Mursi sworn in as first elected president of Egypt

Egypt, has its fateful day, its elected  president by the people, Mohammed Mursi has been sworn in as the first freely elected President of the country. The swearing in ceremony took place before the Supreme Constitutional Court in Cairo on Saturday. He will be addressing the nation for the first time as the President of Egypt before Cairo University shortly.

The oath taking ceremony took place before 19 member Supreme Constitutional Court in Cairo a short while ago.  Mohammed Mursi is a US educated Engineer from Nile delta who rose from a humble background to the highest ranks of the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood. The first civilian President of Egypt will have to contend with the military which has assumed sweeping powers.

Mohamed Mursi to be sworn in Saturday before the Constitutional Court, the presidency announced after differences with the army over the transfer of power. Mursi “will go at 11 am (0900 GMT) Saturday to the Constitutional Court to take the oath before the Court’s general assembly,” said a statement released by the official MENA news agency. Mursi thereafter  go on to Cairo University to celebrate his investiture and address the nation, the statement added. Egypt’s president traditionally takes the oath in parliament, but the country’s top court has ordered the disbanding of the Islamist-dominated legislature.

  By agreeing to be sworn in by the Constitutional Court, Mursi is effectively acknowledging the court’s decision to dissolve parliament.The Muslim Brotherhood, which fielded Mursi as its candidate in the election and from which he resigned after his victory, had insisted that the oath be taken before the legislature.

A debate around the issue of swearing in and attempts are being made to reach a compromise that will satisfy all national forces,” MENA quoted Mursi’s spokesman Yasser Ali as saying earlier. Egypt’s first civilian president, and the first elected since an uprising ousted president Hosni Mubarak last year, still has to contend with the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces.The SCAF, which took control after Mubarak resigned, will retain broad powers even after it formally transfers control to Mursi.

 ”Media reports said Mursi was consulting a cross-section of Egyptian society before appointing a premier and a cabinet mostly made up of technocrats and work on new a constitution

Mursi, the Muslim Brotherhood's candidate, read the oath before the Supreme Constitutional Court, and then speak at Cairo University, before going to an army base for the handover from military rule.Transfer of power  at the Heikstep base by Field Marshal Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, former defence minister for two decades, to hand over to Mursi,thus  making way for an elected president by July 1.

Mursi, the first President since the king was toppled by army officers in 1952 who was not drawn from top military ranks. Muslim Brotherhood, an outfit which propelled Mursi to office, it marks a dramatic reversal of fortunes after decades of repression. He was to be sworn in at 11 a.m. (CET) by the constitutional court, rather than by parliament as is usual.

Mursi took an informal oath of office on Friday in a speech to supporters in Cairo's Tahrir Square, in a slap at the generals trying to limit his power.Paying tribute to Egypt's Muslims and Christians alike, Mursi symbolically swore himself in as the country's first elected civilian president.Mursi, who won a run-off election earlier this month, was received with applause by the tens of thousands of people gathered in the birthplace of the revolt that overthrew dictator Hosni Mubarak last year.He promised a "civilian state" and praised "the square of the revolution, the square of freedom," in what he called an address to "the free world, Arabs, Muslims... the Muslims of Egypt, Christians of Egypt."
"There is no power above people power," the former Muslim Brotherhood figure declared to wild cheers from the crowd."I was one of you and I still am, and I will continue to always be one of you. I came to you because I believe that you are the source of power and legitimacy above all sides," he added.
 Thus Muris had sworn in at Tahrir Square in front of his supporters where he pledged to form a civilian, nationalist and constitutional Government where power flows from the people of Egypt -Muslims and Christians alike.
Media agencies

Lagarde:IMF to support Egypt

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde has told new Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi that the world functional body is ready to support Egypt.

Lagarde called Morsi on Thursday to congratulate him on his election as president of Egypt, which represents an important step forward in Egypts transition, said the IMF.

"They discussed Egypt's economic situation and how best the IMF could help in the period ahead. The MD reiterated that the IMF stands ready to support Egypt and looks forward to working closely with the authorities," an IMF spokeswoman said.

Mercosur Suspends Paraguay

By sagarmedia on June 30, 2012 | 

South American trading bloc Mercosur has suspended Paraguay’s membership in the organization while approving Venezuela as a new member, Mexican media reported.
Presidents of Mercosur member-countries gathered on Friday in Mendoza, Argentina, for an emergency summit following the recent impeachment of Paraguay’s President Fernando Lugo by the country’s parliament.
Mercosur leaders voted to suspend Paraguay’s membership until presidential elections in the country in April 2013, but decided against imposing economic sanctions on one of Latin America’s poorest nations as Paraguay’s economy heavily depends on trade with other Mercosur members.
Mercosur, which comprises Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay as full members, and Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru as associate members, earlier condemned Lugo’s ouster and barred Paraguay’s interim president Federico Franco, whose party supported the impeachment, from attending the summit.
At the summit, the leaders of the bloc approved Venezuela as a new full member starting July 31.
Caracas had been trying to get the full membership for six years, but the move had been blocked by Paraguayan lawmakers despite Lugo’s support of Venezuela’s aspirations.
Venezuela’s President Hugo Chávez said in an interview with Telesur television network on Friday that the country’s full membership in Mercosur would have a powerful “political, geopolitical, and social” impact as it meant “a defeat for imperialism and Paraguayan bourgeoisie.”

Annan calls to end the bloodshed in Syria

By sagarmedia on June 30, 2012 | Leave a Comment | Edit

 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov believes that the international community has a good chance in Geneva of finding a path forward to stimulate the implementation of Kofi Annan’s Plan on the Syrian conflict.
“We have a very good chance tomorrow in Geneva to find a common denominator and find a path forward in order to stimulate the implementation of of Annan’s Plan from both sides of the Syrian [conflict],” Lavrov said during a briefing after a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in St. Petersburg.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said the Syrian government is ready to withdraw its armed forces from the country’s cities in parallel with the forces of the Syrian opposition.
Russia has said the Geneva conference should include all the permanent members of the UN Security Council, Syria’s neighbors (Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon), as well as key players in the region (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran) and international organizations (League of Arab States, European Union).
According to UN estimates, some 10,000 people have been killed in Syria since the beginning of a popular uprising against President Bashar al-Assad in March 2011. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Lodon-based organization with a network of activists in Syria, has put the death toll at 12,000.
UN-Arab League joint envoy Kofi Annan on Friday appealed to participants in a Saturday meeting on Syria to “act in unison” to end the bloodshed in the Middle East country, pointing to deep involvement by external powers which is contributing to a worsening situation there.
“Many external powers are deeply involved,” the former UN chief wrote in an article for The Washington Post, noting “Despite formal unity behind the six-point plan, mutual mistrust has made them work at cross-purposes.”
The six-point peace plan devised by Annan has won widespread support but has failed to halt the raging violence and bloodshed in Syria. The envoy blamed the plan’s non-implementation for its failure, and lamented the situation in the Arab nation as one that “could hardly be more grave.”
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said on Tuesday that his country is “in a state of a real war,” calling for all polices and directives directed to win the war.
Without naming any countries, Annan said the external powers, ” intentionally or otherwise,” “have encouraged the government and parts of the opposition to believe that force is the only option.”
“This serves no one’s interest — least of all that of the Syrian people,” he asserted.
Annan announced on Wednesday that an Action Group for Syria, involving world powers and regional players, will meet on Saturday in Geneva to identify “steps and measures” to secure full implementation of the peace plan and UN Security Council resolutions 2042 and 2043, including “an immediate cessation of violence in all its forms.”

