AP Samachar - 29 March 2011

Put Siachen on table last, not first

March 29, 2011
By Vikram Sood

As the United States gets into an Arab quagmire without extricating itself from the AfPak theatre there must also be pressure to find a foreign policy success in Washington D.C., with election year approaching. Consequently, the discourse on AfPak has begun to change. The good and necessary war has become unnecessary and futile as it drains the US treasury and America suffers 500 casualties annually. 

Western experts and media now describe how unstable the situation in Pakistan has become and how radicalised that country is today. There is also grudging admission that Pakistan’s rulers have been following a dual if not a multilayered policy on hunting with the US in the effort in Afghanistan and supping with the terrorists of various hues simultaneously both on the western and eastern frontiers. Simultaneously, the subscript is getting more pronounced. 

This subscript says that Pakistan is unable to fully cooperate because of its apprehension about Indian designs on Afghanistan and Pakistan. Almost all of the recent writings from the US or the UK end up with the same final recommendation. India and Pakistan must sort themselves out on issues like Kashmir to enable Pakistan to stabilise. The kind of gentle persuasion that was alluded to in the Wikileaks cables must surely be continuing. India-Pakistan talks have recommenced: another dramatic but eventually pointless gesture to inconsequential entities has been made.

Recent writings from Pakistan suggest that among the issues that are considered easily solvable is the Saltoro Ridge (commonly referred to as the Siachen Glacier) and the UN is being inveigled into this. This is not so and anyone who sees the map of the region will understand this. Undoubtedly peace with Pakistan is desirable. However, to try and attain it through magnanimity will only trump realism. 

The reality is that the India-Pakistan level of distrust. Pakistan has not called an unequivocal and permanent end to using its jihadist weapon in India and it never will; its prevarication on issues related to investigation in the Mumbai 2008 terrorist attack is the sum and substance of this attitude. 

The Indian Army climbed to the Saltoro Ridge in 1984 to cut off Pakistan’s plans to access beyond Saltoro to the Karakoram pass. This would have enabled Pakistan access to Tibet and also threaten Ladakh. Pakistan and China would have access to each other through the Khunjerab pass on the Karakoram highway via Xinjiang and to Tibet through the Karakoram pass. The Saltoro Ridge provided Indian forces with strategic heights looking into Pak-occupied Gilgit and Baltistan. Such an advantage must not be given up for some obscure short-term political gain without a document to establish one’s credentials. 

Pakistan’s unwillingness to sign any document that authenticates the Agreed Ground Position Line (AGPL) could only mean that it would seek to break it at first dawn. There is neither a change of heart nor intentions. Kargil 1999 was the latest, and probably not the last, military attempt to alter the ground position in Kashmir in an effort to negate the advantage India had in Saltoro. 

In recent years the geopolitical situation has changed. There is greater Chinese presence in Gilgit and Baltistan where apart from building other facilities the Chinese have been upgrading the Karakoram highway since 2005. It is estimated that last August about 11,000 Chinese were involved in infrastructure projects. This would ultimately link with the Chinese-aided port project at Gwadar shortening China’s route to the Persian Gulf from four weeks to 48 hours Simultaneously, the Chinese have been upgrading their own infrastructure in Xinjiang and Tibet north of the Himalayas. 

India has repeatedly given up strategic advantages and conceded on the negotiating table what was won on the battlefield. In 1948, when the Pakistani forces were retreating, we did not secure Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Kotli or Skardu. In 1966, we gave up Haji Pir, through which infiltrators keep coming into the Kashmir Valley even today. In 1972, we gave up territory and 93,000 prisoners of war for an agreement that Pakistan never intended to observe.

The only way it would not be perceived as a retreat would be if the Pakistanis first agreed to delineate the AGPL in the Siachen sector, which is a part of the large Saltoro Ridge, authenticate this on maps that would then be signed and exchanged by commanders of the two countries. Pakistan would then project the AGPL in all its maps, making the AGPL an extension of the line of control from Point NJ-9842 that does not go towards the Karakoram pass but due north along the Saltoro Ridge. After this, the two countries would work out the ground rules for demilitarisation. Only after this has been worked out should there be discussion on redeployment and demilitarisation of this sector. Anything short of this will be a sellout. 

The issue is far too important to be decided furtively or in a hurry. It is only fair that if we are to retreat, the people should know that this pullback is in the national interest. Siachen has to be last issue on the table and not the first one.

