movement.
He also added that health is not a medicine, it is a well being of the human body. As nations look to support the health systems, they are gradually looking to primary health care (PHC) to provide a clear and complete sense of course.
The World Health Report 2008 also says that primary health care reforms, represent that the principles of universal access, equity and social justice are a necessary reaction to the health challenges of a speedily altering world and the growing expectations of countries and their citizens for health and health care.
Each Sphere in the world is now gathering at least one human rights contract that deal with health-related rights. It comprises the right to health as well as other rights that relate to conditions necessary for health.
India has taken speedy steps in the health sector since Independence. We have a vast personal healthcare infrastructure. But serious health problems continue to take a large number of lives, babies continue to die needless deaths from diarrhea and respiratory virus and millions still do not have access to the most basic healthcare.
“There are many complaints of violation of human rights and Karnataka Human Rights Commission is not working at all and not even providing basic help to the poor,” said Dr Ida, medical practitioner and activist.
She also said that the health of Indian women is essentially related to their status in society. The contributions Indian women make to their families frequently are ignored and in its place they are looked at as economic burdens. There is a strong son preference in India, as sons are expected to care for parents as they grew old.
Poor health has consequences not only for women but also for their families. Women in poor health are more likely to give birth to low weight infants. They also are less likely to be able to provide food and adequate care for their children. Finally, a woman’s health affects the household economic well being, as a woman in poor health will be less productive in the labour force.
We exist in a globalise surroundings, characterised by increasing stress between our technological abilities and our social policies to meet the basic health needs. There are people in and around Bangalore who don’t have any place to survive.
Every woman, man, youth and child has the human right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, without bias. Indulgence of the human right to health is vital to all aspects of a person's life and well-being and is very important to the understanding of many other basic human rights and freedoms.
World Health Organisation is promoting and protecting health by fulfilling human rights. The violation of and lack of attention to human rights can have serious health consequences (eg, harmful traditional practices, slavery, torture and inhuman and degrading treatment, violence against women and children).
Health policies and programmes can promote or violate human rights in their design or implementation eg, freedom from discrimination, rights to participation, privacy and information.
According to the Anita Cheria, the director of Open Space, the non government organisation said that employees and contractors who are employed under government association are not getting enough funds to earn their livelihood. They live on the construction site in unhygienic conditions and also get diseases. The most common diseases are urinal infection because the government did not provide propr toilets to them and even if they are providing, there are 30 people for one toilet.
“The contractors pay the labourers just Rs 160 to the male and Rs 110 to the female, which is not at all sufficient to feed the whole family,” said Goirang, a labour from Orissa, working at the site near Kengri.
“We recognise that people's health is influenced by determinants that are deeply fixed in the social, political, economic, cultural and ecological fabric of life. Therefore, the core thrust our organisation is to promote community health based on the social paradigm, through policy action, training, networking and mainstreaming the people’s health movement,” said Prem Das, state conveyor, Jana Arogaya Andolan or People’s Health Movement.
He also added that health is not a medicine, it is a well being of the human body. As nations look to support the health systems, they are gradually looking to primary health care (PHC) to provide a clear and complete sense of course.
The World Health Report 2008 also says that primary health care reforms, represent that the principles of universal access, equity and social justice are a necessary reaction to the health challenges of a speedily altering world and the growing expectations of countries and their citizens for health and health care.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
