By Nabeel A. Khan
Noida, Oct 20 (IANS) A couple here who runs a news and information portal wants Indians to observe Jan 30 next year as 'no driving day'.
On that day, Ranjan Kaplish and Padma Pegu expect people to give up their sedentary habits and either walk or cycle down to nearby destinations and use public transport to reach faraway places.
This, they say, will help preserve precious fuel and conserve the environment.
The pair believes that this one small step taken by the people would go a long way in facilitating "societal transformation" necessary for sustainable development.
According to the founders of the initiative, within a week of their call, at least 100 people from all over the country have committed themselves to the cause on their website CauseBecause (www.causebecause.com).
To register, one has to go to the website and press the 'I commit' button, and share his/her name, email ID and vehicle number (the last one is optional).
According to Ranjan and Padma, the initiative is picking up not just on their website but on social media platforms as well.
For instance, at least 420 people on Twitter and 230 on Facebook are following the developments at CauseBecause.
The idea struck the couple running a portal on 'development and sustainability' when the two were tossing ideas on how to evolve a concept that would involve the people at large.
Although last year's UN summit in Copenhagen that discussed climate change collapsed, many lesser-informed people around the world realised the significance of environment conservation and the harm of global warming.
Similar concepts have seen a success in South Korea, Malaysia and China, but participation was not voluntary in those countries, as those were government-enforced initiatives.
In India it is estimated that 70 percent of air pollution is caused by vehicles. Exhaust from vehicles has risen eight-fold over levels 20 years ago.
The green enthusiasts believe that such steps by civil society can make a difference.
In November 2009, India revised its national ambient air quality standards and made them equivalent to the European level, exceeding even the standard prevalent in the US.
Nevertheless, air quality has been worsening in big cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.
Ranjan Kaplish, who monitors his website closely, says: "If a considerable number of people commit, the day will also test the efficiency of the public transport system."
He says the campaign at present is being spread via word of mouth.
"We are confident that as Jan 30 approaches, we'll be able to see near about 50,000 people committing to keep their vehicles off road," he says.
The comments made by individuals on the campaign are encouraging.
Meghna from Delhi says: "It's the least I can contribute as a citizen of this country." Dasmesh Singh, Chandigarh, says: "It will be great to see roads with people either cycling or walking... though that seems like a dream."
(Nabeel A. Khan can be contacted at nabeel.k@ians.in)
Showing posts with label Feature. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Feature. Show all posts
19.4.10
Nariyal pani, kanchas, kakris...Hot Delhi chills by roadside
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, April 19 (IANS) A bevy of college girls with their heads covered in bandanas or cotton scarves and eyes protected by sunglasses get down from a bus only to make an abrupt halt at a kiosk selling 'kanchas', a chilled lime drink. It takes a while before they get back the energy to utter, "My god! It's so hot".
Motorists and pedestrians alike frequently bless 'nariyal paani walas' or fresh coconut water sellers, and fruit juice sellers, never mind the prices charged. For, its unbelievably hot for this time of the year.
With the city experiencing the hottest April day in 52 years on Saturday (43.7 degrees Celsius), Delhiites are working upon various ways to beat the heat.
"As the heat goes up, our sales also go up," says Raju Mahto, a vendor near Hansraj College, in between taking orders from students for a plate of fruit salad.
Rahul Bhasin, an executive with a private firm, said he often takes a break on his way to office and stops at a roadside fruit stall near Kalindi Kunj in south Delhi.
"In summer, it's a great time to devour watermelons and kakris or cool off with a glass of shikanji. This is how I beat the heat. I'm also going for river rafting to Rishikesh next week," Bhasin said.
Fruits and lemon juice with water are the best way to fight the heat with, says Nalin Nag, a senior consultant in the department of medicine at Apollo Hospital.
He, however, warned that children and the elderly should be more careful during this season. "Children and the elderly are more vulnerable to heat waves. They may suffer from heat stroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Lime water with salt can give immediate relief in such cases," Nag told IANS.
However, dietician Vandana Shekhawat feels summer is the best season to shed those extra pounds.
"In summer, we generally don't have appetite for high calories and we mostly prefer taking fruits and fluids which help in checking weight. So, if we add a brief workout regime, it can be the icing on the cake," Shekhawat told IANS.
http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/lifestyle/nariyal-pani-kanchas-kakrishot-delhi-chills-by-roadside_100350244.html
http://www.newkerala.com/news/fullnews-92177.html
http://in.news.yahoo.com/43/20100419/812/tnl-nariyal-pani-kanchas-kakris-hot-delh.html
http://www.aol.in/news-story/Hot-Delhi-chills-by-roadside/874628
17.9.09
Fighting diarrhoea to eradicate polio
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) It kills nearly 500,000 children every year. But one of the lesser known facts about diarrhoea is that it also makes anti-polio drops ineffective. Now, one of the leading donor organisations in India, Rotary International, has joined hands with the Indian government to help fight diarrhoea in order to eradicate polio.
"Diarrhoea kills nearly 500,000 children a year in the country. It is often associated with increasing risk of polio. The stomach of children suffering from diarrhoea becomes like a bucket with a hole. You keep on pouring the polio vaccine but it doesn't stay there long enough to build immunity," Deepak Kapur, chairman of the India National PolioPlus Society of Rotary International, told IANS.
"We have approached the government of India to help them eradicate diarrhoea by creating awareness about use of zinc tablet and oral rehydration therapy (ORT). The government has been very forthcoming," Kapur said.
The use of zinc and ORT is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to decrease the incidence and severity of diarrhoea.
The government has adopted a policy to use zinc and ORT in the treatment of diarrhoea under the National Rural Health Mission.
Diarrhoea is the second most common cause of death in children aged below five in India. And of these deaths, 88 percent were caused by lack of sanitation, poor hygiene practices and contaminated drinking water, Kapur said.
He said the focus of the intervention would be in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Orissa.
According to a government report, of the 136 fresh polio cases detected in the country this year, 97 were in Uttar Pradesh.
"Our Rotarians are constantly in touch with the district magistrates in Uttar Pradesh to get the supply of the zinc tablets from them. Recently, the district magistrate of Moradabad has sent a supply of zinc tablets and ORT," Kapur said.
Rotary International has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Academy of Paediatricians to make the campaign successful.
Naveen Thacker, former president of the International Paediatric Association, said: "Polio virus has still not been eliminated in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. One of the reasons for this is very high rate of diarrhoeal diseases, rampant malnutrition and high rate of NPEV (non-polio enterovirus) circulation in these areas.
"Each diarrhoeal episode causes damage to intestinal mucosa and hampers its absorption capacity for a long time which interferes with vaccine uptake, making these children susceptible to polio virus," he said.
"The ORT-Zinc Campaign will help in speedy recovery from diarrhoea."
The zinc tablets are given to children between the age of two months and five years.
Experts said the dispersible tablets can be administered by mixing with breast milk or water. The treatment should start from the first day of diarrhoea and a 14-day course should be completed.
India is one of the three countries in the world that still have the crippling polio disease.
"Even after administering multiple doses, the occurrence of polio cases in the children is of great concern. During 2008, 79 percent of polio cases had received more than seven doses. In 2009, the figure stood at 78 percent," Kapur said.
Rotary International has invested $108 million (Rs.540 crore) in India for its dual fight against polio and diarrhoea.
http://www.headlinesindia.com/health-and-science-news/disease/fighting-diarrhoea-to-eradicate-polio-22576.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health/Fight-diarrhoea-to-eradicate-polio-/articleshow/5017969.cms
http://twocircles.net/2009sep15/fighting_diarrhoea_eradicate_polio.html
http://www.aol.in/news-story/fighting-diarrhoea-to-eradicate-polio/590097
http://www.newkerala.com/nkfullnews-1-112935.html
New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) It kills nearly 500,000 children every year. But one of the lesser known facts about diarrhoea is that it also makes anti-polio drops ineffective. Now, one of the leading donor organisations in India, Rotary International, has joined hands with the Indian government to help fight diarrhoea in order to eradicate polio.
"Diarrhoea kills nearly 500,000 children a year in the country. It is often associated with increasing risk of polio. The stomach of children suffering from diarrhoea becomes like a bucket with a hole. You keep on pouring the polio vaccine but it doesn't stay there long enough to build immunity," Deepak Kapur, chairman of the India National PolioPlus Society of Rotary International, told IANS.