* Vikram Sood is a former head of the Research and Analysis Wing, India’s external intelligence agency

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AP Samachar - 25 March 2011

A death blow to Japan’s fishing industry
 John M Glionna and Kenji Hall

The Los Angeles Times

First Published : 24 Mar 2011 11:19:00 PM IST

Last Updated : 25 Mar 2011 03:32:13 AM IST

Standing on the deck of his 91-foot trawler, veteran fisherman Tomoyuki Kondou winces over reports that radioactivity from Japan’s damaged nuclear power plant in nearby Fukushima has contaminated the local food supply after this month’s deadly earthquake and tsunami.  The bespectacled third-generation angler has heard the warnings that milk, spinach and other vegetables grown around the plant have been found to contain traces of the radioactive isotopes iodine-131 and cesium-137.Now Kondou and others in Kesennuma worry that radiation from the seaside nuclear plant might also affect the region’s long-bustling fishing industry, which provides tuna, oysters, shark, squid and seaweed to restaurants and supermarkets throughout Japan and around the world.Japanese officials this week said they have detected higher than normal radiation levels in samples of seawater around the power complex. Kondou is concerned that dangerous isotopes might soon sicken the huge schools of tuna he reels onto his trawler, the 31 Kohei Maru.“I worry the radiation might move up the food chain,” says Kondou, 40, who was more than 300 miles from shore searching for fish when the quake struck March 11 . “At first, the smaller fish will become infected and then will get eaten by the bigger fish.”While the alarm is understandable, the science of radiation contamination suggests the health risks are less scary. Andrew Maidment, associate professor of radiology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, says radiation will be very heavily diluted in the large expanse of seawater off Japan’s northeastern coast, though inland fisheries such as shallow water fish farms might face a slightly higher risk of contamination. “These radioactive materials are highly soluble and are going to dissolve,” says Maidment, who is a consultant to the International Atomic Energy Agency. But that may not damp ongoing fears both here and abroad, which can affect sales with the same force as reality. At the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo, which ships Kesennuma’s catch to ports across the globe, wholesalers say that overseas orders have been slashed and prices on some fresh fish have fallen by half due to radioactivity concerns.In recent days, the market’s sushi bars, which usually are packed with tourists who wait more than two hours for service, have been half-empty.At one stall, exporter Yasuhiro Yamazaki has a cellphone pressed to his ear as he fields calls from customers in the United States, Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Indonesia. They all want to know the same thing: Are Japan’s fish contaminated?Says Yamazaki: “We are up against an invisible enemy.”The growing concerns could cause his company, Tsukiji’s largest exporter, to lose $10 million, roughly 20 per cent of his annual revenue.It is unclear how much of the radioactive isotope seepage has flowed into the sea at Fukushima through sources ranging from windblown smoke settling atop the water to the possibly tens of thousands of gallons of water that have been pumped into the stricken nuclear reactors or dumped from above by helicopter. Water pumped into the reactors to cool the fuel rods is usually protected from contamination by a zirconium casing, but casings have melted in overheated reactors, exposing any water moving past to high levels of radiation. As workers seek to repair the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, the impact of radioactivity on comestibles produced here is intensifying. Officials have now urged consumers not to eat a dozen types of vegetables from Fukushima prefecture after traces of iodine-131 and cesium-137 were found in the region. The US Food and Drug Administration has banned imports of milk, fresh fruit and vegetables from four areas near the nuclear plant.On Wednesday, government officials in Tokyo and five nearby cities announced that infants should no longer consume tap water because elevated levels of radioactive iodine were found at a water treatment plant.This week’s report on seawater has heightened fishermen’s concerns about their wares, the nation’s signature export, even though the government has said the seafood is safe to eat.The northeast, where the quake and tsunami hit, plays a vital role in Japan’s $16.5-billion annual fishing industry and harbour towns such as Kesennuma already are reeling from nature’s devastation. “I wonder whether this town can survive,” says Kondou, who has gone to sea since he was 15 and now fills the shiny hip boots of his father and grandfather before him. “I hope it can, but I’m not sure.”Kesennuma, 250 miles north of Tokyo, lies close to the epicentre of the offshore quake that shook this island nation to its core and triggered 40-foot waves that pounded its port like a storm-battered ship at sea.Scores of the town’s signature fishing boats were tossed about like children’s toys, coming to rest blocks from the harbour, on top of cars or protruding from buildings, as the waves rushed in and then sucked thousands of victims, as well as homes and vehicles, out to sea. Other vessels were scorched by a massive fire in the harbour. Now Kesennuma lies largely in ruins and the nation’s fisheries agency predicts that a significant portion of the country’s annual seafood catch could be affected by the earthquake and tsunami, including radiation. 