Mongolian Democratic Party to form coalition govt

By sagarmedia on June 30, 2012 | 

2012-06-30 08:22:33 – ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIA .Sagar Media Inc;
The main opposition Mongolian Democratic Party, or MDP, is expected to become the largest force in the country’s parliament. It took the most votes but failed to gain a majority in Thursday’s general election.The pro-free market party is expected to soon begin talks with other parties to form a coalition government.
The election commission said that with 97 percent of the votes counted on Friday afternoon, the MDP had won about 32 percent, followed by the ruling Mongolian People’s Party, or MPP, with 28 percent.
The breakaway party from the MPP, the Mongolian People’s Revolutionary Party, or MPRP, led by former president Nambaryn Enkhbayar, garnered about 20 percent of total vote. MDP has secured 20 seats . The MPP has 15, and the MPRP 4.
The final results will not be known for a while as 28 seats for the proportional representation constituencies have yet to be allocated.
Davaa Batbayar, a candidate from the MDP who was called Kyokushuzan when he was a sumo wrestler in Japan, lost his bid.Retired Yokozuna grand champion Asashoryu’s
elder brother Dolgorsuren Sumiyabazar, from the MPP, lost despite support from his younger brother.
From the Office of the President of Mongolia: The following is a statement released by Mongolian President Tsakhia Elbegdorj to international journalists and organizations observing Mongolia’s seventh parliamentary election upon the conclusion of voting:
“I am proud that the people of Mongolia have cast their ballots today in the seventh free and fair national parliamentary elections since our revolution. On the heels of these elections, we have moved further down the path of democracy and progress for this great nation.
As the democratic anchor of the East, Mongolia has an obligation to our people and to our global allies to continue on the course of expanding freedom and opportunity for all. The votes of our citizens in this week’s elections serve as a reminder that our people hold their leaders accountable for their actions, and that continuing to eliminate corruption, promoting transparency and building economic success for all Mongolians remain national priorities.
To best serve the interests of our people and to advance our global role as a stable democracy, members of all political parties must work together to ensure that Mongolia will meet the challenges of the 21st century. This objective is critical, as only cooperative governance will ensure a proper standard of living for our people, and opportunities for generations to come.
I urge the members of the new parliament to work together to ensure the sustainability of our nation’s precious resources as we pursue meaningful economic opportunities that these assets offer all Mongolians.
Today is a great day in Mongolia’s history. We should be justifiably proud of completing another free and fair election. However, we cannot forget the tremendous, important work that lies before us. I am committed to working closely with the new parliament, civil society groups, business and community leaders to move Mongolia forward. I truly believe that in doing so our people will reap the rewards for themselves and their children that their hopes, votes, and their voices have brought them.”

EU leaders &German parliament approves EU bailout fund

By sagarmedia 

Germany’s Parliament finally approves a permanent euro zone bailout scheme. A new budget rules drawn up by German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Both the bills were ratified by Germany’s lower house Bundestag and upper house Bundesrat with the required two third majority.With the ratification of the European Stability Mechanism and “fiscal pact” also called fiscal compact for budget discipline, Germany clarified its intentions to stand by the euro.The 500 billion euro fund ESM will be used to bailout the faltering economies of Italy and Spain.

European leaders have agreed to allow the use of rescue funds to recapitalize ailing banks directly.
European Council President Herman Van Rompuy told reporters about the agreement on Friday following overnight meetings at the EU summit in Brussels.The agreement states that by the end of this year bailout funds will be provided directly to banks rather than through their national governments.The decision comes as the governments of Italy and Spain are urging action to bring down their borrowing costs for financing public debt.Van Rompuy said the EU countries hope to finalize the plans when the region’s finance ministers meet on July 9th.The EU summit agreed to spend 120 billion euro, or about 149 billion dollars, to stimulate economic growth.

Bashar al-Assad rejects foreign mediation

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has rejected international intervention in his country, saying Syria's problems will be resolved by Syrians.Assad made the remark during a one-hour interview broadcast on Iran's state-run television on Thursday. The interview was reportedly recorded one week ago.

Syrian president condemned the United States and European countries for supporting anti-government forces behind the scenes. He added that Arab countries were also involved and that Syrians will not accept any solution proposed by other countries.

Assad said opposition extremists in Syria are colluding with international terrorists to attack civilians.

He said his government will continue using force to crack down on opposition forces. He said eliminating just one terrorist can save many lives.

Fighting between government troops and opposition forces has been escalating across Syria.

The opposition says 104 people, including 20 children, were killed in government attacks on Wednesday alone.

The United States, Russia and other key players in the crisis will meet in Geneva on Saturday.

Paes agrees to Olympic participation

Veteran Leander Paes has finally agreed to take part in the London Olympics, ending days of suspense over his participation after he threatened to pull out due to a selection row that engulfed Indian tennis ahead of the mega-event.

After days of maintaining a stoic silence on his Olympic participation, Paes confirmed his participation at the post-match press conference of the ongoing Wimbledon Championships in London, a statement which is likely to put a lid on the selection controversy.

"I am looking forward to representing my country with the teams that the All India Tennis Association have selected," Paes said after winning his first-round men's doubles match with regular Czech partner Radek Stepanek.

"I am here to play sport and not politics," he asserted.

The 39-year-old had threatened to withdraw from the Olympics despite being India's number one doubles player after being paired with a lower-ranked Vishnu Vardhan for the big event against his wishes.

Paes' partners of choice -- Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna -- refused to combine with him and insisted on being sent as a team themselves.

The All India Tennis Association ultimately bowed to their insistence in a compromise formula of sending two teams, leaving Paes furious.

Paes was given the mixed doubles slot with Sania Mirza, breaking her Grand Slam winning combination with Bhupathi.

In an extraordinary attack shortly after getting her Olympic wildcard, Sania hit out at AITA, Paes as well as Bhupathi, claiming that she was used as a "bait" to pacify the disgruntled veteran.

Paes, however, chose to stay mum on Sania's outburst.

"Unfortunately, I see the games being played within games, and as much as that is very disheartening, I am looking forward to playing my sixth Olympics for my country as I have played for 22 years for the people and the flag.