"We have approached the government of India to help them eradicate diarrhoea by creating awareness about use of zinc tablet and oral rehydration therapy (ORT). The government has been very forthcoming," Kapur said.
The use of zinc and ORT is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to decrease the incidence and severity of diarrhoea.
The government has adopted a policy to use zinc and ORT in the treatment of diarrhoea under the National Rural Health Mission.
Diarrhoea is the second most common cause of death in children aged below five in India. And of these deaths, 88 percent were caused by lack of sanitation, poor hygiene practices and contaminated drinking water, Kapur said.
He said the focus of the intervention would be in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Orissa.
According to a government report, of the 136 fresh polio cases detected in the country this year, 97 were in Uttar Pradesh.
"Our Rotarians are constantly in touch with the district magistrates in Uttar Pradesh to get the supply of the zinc tablets from them. Recently, the district magistrate of Moradabad has sent a supply of zinc tablets and ORT," Kapur said.
Rotary International has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Academy of Paediatricians to make the campaign successful.
Naveen Thacker, former president of the International Paediatric Association, said: "Polio virus has still not been eliminated in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. One of the reasons for this is very high rate of diarrhoeal diseases, rampant malnutrition and high rate of NPEV (non-polio enterovirus) circulation in these areas.
"Each diarrhoeal episode causes damage to intestinal mucosa and hampers its absorption capacity for a long time which interferes with vaccine uptake, making these children susceptible to polio virus," he said.
"The ORT-Zinc Campaign will help in speedy recovery from diarrhoea."
The zinc tablets are given to children between the age of two months and five years.
Experts said the dispersible tablets can be administered by mixing with breast milk or water. The treatment should start from the first day of diarrhoea and a 14-day course should be completed.
India is one of the three countries in the world that still have the crippling polio disease.
"Even after administering multiple doses, the occurrence of polio cases in the children is of great concern. During 2008, 79 percent of polio cases had received more than seven doses. In 2009, the figure stood at 78 percent," Kapur said.
Rotary International has invested $108 million (Rs.540 crore) in India for its dual fight against polio and diarrhoea.
http://www.headlinesindia.com/health-and-science-news/disease/fighting-diarrhoea-to-eradicate-polio-22576.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health/Fight-diarrhoea-to-eradicate-polio-/articleshow/5017969.cms
http://twocircles.net/2009sep15/fighting_diarrhoea_eradicate_polio.html
http://www.aol.in/news-story/fighting-diarrhoea-to-eradicate-polio/590097
http://www.newkerala.com/nkfullnews-1-112935.html
TV's a bad guru for yoga, warn experts
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) Do you sit and perform complicated yoga postures day after day at home with only TV as your instructor? It may be time to turn the idiot box off, as experts warn that practising yoga through mass media without proper guidance can do more harm than good.
"Yoga needs very close concentration and two-way communication is essential; so the best way to perform yoga is with an instructor. The asanas (postures) and prakriyas (processes) somebody is imitating from TV may not be suitable for them and can create trouble," Yogi Shri Ashish Chatterjee, president of Satya Foundation, told IANS.
Yoga is India's traditional physical and mental discipline which is associated with meditative practices.
Yoga is a Sanskrit word which is derived from the Sanskrit root 'yuj', meaning to control, to yoke or to unite. However, in general yoga is typically associated with hatha yoga and its asanas or as a form of exercise.
Manoj Kumar, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Moolchand Hospital, New Delhi, said: "There has been quite an increase in the number of people coming with injuries caused by doing yoga in inappropriate postures as they just watch it on TV and try to imitate it."
"At least three to four patients come with such complaints every week," Kumar told IANS.
R.S. Bhogal, principal of prominent meditation and yoga institute Kaivalyadham in Lonavala, said: "Of course, practising yoga through TV or DVD can create lots of problems as the person cannot get proper feedback and he can either overstretch or have too much contraction."
Bhogal added: "The best way to practise yoga is through one-to-one interaction, so that communication can be easy and efficient. However, it is not always possible to conduct a one-to-one yoga programme; so in my opinion the ideal ratio between instructor and student would be of 30:2 (one yoga instructor, one assistant and 30 students)."
Bhogal also feels it would not be right to practise yoga through mass media.
"The reason behind it is that these asanas have spiritual value. Though it looks like simple exercise, it is not. The different asanas lead us towards peace," Bhogal said.
Rachna Rana, an MBA student who has practised yoga through TV, said: "I was thrilled to see yoga on TV and started practising it every morning, but in a few weeks I got my knee sprained and it took long to recover."
Yash Gulati, senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, said: "One yoga posture cannot be beneficial for all kinds of people. So it is very important to consult an expert before practising, as the effectiveness of yoga depends on various factors like age, physical condition, etc."
While Chatterjee admitted that the TV has helped yoga gain popularity, he said: "TV is distorting the spiritual aspect of yoga and it is not doing any good to people; rather it is causing complications."
(Nabeel A. Khan can be contacted at nabeel.k@ians.in)
http://www.hindustantimes.com/News/goodliving/TV-s-a-bad-guru-for-yoga/Article1-448808.aspx
http://www.aol.in/news-story/tvs-a-bad-guru-for-yoga-warn-experts/568761
http://www.newkerala.com/nkfullnews-1-102023.html
http://www.headlinesindia.com/lifestyle-news/lifestyle/tvs-a-bad-guru-for-yoga-warn-experts-21044.html
http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=143072
New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) Do you sit and perform complicated yoga postures day after day at home with only TV as your instructor? It may be time to turn the idiot box off, as experts warn that practising yoga through mass media without proper guidance can do more harm than good.
"Yoga needs very close concentration and two-way communication is essential; so the best way to perform yoga is with an instructor. The asanas (postures) and prakriyas (processes) somebody is imitating from TV may not be suitable for them and can create trouble," Yogi Shri Ashish Chatterjee, president of Satya Foundation, told IANS.
Yoga is India's traditional physical and mental discipline which is associated with meditative practices.
Yoga is a Sanskrit word which is derived from the Sanskrit root 'yuj', meaning to control, to yoke or to unite. However, in general yoga is typically associated with hatha yoga and its asanas or as a form of exercise.
Manoj Kumar, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Moolchand Hospital, New Delhi, said: "There has been quite an increase in the number of people coming with injuries caused by doing yoga in inappropriate postures as they just watch it on TV and try to imitate it."
"At least three to four patients come with such complaints every week," Kumar told IANS.
R.S. Bhogal, principal of prominent meditation and yoga institute Kaivalyadham in Lonavala, said: "Of course, practising yoga through TV or DVD can create lots of problems as the person cannot get proper feedback and he can either overstretch or have too much contraction."
Bhogal added: "The best way to practise yoga is through one-to-one interaction, so that communication can be easy and efficient. However, it is not always possible to conduct a one-to-one yoga programme; so in my opinion the ideal ratio between instructor and student would be of 30:2 (one yoga instructor, one assistant and 30 students)."
Bhogal also feels it would not be right to practise yoga through mass media.
"The reason behind it is that these asanas have spiritual value. Though it looks like simple exercise, it is not. The different asanas lead us towards peace," Bhogal said.
Rachna Rana, an MBA student who has practised yoga through TV, said: "I was thrilled to see yoga on TV and started practising it every morning, but in a few weeks I got my knee sprained and it took long to recover."
Yash Gulati, senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, said: "One yoga posture cannot be beneficial for all kinds of people. So it is very important to consult an expert before practising, as the effectiveness of yoga depends on various factors like age, physical condition, etc."
While Chatterjee admitted that the TV has helped yoga gain popularity, he said: "TV is distorting the spiritual aspect of yoga and it is not doing any good to people; rather it is causing complications."
(Nabeel A. Khan can be contacted at nabeel.k@ians.in)
http://www.hindustantimes.com/News/goodliving/TV-s-a-bad-guru-for-yoga/Article1-448808.aspx
http://www.aol.in/news-story/tvs-a-bad-guru-for-yoga-warn-experts/568761
http://www.newkerala.com/nkfullnews-1-102023.html
http://www.headlinesindia.com/lifestyle-news/lifestyle/tvs-a-bad-guru-for-yoga-warn-experts-21044.html
http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=143072
6.5.09
Professional, educated and aspiring to be politician
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, May 5 (IANS) If you thought politics was the preserve of the corrupt or the criminal, think again. The 15th Lok Sabha polls boast of a new breed of candidates who are professionals, well educated and motivated people the middle class can identify with.