Los Angeles Times
 

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AP Samachar - 24 March 2011

Cold blooded Muslim killer of 18 women arrested

March 18, 2011

Phalgun Shukla Trayodashi / Chaturdashi, Kaliyug Varsha 5112

Muslim killing 18 women and molesting some of them before killing has been arrested

Nanded (Maharashtra): Superintendent of Police Sandip Karnik has informed that Aziz Khan Pathan, a Muslim, who had killed 18 women following the same modus operandi and had even molested some of the women before killing, has been arrested. (Hindus must note that such news items are not telecast by any news channels or other mass media ! – Editor SP)

This cruel and lustful Muslim has admitted to his crime. For the past two years, this cruel Muslim used to attack women working in the fields in Nanded, Yeotmal, Nizamabad, Parbhani, Adilabad and Hingoli area. He used take out their ornaments, even molest some of them before killing and then run away from the place.

Source: Daily Sanatan Prabhat

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AP Samachar - 23 March, 2011

Can Bengal change?

Mar 23, 2011, 12.00am IST

There will be some sighs as the Trinamool and Congress parties finally seal their seat-sharing deal for the upcoming Bengal elections, the allies sighing in relief, the incumbent CPM in resignation at the challenge posed. With the Congress settling for 65 of 294 seats, some aspects of realpolitik come to light. Aware of the crest Mamata Banerjee is riding, the Congress has made a wise decision to not squabble over numbers but give in to its more powerful regional partner. On its side, the Trinamool recognises the advantages of the alliance, keeping the anti-Left vote together and retaining its link with the national-level party. Why the last is a plus is connected to the Left's history in Bengal.

The CPM came to power in 1977, riding a tide of hope and achieving accomplishments like Operation Barga, land transferred to sharecroppers, while maintaining communal harmony in a state that experienced horrific rioting at Partition. However, it also choked much of Bengal's civil society, party politics dominating everything - whether college entrances, job allocations, law and order, the last a terror tactic used by party musclemen snatching rights and resources. Bengal once held myriad businesses and manufacturing. Over the years, faced with regimented bullying, these dried up. Meanwhile, the state's performance in poverty reduction and education dipped, its fiscal debt rose, its professionals migrated and the desperation around land intensified. Recently attempting to rejuvenate industry, the Left blotted its copybook severely. Its 'official' goondas terrorised locals at sites like Nandigram, handing Mamata a moral advantage.

Currently, while her own precise vision for Bengal's development is yet to fully emerge, Mamata's electoral strategy has been astute. The Trinamool first broke open the CPM's rural bastion, performing well in panchayat, zila and civic elections. It won over intellectuals, roped in software guru Sabeer Bhatia to help its cyber campaign and announced FICCI secretary-general Amit Mitra's candidature, sending encouraging signals to industry.

In all this, its link with the Congress remains significant for it sends a message that Bengal's days of isolation may be over. A government working with the Centre, not constantly opposing it, could serve popular aspirations well. The implementation of poverty reduction strategies, such as NREGA, could improve in an environment divested of patronage politics and ideological wars. And being linked to a party often in central government, answerable to Parliament, could help reduce political violence in the state. It is through moves like these that Mamata can show the Trinamool Congress isn't just about realpolitik but also real change, providing the break Bengal longs for. 

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AP Samachar - 21 March, 2011

Press Meet on 18th March at Bhagyanagar

 

Sri Dusi Ramakrishna Kshetra Karyavaha is addressing the media persons, Justice S.Parvata Rao Kshetra Sanghachalak and Sri T.V.Deshmukh are also on dias.

A press meet was convened by Viswa Samvad Kendra Hyderabad at the premises of the Sangh karyalay  in Barkatpura in Hyderabad on 18th March 2011 at 11AM.

This Press conference was initiated by Shri Mallikarjun Rao of Samachar Bharathi and chaired by Justice Parvath Rao Kshetra Sangachalak and after brief introduction b y pranta Sangachalak  shri Deshmukhji. Press meet was addressed by Shri Shri Dusi Ramakrishna Kshetra Karyavaha of Karnataka & Andhra region.