"Every Olympics has some nonsense coming in with it. I know how much hard work goes into what I do. (Either) people choose to respect it, which I'm very lucky that India does, (or) people choose to disrespect. That's their problem, not mine," Paes added.

The world number seven doubles player said he had no complaints about being paired with Vardhan, who is ranked 206 in the ATP list.

The seven-time Grand Slam winner in men's doubles is a singles bronze medal winner from the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.

Paes, set to make a record sixth Olympic appearance, said he would look to help Vardhan, who would be making his Games debut in London.

"I don't even know if he has grass-court shoes. So it's a bit of a tough one. But he's a really good kid, I'm happy to play with him.

"Whatever the obstacles are, which I see are going to be many -- he's never been to Wimbledon before -- whatever I can do as an experienced professional athlete to help my partners out, I do," he said.

The controversy broke out when AITA initially paired Paes and Bhupathi as the only men's doubles entry for the Olympics. Bhupathi refused to play with Paes, citing his commitment to Bopanna.

When approached by AITA, Bopanna also rejected the idea, leaving Paes cornered.

It was then that AITA came out with a compromise formula which was lambasted by Sania who said it reeked of male chauvinism and was humiliating to Indian womanhood.

Despite Paes' confirmation, Bhupathi might still trigger a controversy as he has expressed his desire to partner Sania in mixed doubles given their recent success -- most significant being the French Open title just a few weeks back.

Nadal suffers shock Wimbledon defeat

Rafael Nadal crashed to his worst Grand Slam defeat in seven years on Thursday when Czech journeyman Lukas Rosol, the world number 100, pulled off one of the greatest upsets in Wimbledon history.

Rosol, whose previous five visits to Wimbledon had ended in first round losses in qualifying, stunned the 2008 and 2010 champion, and 11-time Grand Slam title winner Nadal, 6-7 (9/11), 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in the second round.

It was a stunning upset as Nadal slumped to his earliest exit at a major since the same stage of the 2005 Wimbledon championship when he was beaten by Luxembourg's Gilles Muller.

It was also eerily similar to Nadal's stunning 2009 French Open fourth round loss to Robin Soderling when the Swede unleashed a barrage of destructive free-swinging tennis to destroy the Spanish star.

A dramatic evening of Centre Court action, which saw a 45-minute delay as the roof was closed to allow the fifth set and the match to be completed, will go down in history as one of the sport's biggest shocks.

Nadal had played in the last five Grand Slam finals and was fresh from a record-breaking seventh French Open triumph which had confirmed his status as one of the sport's greatest players.

But Rosol put on an awesome display of sustained, big-hitting that left Nadal stunned and bewildered.

Nadal, the champion in 2008 and 2010, and arriving at Wimbledon having captured a record seventh French Open title, had taken the first set on a tie-breaker before his campaign unravelled.

After Rosol had levelled the tie and taken a 2-1 lead on a break in the third, it was clear that the Czech was getting under the Spaniard's skin.

Nadal complained to the umpire over his 26-year-old opponent's constant skipping around on the baseline and his distracting habit of swishing his racquet from side to side as he was preparing to serve.

He was broken to trail 2-1 and the players were involved in a shoulder-charge at the changeover.

When Nadal went long to drop the third set, the historic upset was on the cards, especially with Rosol regularly hitting returns at 85 mph.

But Nadal dominated the fourth set, stretching to a 4-2 lead with a break and securing it 6-2 with a combination of stirring defence and thrilling counter-attacks.

All England Club officials insisted the match should be finished so the Centre Court roof was closed which meant a 45-minute delay before the conditions were right for a fifth set.

On the resumption, Rosol, playing a five-set match for just the third time in his career, broke in the first game and then held his nerve.

He sent down his 21st ace to go to match point and then claimed his historic win with a 22nd to take his place in the record books.

Rosol will face German 27th seed Philipp Kohlschreiber for a place in the last 16.

KERALA QUESTIONED STATEMENT OF ANAND SHARMA ON FDI IN RETAIL

KERALA QUESTIONED STATEMENT OF ANAND SHARMA ON FDI IN RETAIL

CAIT SENT MEMORANDUMS TO CHIEF MINISTERS
In the matter of allowing FDI in Retail, repeated statements have been issued by the
Government recently.One such statement of Union Commerce Minister Shri Anand
Sharma wherein he claimed the support of Kearala Government for allowing FDI has
been contradicted by Kerala Chief Minister Shri Oomen Chandy who has said that State
Government had not written to the Centre supporting the FDI as claimed by Mr. Sharma.
Such a misleading statement of Shri Sharma has questioned the creditability of the
Government.
Why the Union Government is in great haste to allow FDI in Retail by overlooking the
ground realties of Indian Retail Trade is a matter needs a probe-said the Confederation
of All India Traders (CAIT) which is spearheading a national movement against FDI in
Retail Trade. The Government must clarify the pressures which are forcing for making
such statements. The CAIT has strongly said that any move to allow FDI in Retail will
be protested tooth and nail nationwide by the traders and other Stake Holders of Retail
Trade.
The CAIT has written a communication to Chief Ministers of all States and has sent
them its publication " FDI in Retail - Assumptions V/s Facts" in order to apprise them
with the ground realties and detrimental affects of FDI in Retail Trade. The CAIT has
also sought an audience with the Chief Ministers.
The CAIT regretted that on such an important issue, the Central Government did not
think it propoer to talk to Traders who are one of the important constituent of Retail
Trade in a situtation where not only the traders but farmers,labourers,hawkers,consu
mers and other sections of the retail trade are bitterly opposing FDI in Retail Trade.
The CAIT has demanded that the unanimous report of the Parliamentary Standing
Committee submitted on 8th June,2009 to Parliament should be made subject matter
of the discussion on this matter.
For more information please contact CAIT, Secretary General, Mr. Praveen Khandelwal@9891015165,

Parasaran and Mrinal Miri Appointed as Members of Rajya Sabha

By sagarmedia on June 29, 2012 | 

The President of India has approved the nomination of Shri. K Parasaran and Prof. Mrinal Miri as Members of Rajya Sabha. The eminent personalities have been nominated under Article 80 of the Constitution of India.
Shri. K Parasaran has been appointed for a term of six years from the date of notification to be issued by the Government. Shri Parasaran was Advocate General of Tamil Nadu and subsequently the Solicitor General of India. He was also the Attorney General of India between 1983-1989. Shri Parasaran was awarded Padma Vibhushan in the year 2011.
Prof. Mrinal Miri has been appointed to the vacancy caused due to the premature demise of Dr. Ram Dayal Munda and his tenure will be upto March 21, 2016. Prof. Miri is a noted philosopher and educationist and has been the Director of the Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla and later Vice Chancellor of North Eastern Hill University. He has been awarded with Padma Bhushan for his contribution in the field of education

 

Ivan Gasparovic urges EU integration

By sagarmedia on June 28, 2012 | Leave a Comment | Edit

Slovakia’s leader spoke the need for further European economic integration in overcoming the region’s credit woes.President Ivan Gasparovic spoke to media in Tokyo on Wednesday ahead of the EU summit. The meeting in Brussels will focus heavily on the debt crisis. Gasparovic said Slovakian people wonder why they have to pay for the failures of Greece. But he added his people understand that supporting Greece is a guarantee for the future of Slovakia.
Slovakia improved its financial condition by taking strict austerity measures before introducing the euro three years ago. Many Slovakians strongly oppose giving financial support to Greece.
The president stressed integration is essential because the debt crisis can no longer be tackled independently by member states.