Bankers, doctors and graduates of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) among others are in the fray this time.
"For many years we have created a myth that all politicians are criminal and corrupt, but in the meantime Indian democracy has also emerged stronger. Educated and professional people have finally decided to plunge into politics," Imtiyaz Ahmad, an eminent political scientist from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) here, told IANS.
Ahmad feels the participation of professionals as independent candidates or as those who float their own party is an expression of dissatisfaction with tried and tested politicians.
Rajendra Thakar, who contested from North Mumbai on a Professionals Party of India ticket, is one of them.
"India needs new parties as the traditional outfits are engrossed in corruption, as people need to see the hope that will lead the country forward. And that is one of the main reasons that new parties like ours have been floated with clearly defined objectives for people, not for ourselves," Thakar told IANS on phone.
Bharat Punarnirman Dal is a party made up of IIT graduates that has put up 40 candidates across India.
Britain-based consultant Kumar Kuntikanamta came all the way to Mangalore, Karnataka, to contest. "I think all Indians want a change in the current political system, but very few are willing to act. People criticise politicians but they don't want to join it," he said.
Meera Sanyal, a banker who contested as an independent from South Mumbai and has been much talked about in this election, exudes confidence about her victory.
The strong presence of independent candidates this time has not gone unnoticed and it has made political parties wary that they will cut into crucial votes.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh last month said that independent candidates were 'spoilers' and urged people not to vote for them.
Young voters are attracted to independent candidates.
Apurva Upadhyaya, a first time voter, says: "I will rather vote for a new and young party, may be an independent, as traditional parties have not been able to perform as well as they should have."
Lubna Asif, at 25, is one of the youngest Lok Sabha candidates and is contesting from Gautam Buddh Nagar constituency in Uttar Pradesh for the All India Minorities Front.
Achin Vinayak, political analyst and professor at Delhi University, agrees that the perception of politics and politicians is changing and holds the 26/11 Mumbai attacks as a key reason for this.
"I think 26/11 made the middle class think that they are also at threat, so they started blaming politicians and became active," Vinayak told IANS.
Vinayak, however, doesn't think that the trend of middle class people and professionals joining politics is automatically a good thing.
"We have good and bad people among professionals just like in any other category. It would be partial to blindly brand all these fellows 'good' and 'corruption free'," he maintained.
On similar lines, Ahmad cautioned: "As our democracy is party-based, if candidates don't have mainstream party support, it would be tough to function.
"The only way to bring about change is through mainstream parties because Indians do not vote for individuals; they vote for the party and so the chance of success of such a candidate is very less."
(Nabeel A. Khan can be contacted at nabeel.k@ians.in)
links for coverage
http://in.news.yahoo.com/43/20090505/812/tnl-professional-educated-and-aspiring-t.html
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20090506/delhi.htm#10
Comments by Readers on this story
Hello Mr. Nabeel A. Khan:
I read with much enthusiasm and pride the movement of Indian Youth in the Political
Arena. It is time to bring in young fresh minds and develop a new and improved
political system, Reduced number of parties, revised constitution that works for the
people, A BILL OF RIGHTS of citizens with Charter of Rights & Freedom, and much more
I have a Vision for my Nation written with a Passion that outlines a Mission
addressing the needs of every Generation, it touches on the Constitution, life for
the least of our Citizen and brings forth one LAW:
WHATSOEVER WE DO, IT MUST ADD VALUE UPGRADING TO THE MINIMUM NEED AND ENHANSING THE
QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE LEAST OF OUR CITIZEN.
Should you and your movement be interested I would be pleased to address a rally of
youth and instill in them Love & Spirit of our Nation to build it because only when
our country is rich and successful will all its citizen be as well. This can be
learnt by observing the developed nations and their administration of the running of
their nations.
Good Luck!!!!!
Anthony Saldanha
HI Anthony ji,
U make it sound as if India was not alive before the new breed came in. Let me
tell u that the locals are SO aware of Politics it is not funny. And the new
breed of IIT'S that you are sooo proud of, and talking about are no better
than the previous bunch. The previous one's have shown themsel\ves for what
they are, and this new breed will show themselves for what they are. I am
sorry to point out that they are going to be nothing better than mouthpieces
of the Whites'.
I would like to highlight one case in point. I met Shashi Tharoor recently,
and in a one to one conversation, i asked him why he does not fight to get
India out of the Nuke Deal, to which he said, u think the nuke deal is not
good, and i said tell me ONE thing that is good about the deal, and he said "
Indian Scientists were longing to go to the USA, and now they get their visas
easily and are visiting." This my dear sir , is the new breed.
I wanted to stand for elections but my name was not on the voter's list.
A Marigold (Goonda) is actually a bouquet of flowers - as each petal is a
complete flower in itself. Did u know this????
Dear Nabeel,
I am smriti from Bangalore working as a pr professional, read your article
and i really feel happy the way youngers are getting into politics and
willing to bring a change as we are really fedup with parties asking votes
for caste, religion,..we need change ,development,education..and this caste
and religion politics is going on from years and we havent achieved
anything..
It's high time to wake up and vote for the young, educated leaders ,hope to
see a positive change in our society instead of always cribbing about the
political system...
--
Thank You....
-----------------------------------------
Regards,
Smirit
Hi Nabeel,
A very good article posted in yahoo! I totally agree that India now
needs a profesional and an educated politicians who can change the face
of our nation. More importantly each and every politician should be
Accountable for their job which is the core for our nation's progress.
The last two lines from the article is very correct. "As our democracy
is...." Hope our mass understands where the actual gem is hidden.
Jai Hind,
Shreejith K.
Thank You Mr nabeel,
thank you for mentioning our party in your yahoo.com article
Best Regards
Sudhir
www.voteforfamily.net
New Delhi, May 5 (IANS) If you thought politics was the preserve of the corrupt or the criminal, think again. The 15th Lok Sabha polls boast of a new breed of candidates who are professionals, well educated and motivated people the middle class can identify with.
Bankers, doctors and graduates of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) among others are in the fray this time.
"For many years we have created a myth that all politicians are criminal and corrupt, but in the meantime Indian democracy has also emerged stronger. Educated and professional people have finally decided to plunge into politics," Imtiyaz Ahmad, an eminent political scientist from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) here, told IANS.
Ahmad feels the participation of professionals as independent candidates or as those who float their own party is an expression of dissatisfaction with tried and tested politicians.
Rajendra Thakar, who contested from North Mumbai on a Professionals Party of India ticket, is one of them.
"India needs new parties as the traditional outfits are engrossed in corruption, as people need to see the hope that will lead the country forward. And that is one of the main reasons that new parties like ours have been floated with clearly defined objectives for people, not for ourselves," Thakar told IANS on phone.
Bharat Punarnirman Dal is a party made up of IIT graduates that has put up 40 candidates across India.
Britain-based consultant Kumar Kuntikanamta came all the way to Mangalore, Karnataka, to contest. "I think all Indians want a change in the current political system, but very few are willing to act. People criticise politicians but they don't want to join it," he said.
Meera Sanyal, a banker who contested as an independent from South Mumbai and has been much talked about in this election, exudes confidence about her victory.
The strong presence of independent candidates this time has not gone unnoticed and it has made political parties wary that they will cut into crucial votes.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh last month said that independent candidates were 'spoilers' and urged people not to vote for them.
Young voters are attracted to independent candidates.
Apurva Upadhyaya, a first time voter, says: "I will rather vote for a new and young party, may be an independent, as traditional parties have not been able to perform as well as they should have."
Lubna Asif, at 25, is one of the youngest Lok Sabha candidates and is contesting from Gautam Buddh Nagar constituency in Uttar Pradesh for the All India Minorities Front.
Achin Vinayak, political analyst and professor at Delhi University, agrees that the perception of politics and politicians is changing and holds the 26/11 Mumbai attacks as a key reason for this.
"I think 26/11 made the middle class think that they are also at threat, so they started blaming politicians and became active," Vinayak told IANS.
Vinayak, however, doesn't think that the trend of middle class people and professionals joining politics is automatically a good thing.
"We have good and bad people among professionals just like in any other category. It would be partial to blindly brand all these fellows 'good' and 'corruption free'," he maintained.