Addressing the Press conference attended by the electronic and the Print Media Mr Ramakrishna informed the press about the resolutions passed at the Akhil Bharat Pratinidhi Sabha at Puttur in Karnataka. Resolutions on Anti-Corruption ,China's imperialistic designs .

He empathised that the Sangh is in the forefront of various welfare actitivities and has its presence in more than 27,000 villages with branches around 39,000. Sangh dedication to relief and rehabilitation activities are well known . 

In Andhra Pradesh , Sangh activities are most vibrant with its presence in 493 villages and with branches in more than 620. West Andhra  has more than 1401 branches in more than 1017  towns and villages . Weekly Shakas in both regions account in more than 1200 villages. 

Mr Ramakrishna explained that Sangh is educating the masses with its own publications "Loka Hitam" and "Hindu Nagara" in Telugu which reaches more than 14,000 Villages in AP.

RSS conducts camps every year aimed at personality development and train its volunteers  in Sangh work. In this context  Purva Andhra trained 1400 swayamsecvaks and Paschim Andhra has trained 3000 swayamsevaks  in a camp that ended recently lasting for one week.Similarly in the month of May , we are expecting more than 1500 swayamsevaks for a camp that shall last for more than 20 days,Mr Ramakrishan added.

Answering queries from the press,Mr Ramkrisha said "Sangh thanks courageous individuals, organizations and the constitutional institutions, alert media and vigilant Judiciary for their efforts against corruption in the present challenging scenario and offered whole hearted support as long the movement is non-political in nature. He recalled that JP movement in this context.

Mr Ramakrisha pleaded through   the media and called upon the citizens to extend their active support for noble endeavours with  utmost personal integrity and also nourish our traditional social institutions actively involved in character-building of our nation, herculean task  carried out by the Sangh .

News Paper cuttings, Printed in media on next day.

 

 

Swatantra Vaartha

• कश्मीर के प्रति अमेरिकी नीति में बदलाव के संकेत
  
  भारत में अमेरिकी राजदूत टिमोथी जे रोमर ने गत सप्ताह १८१९ मार्च की अपनी दो दिवसीय जम्मूकश्मीर यात्रा के दौरान राज्य के अलगाववादी नेताआें से मुलाकात नहीं की। टिमोथी की यह पहली यात्रा थी और इस पहली यात्रा में ही उन्होंने जम्मूकश्मीर के प्रति अमेरिकी नीति में हुए बदलाव का संकेत दिया। यह शायद पहली बार हुआ कि किसी विदेशी राजनयिक ने जम्मूकश्मीर की यात्रा की और अलगाववादी नेताआें से अपने को दूर रखा अन्यथा प्रत्येक विदेशी राजनयिक के लिए यह अपरिहार्य कर्मकांड था कि वह अलगाववादियों से अवश्य मुलाकात करे। उनसे इस बारे में जब पूछा गया तो उन्होंने साफ कहा कि वह यहां केवल निर्वाचित प्रतिनिधियों से मिलने आए थे। उन्हाेेंने यहां मुख्यमंत्री उमर अब्दुल्ला से मुलाकात की क्योंकि वही वह व्यक्ति हैं जो जम्मूकश्मीर की जनता का प्रतिनिधित्व करते हैं।
  टिमोथी ने बताया कि इस समय उनका मिशन देश के सभी प्रमुख भागों की यात्रा करना है और इस यात्रा के दौरान वह संबंधित इलाकों के युवाआें तथा छात्रों से मिलना चाहते हैं। राजनीतिक स्तर पर वह केवल निर्वाचित नेताआें से ही मुलाकात करेंगे, क्योंकि वही वास्तव में आज जनता का प्रतिनिधित्व करते हैं। पत्रकारों के बीच व्यक्त किये गये उनके इस तरह के विचारों पर कश्मीरी अलगाववादी नेताआें ने आश्चर्य व्यक्त किया है। उन्होंने अभी कोई औपचारिक वक्तव्य तो नहीं दिया है, लेकिन प्राप्त खबरों के अनुसार वे अमेरिकी रुख में आये इस बदलाव से क्षुब्ध हैं। टिमोथी द्वारा व्यक्त दृष्टिकोण केवल कश्मीर के प्रति ही नहीं, बल्कि पाकिस्तान के संदर्भ में भी महत्वपूर्ण है।
  अमेरिका अब तक खुलकर कश्मीर के संदर्भ में पाकिस्तान की नीति का समर्थन भले न करता रहा है, किंतु वह उसका मूक समर्थक तो था ही। पाकिस्तान के साथ अपनी दोस्ती की द़ृढता प्रमाणित करने के लिए उसके लिए जरुरी था कि वह यदि उसकी कश्मीर नीति का खुला समर्थन नहीं करता तो कम से कम उस पर चुप रहे। लेकिन इधर के वषा] में हुए अनुभवों से अब अमेरिका का समझ में आ गया है कि पाकिस्तान की कश्मीर नीति भी आतंकवाद को ब़ढावा देने वाली है। उसकी इस नीति के पीछे केवल इस्लामी भ्रातृत्व नहीं, बल्कि इस्लामी विस्तारवाद की भावना छिपी है। अब इस समझदारी के बाद यह अनिवार्य था कि अमेरिका कश्मीर के प्रति अपनी नीति बदले और उसे खुली अभिव्यक्ति दे।