Mongolia’s go to polls for General election

By sagarmedia on June 28, 2012 |

 Mongolians go to polls to elect a new parliament on Thursday, with the main issue to make important choices about how to use the country’s vast mineral resources.The voting began at 7AM for the general election held every 4 years to choose members of the 76-seat legislature.

Mongolian People’s Party is  main ruling and Democratic Party is opposition parties campaigned with differing visions for developing coal and mineral reserves.The ruling Mongolian People’s Party is open to foreign investment, while the opposition Democratic Party is cautious about foreign control.
Among the candidates is a former professional sumo wrestler known in Japan by the name of Kyokushuzan. He is vying for re-election from the Democratic Party.
  Former Yokozuna grand champion Asasyoryu’s elder brother is a candidate for the Mongolian People’s Party. The former Yokozuna has expressed support for his brother.
 Mongolia introduced electronic voting machines for the first time this election.Polling stations close at 8PM, after which vote counting begins immediately

Dear All,

You are cordially invited to Vimarsha the monthly discussion series of Vivekananda International Foundation.

 

Smt Saroj Bala (Member- Board for Industrial & Financial Reconstruction, Ministry of Finance- Govt. of India & Director- Institute of Scientific Research on Vedas)   will  speak on

'Scientific Dating of the Ancient Events from 2000 to 7000 B.C.'

                                               

on Friday, June 29, 2012

at 6:30pm

Venue : Vivekananda International Foundation,
               Plot no. 3, San Martin Marg,
               Chanakyapuri,
               New Delhi-110021

The talk will be followed by an interaction.

Please join us for tea at 6.00 pm.

Manash Bhattacharjee
Asst. Secretary

9891086698

Prez poll: Pranab, Sangma to file nominations today Pranab Mukherjee and P A Sangma will file their nominations on Thursday setting off the Presidential race between UPA and the BJP-backed opposition candidate in which the ruling alliance is set for a runaway victory. Unfazed by Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee's revolt, UPA will utilise the occasion of filing of nomination of Mukherjee to project a united picture and its penetration into NDA. Mukherjee will file papers at 1100 hrs in the presence of the top brass of UPA including Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and alliance Chairperson and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi. Barring Trinamool Congress, leaders of all UPA constituents are expected to be present on the occasion including Sharad Pawar (NCP), T R Baalu (DMK), Farooq Abdullah (NC) and E Ahmed (IUML), in a move to project a united face of the ruling alliance. NDA allies JD(U) and Shiv Sena have decided to support Mukherjee. Mukherjee is expected to file four sets of nomination papers and NDA Convenor and JD(U) chief Sharad Yadav is the first signatory to one such set which also has the signature of Defence Minister A K Antony. 77-year-old Mukherjee is poised to become the next President amidst indications of an overwhelmingly favourable arithmetic and the election managers of UPA are working overtime to secure record votes for him. The timing of filing of nomination by 64-year-old has not yet been given out by his office. He is likely to be accompanied by senior BJP leaders, Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy and senior MPs from AIADMK, BJD and SAD, among others. Mukherjee submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who told him that his presence amidst us would be deeply missed as our government owes a deep debt of gratitude to you for your contribution. Meanwhile, the resignation of Pranab Mukherjee was accepted by President Pratibha Patil. As Pranab Mukherjee resigned to contest the Presidential poll, PM Manmohan Singh took charge of the Finance Ministry portfolio.

IILF 2012 & Expo Riva Schuh India opens on July 05
By sagarmedia on June 27, 2012


Second edition of Delhi India International Leather Fair {July5-7,2012} will be inaugurated by Hon’ble Federal Minister of Commerce & Industry and Textile, Shri Anand Sharma at Hall No 12 and 12 A Foyer, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi on July 05.2012.



IILF 2012, to be spread over 2400 Sq mtrs of display, this year, the fair will feature 100 companies including 40 from China, Italy and Singapore. Fair will have another concurrent fair-Expo Riva Schuh India organized by Riva del Garda Fierecongressi, Italy.



The Expo Riva Schuh fair in Italy is one of the two leading internatonal shoe fairs in the world. Expo Riva Schuh India is organizing its second edition after successful first edition held concurrently with IILF 2011, this concurrent exhibition of IILF 2012 will feature 200 exhibitions from various countries including Italy, France, Spain, UK., Austria, China, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Thailand apart from domestic exhibitors. India ,China and Italy will form the major part of display at Expo Riva Schuh India 2012.



Theme of the fair is “A New Colour World-Trends & Technology” a set-up collective effort by CLRI and ITPO in Hall No.11, to show case India’s expertise in designing and development of high quality leatherwear along with latest trends,vogue,innovations in footwear and leather goods.

General Motors India Launch Chevrolet Cruze
Includes new 2.0-litre diesel engine, new transmission and added features

New Delhi, June 27, 2012 – General Motors India today launched the all-new Chevrolet Cruze at a ceremony in New Delhi presided over by Lowell Paddock, President & Managing Director, General Motors India. The new Cruze comes with a new 2.0-litre diesel engine which is the most powerful in its segment, along with a new manual transmission and added features. However, t maintains the nameplate’s coupe-like design proportions, comfortable interior and class-leading amenities.

Three variants – the LT and LTZ with GM’s next-generation six-speed manual transmission and the LTZ with an automatic transmission – are being offered in seven exterior colors. The new Cruze goes on sale at Chevrolet dealers acrossIndiastarting today.

“The Cruze has received an overwhelming response from consumers acrossIndia, since its launch in 2009,” said Paddock. “We expect the newest member of the Cruze family to continue to exceed the expectations of car buyers and stand out against the competition in its segment.”

New Diesel Engine
The new Cruze is powered by GM’s all-new FAM Z 2.0-litre diesel engine. It features a high-performance common rail fuel injection system and advanced electronically controlled variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with intercooler.

The engine provides maximum low-speed boost for high torque and power density with higher elasticity across the rpm range. The 16-valve DOHC engine generates peak power of 166 ps at 3,800 rpm and peak torque of 380 Nm at 2,000 rpm, enabling the Cruze to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 9 seconds.