On similar lines, Ahmad cautioned: "As our democracy is party-based, if candidates don't have mainstream party support, it would be tough to function.
"The only way to bring about change is through mainstream parties because Indians do not vote for individuals; they vote for the party and so the chance of success of such a candidate is very less."
(Nabeel A. Khan can be contacted at nabeel.k@ians.in)
links for coverage
http://in.news.yahoo.com/43/20090505/812/tnl-professional-educated-and-aspiring-t.html
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20090506/delhi.htm#10
Comments by Readers on this story
Hello Mr. Nabeel A. Khan:
I read with much enthusiasm and pride the movement of Indian Youth in the Political
Arena. It is time to bring in young fresh minds and develop a new and improved
political system, Reduced number of parties, revised constitution that works for the
people, A BILL OF RIGHTS of citizens with Charter of Rights & Freedom, and much more
I have a Vision for my Nation written with a Passion that outlines a Mission
addressing the needs of every Generation, it touches on the Constitution, life for
the least of our Citizen and brings forth one LAW:
WHATSOEVER WE DO, IT MUST ADD VALUE UPGRADING TO THE MINIMUM NEED AND ENHANSING THE
QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE LEAST OF OUR CITIZEN.
Should you and your movement be interested I would be pleased to address a rally of
youth and instill in them Love & Spirit of our Nation to build it because only when
our country is rich and successful will all its citizen be as well. This can be
learnt by observing the developed nations and their administration of the running of
their nations.
Good Luck!!!!!
Anthony Saldanha
HI Anthony ji,
U make it sound as if India was not alive before the new breed came in. Let me
tell u that the locals are SO aware of Politics it is not funny. And the new
breed of IIT'S that you are sooo proud of, and talking about are no better
than the previous bunch. The previous one's have shown themsel\ves for what
they are, and this new breed will show themselves for what they are. I am
sorry to point out that they are going to be nothing better than mouthpieces
of the Whites'.
I would like to highlight one case in point. I met Shashi Tharoor recently,
and in a one to one conversation, i asked him why he does not fight to get
India out of the Nuke Deal, to which he said, u think the nuke deal is not
good, and i said tell me ONE thing that is good about the deal, and he said "
Indian Scientists were longing to go to the USA, and now they get their visas
easily and are visiting." This my dear sir , is the new breed.
I wanted to stand for elections but my name was not on the voter's list.
A Marigold (Goonda) is actually a bouquet of flowers - as each petal is a
complete flower in itself. Did u know this????
Dear Nabeel,
I am smriti from Bangalore working as a pr professional, read your article
and i really feel happy the way youngers are getting into politics and
willing to bring a change as we are really fedup with parties asking votes
for caste, religion,..we need change ,development,education..and this caste
and religion politics is going on from years and we havent achieved
anything..
It's high time to wake up and vote for the young, educated leaders ,hope to
see a positive change in our society instead of always cribbing about the
political system...
--
Thank You....
-----------------------------------------
Regards,
Smirit
Hi Nabeel,
A very good article posted in yahoo! I totally agree that India now
needs a profesional and an educated politicians who can change the face
of our nation. More importantly each and every politician should be
Accountable for their job which is the core for our nation's progress.
The last two lines from the article is very correct. "As our democracy
is...." Hope our mass understands where the actual gem is hidden.
Jai Hind,
Shreejith K.
Thank You Mr nabeel,
thank you for mentioning our party in your yahoo.com article
Best Regards
Sudhir
www.voteforfamily.net
15.4.09
A club of honourable auto-rickshaw drivers
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, Jan 13 (IANS) You are in a hurry and waiting for an auto-rickshaw. When it finally arrives, you are asked to pay an exorbitant fare. If you say no, you keep waiting. This everyday experience in India's capital may change, at least a little.
City-based NGO Nyaya Bhoomi has formed an Autorickshaw Star Club. Each member will take the vow to be an "Imandar Auto Chalak" (honourable auto driver, IAC in short) and be dedicated to reforming the black sheep image of auto-rickshaw drivers. Nyaya Bhoomi has been dedicated to improving the lives of auto-rickshaw drivers and their passengers for the past two years. The IAC will not refuse to carry a passenger, nor overcharge, nor break traffic rules.
They will be polite too. "We have given proper training to the drivers to ensure good conduct towards customers, run strictly on meter basis and not to refuse at all," Nyaya Bhoomi secretary Rakesh Agarwal told IANS. The club will regularly monitor the performance of the drivers and give them reward points. These points get converted into stars for the star club.
The club was launched Oct 14 last year. It has 80 members now - 40 on the roads and 40 more under training. "In Delhi there are more than 50,000 auto-rickshaws and over one lakh (100,000) drivers. We will try to reform their lives at the earliest. We hope to make over 15,000 auto-rickshaws join the club before the end of this year," Agarwal added. A man who has quit his export business to devote all his time to this cause, Agarwal also plans to give a proposal to the government, asking that the authorities train all auto-rickshaw drivers for at least 15 days each, and then run regular refresher courses.
Delhi Traffic Police had arranged a one-day workshop for auto-rickshaw drivers last November and December. "We have organised these workshops in various parts of Delhi. They were focussed on educating the drivers about their behaviour towards passengers and traffic rules," Delhi Traffic Police Joint Commissioner S.N. Srivastava told IANS. Drivers who have joined the Autorickshaw Star Club are happy, and hope passengers will now respect them as well.
"I have been running an auto-rickshaw in Delhi for more than 12 years. Recently I have joined this club. Now I enjoy respect from passengers as I run on meter only. Being educated about various traffic laws and the Motor Vehicles Act saves me from any kind of harassment from policemen or other officials. The club will soon provide all drivers a range of benefits such as insurance and pension plans, finance and bank accounts," Chandrabhan Singh told IANS.
The club will gather revenue through advertisements on the auto-rickshaws. Club members however have sometimes faced hostility from other drivers. "I was almost beaten and my auto-rickshaw was damaged in Janakpuri by drivers who felt I was ruining their business by running on meter," said Sitaram. Some auto-rickshaw drivers are sceptical about the club.
"I have seen many such clubs and unions, but there is no credibility. Sometimes such unions and clubs come up just to make money. I am happy with the way I am," said a driver who identified himself only as Sonu. But passengers who board the auto-rickshaw of a club member are pleasantly surprised. "I was surprised to see the poster on the auto-rickshaw saying 'Ek Imandar auto chalak'.
It was even more surprising to find their polite and professional way of talking and readily moving on meter. "Though I don't see many auto-rickshaws from this club, whenever I need an auto I pray I can find this hassle-free auto-rickshaw again." said an elated Pradeep Chaprana, a human resource executive with RNIS Pvt Ltd. "If all the auto drivers run on meter and follow good conduct, like the drivers from Autorickshaw Star Club, the city will certainly be a far better place to live in," said Nayeem Ahmed, an executive with software firm HCL.
http://www.yahind.com/articles/directory.php?id=970
New Delhi, Jan 13 (IANS) You are in a hurry and waiting for an auto-rickshaw. When it finally arrives, you are asked to pay an exorbitant fare. If you say no, you keep waiting. This everyday experience in India's capital may change, at least a little.
City-based NGO Nyaya Bhoomi has formed an Autorickshaw Star Club. Each member will take the vow to be an "Imandar Auto Chalak" (honourable auto driver, IAC in short) and be dedicated to reforming the black sheep image of auto-rickshaw drivers. Nyaya Bhoomi has been dedicated to improving the lives of auto-rickshaw drivers and their passengers for the past two years. The IAC will not refuse to carry a passenger, nor overcharge, nor break traffic rules.
They will be polite too. "We have given proper training to the drivers to ensure good conduct towards customers, run strictly on meter basis and not to refuse at all," Nyaya Bhoomi secretary Rakesh Agarwal told IANS. The club will regularly monitor the performance of the drivers and give them reward points. These points get converted into stars for the star club.
The club was launched Oct 14 last year. It has 80 members now - 40 on the roads and 40 more under training. "In Delhi there are more than 50,000 auto-rickshaws and over one lakh (100,000) drivers. We will try to reform their lives at the earliest. We hope to make over 15,000 auto-rickshaws join the club before the end of this year," Agarwal added. A man who has quit his export business to devote all his time to this cause, Agarwal also plans to give a proposal to the government, asking that the authorities train all auto-rickshaw drivers for at least 15 days each, and then run regular refresher courses.