The engine also features direct injection with a solenoid injector capable of injecting very small quantities of fuel in extremely short intervals at pressures of up to 1,800 bar. The improved mechanical design of the cylinder head and valvetrain provides 180 bar of maximum in-cylinder pressure for increased power and torque.
A high-capacity EGR cooler along with a reduced compression ratio of 16.3:1 controls nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions without sacrificing high power density. A new cylinder head port design provides increased air flow and variable swirl control by incorporating Cobra-shape intake ports. This further improves performance and cuts emissions.

A two-piece oil pan with an acoustic metal lower section and a Balance Shaft Module (BSM) with twin counter-rotating balance shafts in the oil sump reduce noise, vibration and harshness. A chain drive camshaft with hydraulic chain tensioners ensures maintenance-free operation.

New Transmission and Features

The new engine in the Cruze is complemented by a new F-40 six-speed manual transmission that features a cable shift mechanism with hydraulic clutch operation. Its three-shaft design has gear ratios that are optimized to suit Indian driving preferences and conditions.

Among the new amenities are PEPS – Passive Entry Passive Start with Push button start/stop, which is now standard in all variants, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, a power express driver up/down window with pinch protect, clutch footrest and premium speakers. Front fog lamps, tilt & telescopic steering, chrome door handles and Up-level smart screen are available on the LT variant.

A Proven Model

Indiais one of 140 markets that offer the Cruze. The Cruze led the Chevrolet brand with global sales of more than 180,000 units in the first quarter of 2012, a nearly 20 percent increase over 2011, making it the best-selling Chevrolet nameplate around the world.

“The Cruze is all about value, refinement and power-packed performance combined with an array of unique features,” said Paddock. “When you add it all up, it offers everything any discerning Indian car buyer could want in a sedan at a price point that represents uncontestable value for money. As a result, we expect the new Cruze to be a hit.” We believe this vehicle is the right product forIndiaright now because of its unique features and fine tuning that meet the requirements of local consumers as well as local climate and driving conditions. The all-new Cruze will allow GM to continue building on the Chevrolet brand’s success nationwide, he added.

To enhance the Chevrolet buying experience, GM India continues to expand its dealer network. It now has 279 sales points and 272 authorized service outlets across the country.

About Chevrolet

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Jun


27

I wil be outspent: Barack Obama I will be outspentTuesday, 26 June, 2012 9:13 PMFrom: "Barack Obama" Add sender to ContactsTo: "Naresh Sagar" Naresh --









I will be the first president in modern history to be outspent in his re-election campaign, if things continue as they have so far.







I'm not just talking about the super PACs and anonymous outside groups -- I'm talking about the Romney campaign itself. Those outside groups just add even more to the underlying problem.







The Romney campaign raises more than we do, and the math isn't hard to understand: Through the primaries, we raised almost three-quarters of our money from donors giving less than $1,000, while Mitt Romney's campaign raised more than three-quarters of its money from individuals giving $1,000 or more.







And, again, that's not including the massive outside spending by super PACs and front groups funneling up to an additional billion dollars into ads trashing me, you, and everything we believe in.







We can be outspent and still win -- but we can't be outspent 10 to 1 and still win.







More than 2.2 million Americans have already chipped in for us, and I'm so grateful for it. As we face this week's fundraising deadline, please donate $3 or more today.







Every donation you make today automatically enters you to join Michelle and me for one of the last grassroots dinners of this campaign -- today is your last chance to get your name in.







These dinners represent how we do things differently. My opponent spent this past weekend at a secretive retreat for the biggest donors to both his campaign and the super PACs that support him.







I've got other responsibilities I'm attending to.







Donate today to stand for our kind of politics:







https://donate.barackobama.com/June-Deadline







Thank you,







Barack

Jun


26

Press Invite July,9,2012 Subject: Invite for a Public meeting From: mahalingam marimuthu Tue, 26 Jun '12 4:37p To: Sehrish Shaban and others Cc: Bcc:

Dear Friend,

There is rising concern across the country about the large scale arrests and harassment of Muslim youth by the security forces of the state. Young men are being picked up without explanation, taken into police custody, beaten and tortured and eventually thrown into jail awaiting trial for years on end. Several have died in custody, the latest case being of Qateel Siddiqui who died in mysterious circumstances in the Yerwada Jail, Pune. He was arrested last November and killed in a high security prison for a case in which his complicity had still not been established.



There has been silence about the disappearance of Fasih Mahmood, the engineer picked up in Saudi Arabia. Except for denying any knowledge of his whereabouts, there has been no response from the UPA government about efforts to trace an Indian citizen whose family is now running from pillar to post in search of Justice.



Urdu journalist Syed Kazmi remains in jail on charges of terrorism, with the police still to file a chargesheet against him.



These are just a few cases of hundreds, with official reports now admitting that a majority of prisoners in Indian Jails are Muslims. Citizens concerned about the increasing intolerance and authoritarianism of the Indian state where the minorities no longer feel safe in their own homes have decided to come together to organise a Public Meeting to raise a voice against injustice and what amounts to state terror. A resolution calling upon the state for remedial action at different levels will also be adopted at the Meeting that will be addressed by political leaders and senior representatives of civil society.



We call upon you to join and support the initiative that is part of a series of protests held by civil society on this issue in Delhi and other states over the last few weeks,by sending us a line with the name of your organisation.

The PUBLIC MEETING on POLITICS OF TERROR: TARGETING THE MUSLIM YOUTH is being held on



JULY 9,2012 at 3p.m.

at THE DEPUTY SPEAKERS HALL,

CONSTITUTION CLUB

RAFI MARG

NEW DELHI.



Looking forward to your participation,



With Thanks and Regards,

Mohammed Adeeb, MP, Rajya Sabha.

Seema Mustafa, Senior Journalist.

Prof.Anuradha Chenoy,JNU

Dr.Mahalingam M



Research Fellow Centre for Policy Analysis

N 24 A, First Floor,

Green Park Extension,

New Delhi - 110016

Naresh --



I've written you quite a few emails. Today, I want to hear from you.



Because at 19 weeks out, every decision we make today is more important for this election than the decisions we made yesterday. From staffing plans to on-the-ground organizing strategies, these decisions will only get more important from here.



You're someone who's let us know at some point that you stand behind this president, and you have a stake in how we grow the most effective grassroots army possible between now and November. So we want to hear it straight from you: What's working? How can we inspire more people to join us? And how's this election shaping up from your perspective?



Please take a minute to answer a couple questions here.



What you tell us is going to help shape our strategy to inspire other supporters to help grow this campaign. You'll help determine the very best way we can communicate the President's accomplishments to the rest of the country.



I'm asking you because supporters like you have driven this campaign from the very beginning. The President has counted on you to get us here, and how we move forward from now until November 6th is up to you.



So here's your opportunity to weigh in and let us know what you think:



http://my.barackobama.com/A-Quick-Survey



Looking forward to hearing from you,



Thanks,



Messina



Jim Messina

Campaign Manager

Obama for America

THE ŠKODA PRIZE announces ‘Call for Entry’ for its 3rd edition ü Applications to the prestigious ŠKODA Prize for Indian Contemporary art will be open from June 30, 2012.