Delhi Traffic Police had arranged a one-day workshop for auto-rickshaw drivers last November and December. "We have organised these workshops in various parts of Delhi. They were focussed on educating the drivers about their behaviour towards passengers and traffic rules," Delhi Traffic Police Joint Commissioner S.N. Srivastava told IANS. Drivers who have joined the Autorickshaw Star Club are happy, and hope passengers will now respect them as well.
"I have been running an auto-rickshaw in Delhi for more than 12 years. Recently I have joined this club. Now I enjoy respect from passengers as I run on meter only. Being educated about various traffic laws and the Motor Vehicles Act saves me from any kind of harassment from policemen or other officials. The club will soon provide all drivers a range of benefits such as insurance and pension plans, finance and bank accounts," Chandrabhan Singh told IANS.
The club will gather revenue through advertisements on the auto-rickshaws. Club members however have sometimes faced hostility from other drivers. "I was almost beaten and my auto-rickshaw was damaged in Janakpuri by drivers who felt I was ruining their business by running on meter," said Sitaram. Some auto-rickshaw drivers are sceptical about the club.
"I have seen many such clubs and unions, but there is no credibility. Sometimes such unions and clubs come up just to make money. I am happy with the way I am," said a driver who identified himself only as Sonu. But passengers who board the auto-rickshaw of a club member are pleasantly surprised. "I was surprised to see the poster on the auto-rickshaw saying 'Ek Imandar auto chalak'.
It was even more surprising to find their polite and professional way of talking and readily moving on meter. "Though I don't see many auto-rickshaws from this club, whenever I need an auto I pray I can find this hassle-free auto-rickshaw again." said an elated Pradeep Chaprana, a human resource executive with RNIS Pvt Ltd. "If all the auto drivers run on meter and follow good conduct, like the drivers from Autorickshaw Star Club, the city will certainly be a far better place to live in," said Nayeem Ahmed, an executive with software firm HCL.
http://www.yahind.com/articles/directory.php?id=970
14.4.09
Should voting be compulsory? Of course, say many Indians
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, March 20 (IANS) Voting should be made compulsory -- that seems to be the general consensus binding celebrities and common people alike as the country hurtles towards another election, though politicians themselves are divided.
Making voting mandatory may be a controversial move, but there seemed to be little debate on the matter with an overwhelming number of people that IANS spoke to for it. Governance will improve and democracy will get strengthened if voting is made compulsory is the view as another general election looms ahead. Everyone has a stake, from the villager in Poonch to the star film director in Mumbai. Mohammed Khursheed from Dodi village in Jammu and Kashmir's troubled district of Poonch, which is close to the Line of Control (LoC) that divides Kashmir between India and Pakistan and has seen more than its share of terrorist violence, said: "Everyone should vote and if the government makes it necessary, it will be the best." "In my village, there are no roads or electricity and water supply. If everyone votes, I hope it will change our fortune," Khursheed told IANS. Sanjay Sharma from Khapare village of Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district wanted voting to be made mandatory so as to involve "even those who talk on TV and write in newspapers but do not vote". "Voting should be made a compulsory duty. Then no one can ignore it and voting percentage will increase. This will ensure a right person wins the election," contended Hemchandra Lohani, a freelance trekking instructor from Uttarakhand. Sneha Shekhawat, a New Delhi-based project manager with a multinational corporation, said mandatory voting would be a great idea, but the government should also introduce easier options to vote, like through SMS or Internet. Management student Manoj Agarwal of New Delhi also said felt mandatory voting will definitely ensure the right candidate is elected, but there should also be an option to recall the representative. At the other end of the spectrum was filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar who said categorically: "Voting should be made mandatory... it will help (people) choose the right kind of representative at every level." If voting is made compulsory, the people will not blame politicians for everything, Bhandarkar told IANS. Charging politicians with misguiding people, film director Abhigyan Jha said he supported the move but suggested that there should also be provision to vote for none of the candidates and for cancellation of candidature. Actress Mandira Bedi, who admitted being impressed with a TV commercial ("Jago Re") encouraging people to vote, said: "Post-26/11 so many people said we do not want to vote, but that is a wrong approach. Voting should be made mandatory, but unfortunately the system is not in place. "I think it is rightly said that if you do not vote, you are sleeping." Agreeing with Mandira, actor and TV host Shekhar Suman said: "I think now the time has come that we should become responsible and vote. We cannot only blame politicians, if we have not done our bit." "If voting is made mandatory, then more and more educated and deserving people will get into power," he said, adding that he, however, did not advocate "anything being done at gun point". Though Bharatiya Janata Party's Prakash Javadekar agreed, Congress leader Salman Khursheed said any kind of policing was not right. "As democracy is maturing, the voting percentage is also increasing; so we should give a serious thinking on making voting compulsory for every citizen," Javadekar said here, adding this also required removal of mistakes from electoral rolls. "We should also ensure that there is no bogus voting." Striking a different note, Khursheed said: "It is not possible to implement compulsory voting in India. Those who advocate this idea do not know the reality of India. We do not even have polling boths everywhere and people have to walk kilometres to vote. "There is no proper arrangement of voter ID cards. How can we expect to implement compulsory voting successfully?" Khursheed asked. Voting is compulsory in over 30 countries.
http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Should+voting+be+compulsory?+Of+course,+say+many+Indians&artid=PucyzGDqFdA=&SectionID=AMqePYI/D30=&MainSectionID=aZcEE40zV1s=&SectionName=r%7C6ubJhvSMue9wsQ1WPQJg==&SEO=Elections,+India
http://www.aol.in/news-story/should-voting-be-compulsory-of-course-say-many-indians/2009032001489012000009
http://www.samachaar.in/Politics/Should_voting_be_compulsory_-_Of_course,_say_many_Indians_80957/
New Delhi, March 20 (IANS) Voting should be made compulsory -- that seems to be the general consensus binding celebrities and common people alike as the country hurtles towards another election, though politicians themselves are divided.
Making voting mandatory may be a controversial move, but there seemed to be little debate on the matter with an overwhelming number of people that IANS spoke to for it. Governance will improve and democracy will get strengthened if voting is made compulsory is the view as another general election looms ahead. Everyone has a stake, from the villager in Poonch to the star film director in Mumbai. Mohammed Khursheed from Dodi village in Jammu and Kashmir's troubled district of Poonch, which is close to the Line of Control (LoC) that divides Kashmir between India and Pakistan and has seen more than its share of terrorist violence, said: "Everyone should vote and if the government makes it necessary, it will be the best." "In my village, there are no roads or electricity and water supply. If everyone votes, I hope it will change our fortune," Khursheed told IANS. Sanjay Sharma from Khapare village of Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district wanted voting to be made mandatory so as to involve "even those who talk on TV and write in newspapers but do not vote". "Voting should be made a compulsory duty. Then no one can ignore it and voting percentage will increase. This will ensure a right person wins the election," contended Hemchandra Lohani, a freelance trekking instructor from Uttarakhand. Sneha Shekhawat, a New Delhi-based project manager with a multinational corporation, said mandatory voting would be a great idea, but the government should also introduce easier options to vote, like through SMS or Internet. Management student Manoj Agarwal of New Delhi also said felt mandatory voting will definitely ensure the right candidate is elected, but there should also be an option to recall the representative. At the other end of the spectrum was filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar who said categorically: "Voting should be made mandatory... it will help (people) choose the right kind of representative at every level." If voting is made compulsory, the people will not blame politicians for everything, Bhandarkar told IANS. Charging politicians with misguiding people, film director Abhigyan Jha said he supported the move but suggested that there should also be provision to vote for none of the candidates and for cancellation of candidature. Actress Mandira Bedi, who admitted being impressed with a TV commercial ("Jago Re") encouraging people to vote, said: "Post-26/11 so many people said we do not want to vote, but that is a wrong approach. Voting should be made mandatory, but unfortunately the system is not in place. "I think it is rightly said that if you do not vote, you are sleeping." Agreeing with Mandira, actor and TV host Shekhar Suman said: "I think now the time has come that we should become responsible and vote. We cannot only blame politicians, if we have not done our bit." "If voting is made mandatory, then more and more educated and deserving people will get into power," he said, adding that he, however, did not advocate "anything being done at gun point". Though Bharatiya Janata Party's Prakash Javadekar agreed, Congress leader Salman Khursheed said any kind of policing was not right. "As democracy is maturing, the voting percentage is also increasing; so we should give a serious thinking on making voting compulsory for every citizen," Javadekar said here, adding this also required removal of mistakes from electoral rolls. "We should also ensure that there is no bogus voting." Striking a different note, Khursheed said: "It is not possible to implement compulsory voting in India. Those who advocate this idea do not know the reality of India. We do not even have polling boths everywhere and people have to walk kilometres to vote. "There is no proper arrangement of voter ID cards. How can we expect to implement compulsory voting successfully?" Khursheed asked. Voting is compulsory in over 30 countries.
http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Should+voting+be+compulsory?+Of+course,+say+many+Indians&artid=PucyzGDqFdA=&SectionID=AMqePYI/D30=&MainSectionID=aZcEE40zV1s=&SectionName=r%7C6ubJhvSMue9wsQ1WPQJg==&SEO=Elections,+India
http://www.aol.in/news-story/should-voting-be-compulsory-of-course-say-many-indians/2009032001489012000009
http://www.samachaar.in/Politics/Should_voting_be_compulsory_-_Of_course,_say_many_Indians_80957/
'Most Indians don't think of fashion when buying shoes'
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) Satyam's fallen head Ramalinga Raju owned a whopping 321 pairs of shoes, but most Indians are content with a few, which they choose for comfort and durability rather than fashion, much to the chagrin of the footwear industry.
"We feel fashion only means clothing. We might buy designer suits and other clothes but shoes are never considered a part of making a fashion statement. You see a person earning Rs.2 million wearing the same kind of shoes which a person earning Rs.20,000 wears," Abdul Tawwab Khan, a professional footwear designer, told IANS. Khan launched a men's footwear collection in the Lakme Fashion Week in 2007, and a second collection in 2008. He felt that even celebrity fashion icons were ignorant about footwear fashion. "All those who visited my stall (in the fashion week), including many celebrities, were surprised when they asked the price (of the shoes). They immediately asked where the shoes were made. They consider that footwear is not an area where we spend money. So my aim is to make people aware that good shoes are made in India as well," Khan said. According to industry reports, the Indian footwear industry was said to be worth $1.48 billion in 2008, making it the second largest global producer of footwear after China. The country produces over two billion pairs of different categories of footwear and nearly 95 percent of its production goes to meet its own domestic demand. The export is targeted to reach $3.43 billion in 2008-09, and is expected to reach $4.53 billion by 2010-11. India exports footwear to around 30 countries. Despite that, "when it comes to fashion what comes to my mind are shirts, trousers and suits but never the thought of shoes to make a fashion statement," aspiring model Abhishek said. "We have not been spending much on shoes. A lady can spend hundreds of thousands on lehngas but she will not spend Rs.2,000 on footwear," owner of Mirza International Tauseef Mirza told IANS. The firm has footwear brands like Red Tape. "Fashion in footwear is still a dream. What I bought last year is still on the shelves this year. There is no innovation. I have been trying to get a good pair of shoes for my sister's wedding for three days, but all in vain," said Amit, a customer at a footwear outlet here. Lokesh Mishra, general manager of clothes and footwear retail store Woodland, said: "There are only a limited number of players in the footwear industry. In India there is an acute lack of funds for research and development in this industry. No company wants to experiment, they just see whichever design has a good market and they copy from each other." Designer Abdul Tawwab Khan, however, sees a bright future in India for footwear fashion, though he knows progress will be slow. Mishra also feels that the footwear fashion industry in the country will come of age. "People are getting interested in footwear fashion. They ask for good designs. It's a slow process but within two to three years footwear fashion will turn around."
Follow the links
http://newsx.com/story/45980
http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-101181.html
New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) Satyam's fallen head Ramalinga Raju owned a whopping 321 pairs of shoes, but most Indians are content with a few, which they choose for comfort and durability rather than fashion, much to the chagrin of the footwear industry.
"We feel fashion only means clothing. We might buy designer suits and other clothes but shoes are never considered a part of making a fashion statement. You see a person earning Rs.2 million wearing the same kind of shoes which a person earning Rs.20,000 wears," Abdul Tawwab Khan, a professional footwear designer, told IANS. Khan launched a men's footwear collection in the Lakme Fashion Week in 2007, and a second collection in 2008. He felt that even celebrity fashion icons were ignorant about footwear fashion. "All those who visited my stall (in the fashion week), including many celebrities, were surprised when they asked the price (of the shoes). They immediately asked where the shoes were made. They consider that footwear is not an area where we spend money. So my aim is to make people aware that good shoes are made in India as well," Khan said. According to industry reports, the Indian footwear industry was said to be worth $1.48 billion in 2008, making it the second largest global producer of footwear after China. The country produces over two billion pairs of different categories of footwear and nearly 95 percent of its production goes to meet its own domestic demand. The export is targeted to reach $3.43 billion in 2008-09, and is expected to reach $4.53 billion by 2010-11. India exports footwear to around 30 countries. Despite that, "when it comes to fashion what comes to my mind are shirts, trousers and suits but never the thought of shoes to make a fashion statement," aspiring model Abhishek said. "We have not been spending much on shoes. A lady can spend hundreds of thousands on lehngas but she will not spend Rs.2,000 on footwear," owner of Mirza International Tauseef Mirza told IANS. The firm has footwear brands like Red Tape. "Fashion in footwear is still a dream. What I bought last year is still on the shelves this year. There is no innovation. I have been trying to get a good pair of shoes for my sister's wedding for three days, but all in vain," said Amit, a customer at a footwear outlet here. Lokesh Mishra, general manager of clothes and footwear retail store Woodland, said: "There are only a limited number of players in the footwear industry. In India there is an acute lack of funds for research and development in this industry. No company wants to experiment, they just see whichever design has a good market and they copy from each other." Designer Abdul Tawwab Khan, however, sees a bright future in India for footwear fashion, though he knows progress will be slow. Mishra also feels that the footwear fashion industry in the country will come of age. "People are getting interested in footwear fashion. They ask for good designs. It's a slow process but within two to three years footwear fashion will turn around."
Follow the links
http://newsx.com/story/45980
http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-101181.html
Enticing Lebanese flavours whet Delhi's appetite
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) From roadside kiosks and small eateries to fancy restaurants and lounge bars, Lebanese cuisine is tingling taste buds across the capital. The number of those in love with spicy shawarma, melt-in-the mouth hummus and crispy falafel keeps rising.
One of the most popular Lebanese food joints is Al Bake in the posh New Friends Colony market. The small eatery is thronged by college students wanting to gorge on the shawarma here, which costs only Rs.25. Served with a tangy sauce, the shawarma consists of finely chopped grilled chicken rolled in Lebanese pita bread. Two such rolls are enough to satiate anyone's hunger.
"After working for more that 20 years in Saudi Arabia as a kitchen supervisor in a restaurant, I returned and opened this joint with just one table eight years ago. Today, people from across the city come here. I really don't know how the popularity has intensified like this," M.Z. Beg, owner of Al Bake, told IANS.
Rosy Ibram, a student of the nearby Jamia Millia University, said: "This is a very suitable place for us as it is pocket friendly and the taste is incredible. I have been coming here regularly for the past four years, mainly for the shawarma."
Another small eatery serving Lebanese fare that regularly attracts food lovers is Arabian Nites in the Basant Lok market in south Delhi. However, the delicacies here cost a little more. The shawarma at Rs.75 is on the top of visitors' wishlists but also popular are the felafel for Rs.60 and hummus - a dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas - for Rs.35. "We come here to eat Lebanese food very often and my favourite is the shawarma. I guess it is healthy as the chicken stays on the grill for a long time and all fats are burnt," said Prabal, an executive with Accenture India.
At Lebanese Point in the PVR Saket complex, the shawarma costs Rs.70 per piece while the felafel is for Rs.50. "I have been here for over five years and the number of people coming here keeps increasing. The food is popular among all sections of society, even celebrities," said Bhagwan Das, owner of Lebanese Point. Lebanese Point was first started in Mumbai and its whopping success inspired Bhagwan Das to open a branch in New Delhi.