New Delhi – June 22, 2012: Launched in 2009, by ŠKODA Auto India and Seventy EMG, The ŠKODA Prize is recognized as one of the most of influential platforms for Indian contemporary art. Call for entry begins on June 30th, applications are available on www.theskodaprize.com and will be accepted until 31st August 2012.

The prize brings together a diverse pool of nominees from across India and includes internationally recognized artists as well as newer talents. Nominees need to be below the age of 45, and should have had a solo show in the country over the last 12 months; they will have demonstrated sustained vision, innovation, and a mature understanding of material and form through their careers.
The winner takes away the prestigious ‘The ŠKODA Prize Winner’ title and also receives a prize money of INR 10,00,000. Runners-up are invited to participate in international residencies supported by Prohelvetia, the Swiss Arts Council. Visited by thousands every year, The ŠKODA Prize Top 20 exhibition (which takes place alongside the India Art Fair in New Delhi) showcases country's most promising contemporary artists.

Juried by a panel of notable personalities and supported by museums and cultural institutions of international repute, The ŠKODA Prize presents a unique vantage point to engage with some of the most exciting developments in Indian contemporary art today. The jury members of The ŠKODA Prize in the past have included collector Mrs. Kiran Nadar, Mrs. Tasneem Mehta, (Managing Trustee and Honorary Director, Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum), artist Vivan Sundaram, Pooja Sood, (Director of Khoj), Heike Munder (Director of the Migros Museum für gegenwartskunst, Zürich) who was also on the jury for this year's Turner Prize, while renowned artists Marc Quinn, and Turner Prize winner Anish Kapoor have presented awards to past winners Mithu Sen (2010) and Navin Thomas (2011).

In 2011, The SKODA Prize platform was extended to create a prize for artists at the beginning of their careers with The Breakthrough Artist Award – which recognizes younger artists under the age of 35 - based on their debut solo exhibitions in India. The Breakthrough Artist Award is supported by highly regarded publication Art India (over a decade old magazine). Through its association with ART India, The SKODA Prize also supports the development on critical dialogue, and writing about Indian contemporary art. Mr. Girish Shahane, Art Critic, Curator and Director, Art for The SKODA Prize for Indian Contemporary Art, said “We aim to build on the reputation the award has established as a benchmark of artistic quality, while also attracting more new voices through the Breakthrough Artist Award”.

The last date for applying for the Breakthrough Artist Award is 30 October 2012, please send in your entries to
Art India Publishing Co Pvt Ltd, c/o JSW Steel Ltd, Victoria Mills Compound, P.B.Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai-400013.
Tel: 022-24917961

About The ŠKODA Prize



The ŠKODA Prize is most prestigious award on the Indian visual arts scene. It recognises cutting-edge work demonstrating vision, innovation, and a mature understanding of material and form. The Prize brings to public notice exciting trends in contemporary art, highlighting the output of established mid-career artists as well as new voices. It is backed by jurors of impeccable credentials, renowned patron institutions, a dedicated group of advisors, and a management team of proven capability. The ŠKODA Prize is a Seventy EMG Arts Initiative.
Press contact:
To receive more information about The ŠKODA Prize, please contact:

Flint Asia

Bhavna Katyal
bhavna.katyal@flint-pr.com
+91 9810781095 or



Nidhi Awasty
nidhi.awasty@flint-pr.com
+91 9899598586

Egyptians gather in Cairo's Tahrir Square,

Egyptians gather in Cairo's Tahrir Square,

Tens of thousands of Egyptians are gathered in Cairo's Tahrir Square, dissatisfied with the interim military government's handling of the presidential election.The outcome of the election was due on Thursday, but the electoral commission has delayed reporting the winner. The two candidates, Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood and the former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq, have both declared victory.

The protesters, including Muslim Brotherhood supporters, are accusing the military government of manipulating the election results.On Friday, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces issued a statement supporting a peaceful demonstration. But it added that it would use force to prevent damage.

PM hits out at developed nations over carbon emissions

PM Manmohan Singh on Friday hit out at industrialised countries over the issue of making available additional finance and technology to help developing world reduce carbon emissions, saying there is “little evidence” of support for them. >Dr Singh also made a strong plea for finding new pathways for sustainable living since the current consumption patterns in the industrialized world are unsustainable.The prime minister enunciated India’s stand in his address during the plenary session of the Rio+20 summit, which is officially known as the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development.“Many countries could do more if additional finance and technology were available. Unfortunately, there is little evidence of support from the industrialised countries in these areas(reducing emissions intensity). The ongoing economic crisis has made matters worse,” he said.Describing economic development, social inclusion and environmental sustainability as all equally critical as components of sustainable development, Prime Minister Singh said that the task before the world community is to give practical shape and content to this architecture in a manner that allows each country to develop according to its own national priorities and circumstances.>Observing that the Rio+20 Summit was meeting at a time of serious economic crisis and political ferment in the world, the prime minister said it is timely because it focuses the world community’s minds on “the future we want” and how to realise it. “Difficult though it may seem, we have to summon the imagination to balance the costs that we will incur in the present with the benefits that will accrue to future generations,” said Prime Minister Singh, who was among the 125 world leaders who participated in the deliberations.The Prime Minister made it clear to the summit that for developing countries, inclusive growth and a rapid increase in per capita income levels are development imperatives. “Those living at the subsistence level cannot bear the costs of adjustment and their livelihood considerations are important in determining how scarce natural resources such as land, water and forests are used. The severe deterioration of land and water resources is already affecting the well- being of millions of people living on the edges of subsistence, particularly women and children,” he said.>Noting that Sustainable development also mandated the efficient use of available natural resources, Singh said the world community has to be much more frugal in the way it uses natural resources.A key area of focus is energy. We have to promote universal access to energy, while at the same time, promoting energy efficiency and a shift to cleaner energy sources by addressing various technological, financial and institutional constraints. In India, we are implementing an ambitious National Solar Mission as a critical option for our energy security,” he said.Observing that environmental sustainability is the third leg of the sustainable development architecture, the prime minister said that economic activity invariably results in negative spinoffs, either by way of local pollution, or by way of global effects such as Greenhouse Gas emissions.“We need to tackle both,” said the prime minister.Dr Singh also spoke about issues relating to local pollution and how it can be regulated and how such regulation may impose costs on various economic actors.“To ensure equity, there may be a case for targeted assistance to small producers to meet part of these costs and this should be built into policy,” he said.At the global level, Dr Singh said that the approach to the problem should be guided by equitable burden sharing.“It is for this reason that the first Rio Summit enshrined the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. I am happy we have reaffirmed this principle as well as the principle of equity during this Summit,” he said.This does not, however, mean that countries should not take proactive actions to promote sustainable development, Dr Singh said.“In India, our efforts over the last two decades have yielded positive results. Over the period 1994-2007, our emissions-GDP intensity, excluding agriculture, has declined nearly 25 per cent. Looking ahead, we have set a target to further reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 20-25 per cent between 2005 and 2020, the prime minster said.Stating that one of the key challenges that demanded urgent global action is the worrying depletion of bio-diversity across our planet, Dr Singh said the Eleventh Conference of Parties on Convention on Biodiversity is being hosted by India in October this year at Hyderabad.“We look forward to working with the global community to make it a success,” he said.“The future we want should be a future in which there is ecological and economic space for sustainable growth for all. Let us work together to attain the future that we all desire..,” Dr Singh added.