"A lot of the stuff that we eat in India has originated in the Middle East. For example, kebabs came from Lebanon. Most of the spices and ingredients of Lebanese food are the same as what we use here, except for olive oil. Hence, Indian have a sense of familiarity with the cuisine," Rahul Varma, a food writer, told IANS.
For a chic and elaborate Lebanese experience, the well-heeled in the capital head to Shalom Lounge Bar in Greater Kailash Part-I, where a typical meal in the special setting can set you back by Rs.700 per head. Kebab Krazy, a restaurant in Sector 18 of Noida, offers those in the suburbs the chance to indulge in Lebanese mezzeh.
"The most popular dish is felafel, which costs Rs.185 per portion. Two rolls of shawarma cost Rs.285, while hummus is complimentary on the purchase of shawarma and felafel. The main reason for the rising popularity of Lebanese food is that it's less oily, less spicy and very healthy," Joseph Gomes, chef at Kebab Krazzy, told IANS.
Aditya Uppal, a TV channel anchor, said: "Initially I didn't know anything about Lebanese food but once I tried it I became a big fan. I just look for a reason to treat myself to a shawarma." "With a lot of Indians travelling abroad, they have become adventurous and are willing to try various cuisines. Even vegetarians can handle Lebanese, Greek and other mediterranean food," said Varma.
In fact, Curves, a restaurant in Pune, is famous for serving only vegetarian Lebanese food. In the national capital region, The Deck at the India Habitat Centre and Oz in the suburb of Guragaon are well-known for their variety of Lebanese vegetarian options.
While there are various joints that sell Lebanese food across India, Raffi Aslanian, a Syrian national who resides here, claims to have been the first to introduce the cuisine in the country 20 years ago. "We provided food and catering to embassies, top five star hotels, caterers, corporates and individuals of all categories.
Now I have launched the Mosaic Club restaurant in Vasant Kunj, where I am the principal chef," said Aslanian. At Mosaic Club, one shawarma costs Rs.75, felafel Rs.50 and one plate of hummus Rs.70. A perfect ending to the tongue-tingling food is the traditional Mediterranean dessert baklawa, which is made with filo pastry, nuts, butter and sugar, and melts in the mouth.
Please follow the links http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=lifestylesectionpage&id=25a22425-f499-4f59-882a-3239996db868&Headline=Enticing+Lebanese+flavours+whet+Delhi http://www.aol.in/news-story/enticing-lebanese-flavours-whet-delhis-appetite/2009022700239012000003 http://samachaar.in/Business_and_Economy/Enticing_Lebanese_flavours_whet_Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) From roadside kiosks and small eateries to fancy restaurants and lounge bars, Lebanese cuisine is tingling taste buds across the capital. The number of those in love with spicy shawarma, melt-in-the mouth hummus and crispy falafel keeps rising.
One of the most popular Lebanese food joints is Al Bake in the posh New Friends Colony market. The small eatery is thronged by college students wanting to gorge on the shawarma here, which costs only Rs.25. Served with a tangy sauce, the shawarma consists of finely chopped grilled chicken rolled in Lebanese pita bread. Two such rolls are enough to satiate anyone's hunger.
"After working for more that 20 years in Saudi Arabia as a kitchen supervisor in a restaurant, I returned and opened this joint with just one table eight years ago. Today, people from across the city come here. I really don't know how the popularity has intensified like this," M.Z. Beg, owner of Al Bake, told IANS.
Rosy Ibram, a student of the nearby Jamia Millia University, said: "This is a very suitable place for us as it is pocket friendly and the taste is incredible. I have been coming here regularly for the past four years, mainly for the shawarma."
Another small eatery serving Lebanese fare that regularly attracts food lovers is Arabian Nites in the Basant Lok market in south Delhi. However, the delicacies here cost a little more. The shawarma at Rs.75 is on the top of visitors' wishlists but also popular are the felafel for Rs.60 and hummus - a dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas - for Rs.35. "We come here to eat Lebanese food very often and my favourite is the shawarma. I guess it is healthy as the chicken stays on the grill for a long time and all fats are burnt," said Prabal, an executive with Accenture India.
At Lebanese Point in the PVR Saket complex, the shawarma costs Rs.70 per piece while the felafel is for Rs.50. "I have been here for over five years and the number of people coming here keeps increasing. The food is popular among all sections of society, even celebrities," said Bhagwan Das, owner of Lebanese Point. Lebanese Point was first started in Mumbai and its whopping success inspired Bhagwan Das to open a branch in New Delhi.
"A lot of the stuff that we eat in India has originated in the Middle East. For example, kebabs came from Lebanon. Most of the spices and ingredients of Lebanese food are the same as what we use here, except for olive oil. Hence, Indian have a sense of familiarity with the cuisine," Rahul Varma, a food writer, told IANS.
For a chic and elaborate Lebanese experience, the well-heeled in the capital head to Shalom Lounge Bar in Greater Kailash Part-I, where a typical meal in the special setting can set you back by Rs.700 per head. Kebab Krazy, a restaurant in Sector 18 of Noida, offers those in the suburbs the chance to indulge in Lebanese mezzeh.
"The most popular dish is felafel, which costs Rs.185 per portion. Two rolls of shawarma cost Rs.285, while hummus is complimentary on the purchase of shawarma and felafel. The main reason for the rising popularity of Lebanese food is that it's less oily, less spicy and very healthy," Joseph Gomes, chef at Kebab Krazzy, told IANS.
Aditya Uppal, a TV channel anchor, said: "Initially I didn't know anything about Lebanese food but once I tried it I became a big fan. I just look for a reason to treat myself to a shawarma." "With a lot of Indians travelling abroad, they have become adventurous and are willing to try various cuisines. Even vegetarians can handle Lebanese, Greek and other mediterranean food," said Varma.
In fact, Curves, a restaurant in Pune, is famous for serving only vegetarian Lebanese food. In the national capital region, The Deck at the India Habitat Centre and Oz in the suburb of Guragaon are well-known for their variety of Lebanese vegetarian options.
While there are various joints that sell Lebanese food across India, Raffi Aslanian, a Syrian national who resides here, claims to have been the first to introduce the cuisine in the country 20 years ago. "We provided food and catering to embassies, top five star hotels, caterers, corporates and individuals of all categories.
Now I have launched the Mosaic Club restaurant in Vasant Kunj, where I am the principal chef," said Aslanian. At Mosaic Club, one shawarma costs Rs.75, felafel Rs.50 and one plate of hummus Rs.70. A perfect ending to the tongue-tingling food is the traditional Mediterranean dessert baklawa, which is made with filo pastry, nuts, butter and sugar, and melts in the mouth.
Please follow the links http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=lifestylesectionpage&id=25a22425-f499-4f59-882a-3239996db868&Headline=Enticing+Lebanese+flavours+whet+Delhi http://www.aol.in/news-story/enticing-lebanese-flavours-whet-delhis-appetite/2009022700239012000003 http://samachaar.in/Business_and_Economy/Enticing_Lebanese_flavours_whet_Delhi
One day Rahul Gandhi will be PM: Salman Khurshid
By Nabeel A. Khan
For coverage please click the links below
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=HomePage&id=f1cd2232-732c-42ab-b51b-990aa558f0e4&ParentID=78ac2e24-e907-42e1-8846-b10c3d146ebb&Headline=
http://www1.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Rahul-to-be-PM-one-day-for-now-Manmohans-our-choice/articleshow/3992448.cms
http://www.zeenews.com/nation/2009-01-18/499373news.html
http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-76445.html
It was "very obvious" that Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi would be India's prime minister one day, but for now Manmohan Singh remained the prime ministerial candidate, party leader Salman Khurshid has said.
In a wide-ranging interview in New Delhi, Khurshid also said that Muslims were leaning towards the Congress in Uttar Pradesh but would vote for it only if they felt it was in a position to win, and so an electoral tie-up was needed with the Samajwadi Party ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.
Khurshid, a former chief of the Uttar Pradesh Congress and a former minister of state for external affairs, was asked if Rahul Gandhi, son of Congress president Sonia Gandhi, would be the next prime minister of the country.
"Rahul Gandhi is going to play a very major role in these elections," the Congress veteran told IANS, referring to the coming Lok Sabha elections.
"I think we have to let him make up his mind. He would make up his mind or his mother will decide for him. He doesn't seem to be in a hurry. He knows what he is doing and he is enjoying it.