Queens Park Rangers Heads to Asia for Pre-Season Tour

Queens Park Rangers Heads to Asia for Pre-Season Tour

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SEPANG, 22 JUNE 2012 – Rangers fans will be thrilled to hear that Queens Park Rangers (QPR) will be making their way to the region with their official Pre-Season Asia Tour. During the tour, the team will be in three cities – Kota Kinabalu, Sabah; Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Surabaya, Indonesia.

 

The Barclay’s Premier League (BPL) team will face the Sabah Allstars team in Kota Kinabalu on July 17 followed by a match against the Kelantan team in Kuala Lumpur on July 20. In Surabaya, the match will see The Hoops go against Persebaya Surabaya team on 23 July.

 

AirAsia Group Commercial Head Kathleen Tan said, “We have fostered a fantastic partnership with QPR and is proud to renew our sponsorship as QPR official shirt sponsor. We are excited and thrilled to have QPR tour our major hub cities in Malaysia and Indonesia. AirAsia has been actively involved in sports sponsorship & sports marketing, however our keen interest in sports is not just about the value and branding opportunities that it gives us, but also our belief that we need to invest in the region’s youth to develop their interest and skills in international sports.”

 

“As the people’s airline, AirAsia does not only enable everyone to fly, but also to experience international sports at the local front. And with our extensive route network across Asean especially, we hope to share the joy and excitement of football to our guests from every corner of this region.”

 

QPR chief executive officer Philip Beard added, “It is an honour for Queens Park Rangers to come and play in Malaysia & Indonesia next month. Everyone at the Club is extremely excited by the Tour, and we hope it allows as many of our fans as possible in Asia to watch the team in action.”

 

“From the day Tony took over, the response and support from AirAsia has been overwhelming. This is a massive step for QPR to come and play in Asia and we hope it is the first of many more opportunities to come. I know the players and management are excited about to come in advance to a successful second season in the Premier League.”

 

To see QPR in action, fans in Malaysia can get their tickets from AirAsia RedTix. Tickets are priced between RM30 to RM200 for the matches in Malaysia. Stay tuned on when the tickets are available for sale by logging on to www.redtix.airasia.com. Details on the tickets for the Surabaya match will be announced soon.

 

AirAsia is the Official Club Partner for QPR and it was recently announced that it is also the Official Playing Kit Sponsor, with the airline’s logo to appear on all QPR’s playing kit (home, away and third shirt) for the whole duration of the 2012/13 BPL season.

 

In addition, there will also be special AirAsia QPR co-branded merchandize including t-shirts, footballs, wristbands, caps and lanyards on sale at the stadium during the friendly matches at the AirAsia booth. Those in Malaysia who has purchased their tickets online via AirAsia RedTix can also order the t-shirts online and collect it at the booth during match day.

 

AirAsia members can also win a pair of free tickets to the matches through a special online contest through the airline’s newsletter and on its website at www.airasia.com. All they have to do is submit their booking numbers for flights purchased in 2012, answer three questions on QPR and AirAsia and complete a slogan. BIG loyalty card members will stand a chance to win two pairs of tickets for the contest. The contest will begin on June 25 and ends on July 1, 2012.

 

Apart from that, 5 lucky people can also get a chance to follow the QPR team on the QPR Asia Tour to all three cities during the whole tour. All they have to do is tell AirAsia of their analytics in a blog entry of QPR’s brave battle against relegation last season in the English Premier League. Participants can submit their entries via email to facebook@airasia.com. Contest starts June 20 and ends on June 29, 2012.

 

In conjunction with the QPR Asia Tour, AirAsia will be having a special promotion. Guests can look forward to flying from Kuala Lumpur with all in fares from as low as RM29* one-way to destinations including Kuala Terengganu, Penang and Johor Bahru, RM59* to Langkawi, Palembang and Medan. Booking period for the promo is from June 26 to July 8 for the travel period of September 18 to November 30, 2012. The great, low fare offers are available online at www.airasia.com and all of AirAsia’s mobile booking platforms.

 

*All fares quoted are all-in fares, inclusive of airport tax and fuel surcharge. For one way only.

⁺Prices may not be inclusive of tax & may change at the time of print. Terms & conditions apply.

 

Photo caption:

AirAsia Group Head of Commercial, Kathleen Tan (third from left) and Queens Park Rangers Chief Executive Officer, Philip Beard (fourth from left) flanked by AirAsia flight attendants at the announcement of QPR’s Asia Tour. The tour will see QPR taking on the Sabah Allstars, Kelantan FC  and Persebaya Surabaya team in Kota Kinabalu (Sabah); Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Surabaya, Indonesia.

 

***ENDS***

About AirAsia & AirAsia X

AirAsia, the leading and largest low-cost carrier in Asia, services the most extensive network with 150 routes. Within 10 years of operations, AirAsia has carried over 140 million guests and grown its fleet from just two aircraft to approximately 106. The airline today is proud to be a truly ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) airline with established operations based in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines servicing a network stretching across all ASEAN countries, China, India, Sri Lanka and Australia. This is further complemented by AirAsia X, its low-cost long-haul affiliate carrier that currently flies to destinations in China, Australia, Taiwan¸ Iran, Korea and Japan. AirAsia was named the World’s Best Low Cost Airline in the annual World Airline Survey by Skytrax for three consecutive years (2009, 2010, 2011).

 

Queens Park Rangers Football Club

QPR FC (www.qpr.co.uk) is a professional Football Club based in West London, England. The Club play their football in the top-flight of English football, the Barclays Premier League, under the management of former legendary striker Mark Hughes. On August 18th 2011, Tony Fernandes arrived at the Club as a majority shareholder, alongside Kamarudin Bin Meranun and Ruben Emir Gnanalingam. Amit Bhatia, who represents the Mittal Family, returned to the Club as Vice-Chairman.

12.2 Million Tourists to Bangkok is ranked third Globally

By sagarmedia

Bangkok Ranks Third Globally in context  of the Number of International Tourists Expected. Expected to receive 12.2 million international visitors in 2012

 MUMBAI, JUNE 21, 2012: Bangkok, the capital city of ‘Amazing Thailand’ has been ranked third globally in terms of the number of international tourists expected to visit the city in 2012.