"Yet, it is very obvious that one day he is going to be prime minister, I hope he becomes a very young PM, why not? I think it is very clear that he is amongst top leaders and it is also very clear that he strongly believes in a sense of propriety and democracy.
"Let the appropriate time come, he will be anointed or he would step forward to take (up) the responsibility," Khurshid said. "Right now he is trying to build the party. We should appreciate him for that."
So who is the Congress' prime ministerial candidate this time?
"I think we have a very good prime minister today and we have not been told that he is retiring," Khurshid said. "We have a prime minister, therefore we don't need a candidate. He is a highly respected man; he has steered us in a very difficult time."
Khurshid said the need of the hour in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, was a tie-up between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, which came together last year after years of bitter rivalry.
Arguing that people were inclined to vote along caste lines and that Muslims held the trump card, Khurshid said the winner in Uttar Pradesh would be determined by which way the Muslim vote went.
"So, in order to revive our fortune, we will have to understand the equation of caste along with the Muslim vote. I think this is a long process and cannot be done overnight.
"Muslims are undecided, but they are more with the Congress now than in the past 10 years. They would be willing to go along with the Congress, but they want to see a winnable position. They will vote for the Congress only if it wins. That's why an alliance with the Samajwadi Party is very important for us."
Khurshid insisted that a Congress-Samajwadi Party tie-up in Uttar Pradesh "will have a far-reaching impact on the fortune of both the parties... Moreover this alliance will not only impact the Congress but also (decide)what happens to the next (central) government and what happens to the country. I think both the parties understand this sense of responsibility".
"Having said that, I think this is not an easy proposition. We haven't worked with each other for years. It would be a very sad thing if we don't have an alliance."
Khurshid said he had no idea why film star Sanjay Dutt, sister of Congress MP Priya Dutt, had reportedly consented to fight the elections on the Samajwadi Party ticket from Lucknow. "It is his choice."
He said anyone contesting in Lucknow, now represented in parliament by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, would have to be high-profile. The Congress was considering some names, he added.
Khurshid said he disagreed with those who felt that aggression was good in politics.
"Everything is not an 'akhara'," he said. "People think politics is an akhara, but politics is not necessarily an akhara."
In a wide-ranging interview in New Delhi, Khurshid also said that Muslims were leaning towards the Congress in Uttar Pradesh but would vote for it only if they felt it was in a position to win, and so an electoral tie-up was needed with the Samajwadi Party ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.
Khurshid, a former chief of the Uttar Pradesh Congress and a former minister of state for external affairs, was asked if Rahul Gandhi, son of Congress president Sonia Gandhi, would be the next prime minister of the country.
"Rahul Gandhi is going to play a very major role in these elections," the Congress veteran told IANS, referring to the coming Lok Sabha elections.
"I think we have to let him make up his mind. He would make up his mind or his mother will decide for him. He doesn't seem to be in a hurry. He knows what he is doing and he is enjoying it.
"Yet, it is very obvious that one day he is going to be prime minister, I hope he becomes a very young PM, why not? I think it is very clear that he is amongst top leaders and it is also very clear that he strongly believes in a sense of propriety and democracy.
"Let the appropriate time come, he will be anointed or he would step forward to take (up) the responsibility," Khurshid said. "Right now he is trying to build the party. We should appreciate him for that."
So who is the Congress' prime ministerial candidate this time?
"I think we have a very good prime minister today and we have not been told that he is retiring," Khurshid said. "We have a prime minister, therefore we don't need a candidate. He is a highly respected man; he has steered us in a very difficult time."
Khurshid said the need of the hour in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, was a tie-up between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, which came together last year after years of bitter rivalry.
Arguing that people were inclined to vote along caste lines and that Muslims held the trump card, Khurshid said the winner in Uttar Pradesh would be determined by which way the Muslim vote went.
"So, in order to revive our fortune, we will have to understand the equation of caste along with the Muslim vote. I think this is a long process and cannot be done overnight.
"Muslims are undecided, but they are more with the Congress now than in the past 10 years. They would be willing to go along with the Congress, but they want to see a winnable position. They will vote for the Congress only if it wins. That's why an alliance with the Samajwadi Party is very important for us."
Khurshid insisted that a Congress-Samajwadi Party tie-up in Uttar Pradesh "will have a far-reaching impact on the fortune of both the parties... Moreover this alliance will not only impact the Congress but also (decide)what happens to the next (central) government and what happens to the country. I think both the parties understand this sense of responsibility".
"Having said that, I think this is not an easy proposition. We haven't worked with each other for years. It would be a very sad thing if we don't have an alliance."
Khurshid said he had no idea why film star Sanjay Dutt, sister of Congress MP Priya Dutt, had reportedly consented to fight the elections on the Samajwadi Party ticket from Lucknow. "It is his choice."
He said anyone contesting in Lucknow, now represented in parliament by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, would have to be high-profile. The Congress was considering some names, he added.
Khurshid said he disagreed with those who felt that aggression was good in politics.
"Everything is not an 'akhara'," he said. "People think politics is an akhara, but politics is not necessarily an akhara."
For coverage please click the links below
http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=HomePage&id=f1cd2232-732c-42ab-b51b-990aa558f0e4&ParentID=78ac2e24-e907-42e1-8846-b10c3d146ebb&Headline=
http://www1.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Rahul-to-be-PM-one-day-for-now-Manmohans-our-choice/articleshow/3992448.cms
http://www.zeenews.com/nation/2009-01-18/499373news.html
http://www.newkerala.com/topstory-fullnews-76445.html
Terrorism should be subject of study in schools - Kiran Bedi
By Nabeel A. Khan
New Delhi: Terrorism should be taught as a subject in schools so that Indian youth become more aware of the scourge, says celebrated former police officer Kiran Bedi.
As the country continues to debate the larger ramifications of terror attacks in many cities, Bedi, the first woman officer in the Indian Police Service and a Magsaysay Award winner for her jail reforms, said: "Terrorism should be introduced in schools as a subject. It is very important that our youth be aware of it. NSS [National Service Scheme], NCC [National Cadet Corps] and the Scouts and Guides should dedicate special sessions on terrorism awareness."
NSS and NCC are both co-curricular activities in high schools and colleges around India.
Bedi was worried that people tended to forget about terror attacks soon after they occurred. Apart from introducing the subject in schools, "society should come forward and start participating through team policing", she said.
"Only state police, without civilian support, cannot easily stop or prevent acts of terror and for this we need to make our society aware."
Support
In the political spectrum, there is bipartisan support for the idea.
Bharatiya Janata Party spokesman Prakash Javadekar said it was the primarily the duty of police to protect the lives of citizens, but added that public help in combating terrorism was equally necessary.
"The people on the street, like small shopowners, vendors and parking attendants should be trained and sensitised against such incidents. Such people can also contribute to providing information to the intelligence," Javadekar said.
His party's youth wing "may start a campaign to spread awareness and alertness among the people through a scientific and logical approach", he added.
Congress party leader Salman Khurshid said fortifying communication between people and agencies was very important.
"Network of information between people and police is very important in combating terrorism and for this we need to remove people's cynicism towards police. Everywhere some people are good and some people are bad; the same goes for police," Khurshid said.
Both political leaders felt NGOs should come forward and create awareness in different communities about the evils of terrorism.
Academics also favoured the idea of NGOs and social organisations creating awareness and alertness against terrorism.
"People are still not alert against terrorism and for this reason social organisations and NGOs [non-government organisations] should start awareness campaigns," Alok Puranik, writer and lecturer in Delhi University, said.
Social activist Harsh Dobhal said targeting any particular community after a terror attack only makes matters worse. Government agencies should work in an unbiased manner to ensure equality is maintained among the people of all religions, castes and creeds, he added.
"Government agencies should act in a responsible manner. Innocent people or a particular community should not be falsely implicated. The police bring a new mastermind every day [following a terror attack]. Their statements are contradictory, which is bound to raise doubts. The police need to build faith in the people's minds."
Shabnam Hashemi, another social activist, wanted the media too to act in a more responsible manner.
"The media is trying to be judgmental, they announce their verdict even before the judiciary does that. More often the media is acting as a mouthpiece of police and polarising the opinion. That is very irresponsible," she said.
For the coverage please click the links below
http://www.igovernment.in/site/Kiran-Bedi-for-terrorism-in-school-curriculum/
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