MasterCard Worldwide annual Global Destination Cities Index has stated that the number of people travelling abroad continues to increase around the world despite a challenging economic environment.

Bangkok was the top ranked city in Asia and outranked cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and Dubai. The index said Bangkok will attract 12.2 million visitors. Globally, the list was topped by London (16.9 million visitors), followed by Paris.

The index also placed Bangkok third in a list ranked by visitor spend. It said a total of $19.3bn will be spent by tourists in Bangkok, up 19.3 percent compared to the previous year.

Commenting on this remarkable achievement, Mr. Sethaphan Buddhani, Director for Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mumbai said “The entire team at the Tourism Authority of Thailand across the globe is proud that tourists across the world chose Bangkok as their preferred destination in Asia. Bangkok and all our major cities that attract tourists globally and especially India are indeed perceived as a value for money destination and therefore attracts travelers in search of a culturally enriched but at the same time, vibrant city. We are pleased that Bangkok has outranked cities such as New York, Madrid, Rome and Barcelona and hope that our constant efforts make Bangkok the number one most visited city worldwide”

Mr. Buddhani further elaborated,” India is a key source market of travelers for Thailand. For the calendar year 2011, over 900,000 Indian holiday and business travelers traveled to the Kingdom making Amazing Thailand the number 1 destination for outbound travelers from India.”

Bangkok is the capital and also the largest city of Thailand. It is also known as Krung Thep in the Thai language. Bangkok is one of the top cities of Southeast Asia economically. It is one of the foremost tourist destinations of the world and tourists normally travel to Bangkok for its vibrant nightlife, world renowned cuisine ranging from street food to fine dining restaurants, beautiful temples and luxury hotels. Over the last few decades, Bangkok has changed into a modern, exciting, and sophisticated city. Bangkok offers visitors not only the modern amenities they would expect from other cosmopolitan cities, but also a unique treasure trove of cultural attractions.

“Why no background declaration by people contesting for the President’s office?”, National Election Watch ask Election Commission of India

Mr Gopalaswami N(former CEC) and T S Krishnamurty(former CEC) also agree that the filing of affidavit should be made mandatory on the lines of Supreme Court’s judgment.

New Delhi: June 18, 2012: Since 2003 judgement of Supreme court directing the Election Commission to get background information on criminal records, assets, liabilities, education etc. on an affidavit, all candidates contesting parliament or legislative assembly elections have to give this declaration to the election commission on an affidavit. Following in the steps of Election commission of India, most State Election Commissions (SECs) have also implemented it in the elections to local bodies(Panchayats and Municipal elections).

However, there is no such declaration in force for Presidential elections. National Election Watch (NEW) has written to Election Commission of India requesting it to enforce the same for candidates contesting for the offices of President and Vice-President starting with the cngoing elections. The Election Commission is yet to take a decision on the issue.

In its letter to the Election Commission, NEW has made the following arguments:

1.       As per the Supreme Court Judgment 2003, it states that "The  Election Commission is directed to call for information on affidavit  by  issuing necessary order in exercise of its power under Article  324 of the  Constitution of India from each candidate seeking election  to Parliament or  a State Legislature as a necessary part of his  nomination paper”.

 As per Article 79 of the Constitution of India, the Parliament consists of the President and two Houses known as  the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People  (Lok Sabha). Thus the proper implementation of the afore mentioned judgment of the  Supreme Court requires the implementation of the affidavits for all candidates contesting presidential and vice-presidential elections also.

2.        The Supreme Court has also mentioned that this judgment has  reached finality. And using the various arguments in  the order, several other public bodies have implemented this order in their  elections, e.g. in Panchayat and Municipal Body  elections.

The office of the President is one of the most important positions in  our  country and theright now the only elections to a public office where the candidates are not  required to  submit self sworn affidavits on their background details  at the time of  filing their nominations.

3.       The President is the head of the Union Executive. The implementation of the Supreme Court Judgment will bring about more  transparency and will set a good example for others to follow.  The Election Commission should take lead on this and issue the appropriate orders for its implementation.

Commenting on the same issue Mr. M.N Gopalaswamy (Former Chief Election Commissioner) said: “In my view EC should extend this requirement to the elections to the office of the President and Vice President of India as they are elected offices and it is in the fitness of things that all elected offices in the country, from the lowest level namely to  the Panchayats to the highest namely to the President (and Vice President) of India ,are brought within the same discipline.”

Mr T S Krishnamurthy (Former Election Commissioner) also agreed. He said, “I agree with ECI that the SC judgement is not quite clear but in continuation of the SC order the Right to Information  should extend to Presidential electors as well for the electors to know all about the candidates before exercising their votes This is more so as The party whip does not apply to this election.Morever, the Election Commission can extend the logic of the  SC order under its inherent powers to require thse candidates should file the affidavits in the interest of free & fair elections.”

Amongst others, the letter sent to the ECI has been signed/endorsed by the following people:

Prof Trilochan Sastry, Professor IIM, Bangalore (National  Election Watch/ Karnataka Election Watch)

Prof Jagdeep Chhokar, Former Director In-charge of IIM, Ahmedabad (National  Election Watch / Gujarat Election Watch)

Mr Ajit Ranade, National  Election Watch /Maharashtra Election Watch

Mr Anil Bairwal, National Coordinator (Association for Democratic Reforms/National Election Watch)

Shri I.C. Dwivedi, Former DGP, Uttar Pradesh (Uttar Pradesh Election Watch)

Mr Nikhil Dey, Founder Member MKSS (Rajasthan Election Watch)

Dr Sudarsan Pabmanaban, Professor IIT Chennai, (Tamil Nadu Election Watch)

Mr Ranjan Mohanty,Director PECUC, ( Coordinator Odisha Election Watch)

Mr. Jaskirat Singh, Coordinator Punjab Election Watch

Mr Uttkarsh Sinha, Senior Journalist,(Uttar Pradesh Election Watch)

Dr Lenin, Uttar Pradesh Election Watch

Mr Sanjay Singh, Uttar Pradesh Election Watch

Mr Sanjay Rai, Uttar Pradesh Election Watch

Mr Rajiv Kumar, Bihar Election Watch

Mr. Bhasker Assoldekar, Goa State Cordinator,(Goa Election Watch)

Dr B.P. maithani ,Uttarakhand Election Watch

Mr Rakesh Dubbudu, Andhra Pradesh Election Watch

Mr Gautam Bandyopadhyay, Chhatisgarh Election Watch

Mr Biplab Halim, West Bengal Election Watch

Mr P Joseph Victor Raj, Puducherry Election Watch

Tasaduk Ariful Hussain, Executive Director NEST (Manipur Election Watch)

Biswendu Bhattacharjee, Coordinator Tripura Election Watch

Mr. Vanlalruata, PRISM (Mizoram Election Watch)

Mr. J.R Ramoul, Himachal Pradesh Election Watch