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AP Samachar - 18 February 2011

Protest: Denigration of Hindu Gods by Mausland Entertainment

March 18, 2011

Phalgun Shukla Trayodashi/Chaturdashi, Kaliyug Varsha 5112

Denigration of Sri Shiva in Power Fox 4 game by Mausland Entertainment

Appeal to devout Hindus

Mausland Entertainment has denigrated Hindu Gods - Sri Shiva, Sri Hanuman Sri Ganesh through a game named 'Powerfox 4' in which the Hero in the game fights with Hindu Gods and defeats them. This is nothing but the humiliation and insult to the Hindu Gods and all Hindus worldwide should not tolerate this. It is duty of all Hindus worldwide to protest lawfully against Mausland Entertainment so that it should stop denigration of Hindu Gods and also it should render unconditional apology to all Hindus for hurting their religious sentiments. Also it should not denigrate Hindu Gods in the future.

Devout Hindus are protesting on following Contact Details:

Mausland Entertainment

Website : http://www.mausland.de
E-mail : info@mausland.de
Contact page : http://www.mausland.de/contactus.jsp

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AP Samachar - 17 February 2011

Japan disaster worry for global economy

March 17, 2011   7:25:40 PM

The devastating earthquake, the resulting tsunami and the threat of contamination from a damaged nuclear power plant have spooked financial markets. Investors are fretting about the effects of the disaster. If the world's third largest economy were to go under, the impact would be felt far and wide, says Erika Kinetz

Japan’s earthquake and nuclear crisis have put pressure on the already fragile global economy, squeezed supplies of goods from computer chips to auto parts and raised fears of higher interest rates.

The disaster frightened financial markets from Tokyo to Wall Street on Tuesday. Japan’s Nikkei average lost 10 per cent, and the Dow Jones industrials fell so quickly after the opening bell that the stock exchange invoked a special rule to smooth volatility.

Yet the damage to the US and world economies is expected to be relatively moderate and short-lived. Oil prices are falling, helping drivers around the world. And the reconstruction expected along Japan’s north-eastern coast could even provide a jolt of economic growth.

A weaker Japanese economy could help ease global commodity prices because Japan is a major importer of fuel, agricultural products and other raw materials, notes Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.

Even “assuming a drastic scenario,” Bank of America economist Ethan Harris estimates, the disaster would shave just 0.1 percentage point off global economist growth — to 4.2 per cent this year.

“Japan has not been an engine of global or Asian growth for some time,” says Nariman Behravesh, chief economist at IHS Global Insight. “This means that the impact of much lower Japanese growth on the world economy will be probably limited and small.”

Japan’s contribution to the world’s economy fell from 18 per cent in 1995 to nine per cent in 2010, according to CLSA. And the area hardest hit by the quake accounts for just six per cent to seven per cent of Japan’s output, about half as much as the area hit by the 1995 Kobe quake, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development estimates.

After previous catastrophes, Japan has proved resilient. After the Kobe quake, manufacturers returned to normal production levels within 15 months, according to the CLSA. Four in every five shops were back open in a year-and-a-half. All told, Japan’s comeback defied dire warnings that it would take a decade to rebuild.

For now, though, the latest quake, the resulting tsunami and the threat of contamination from a damaged nuclear plant have spooked financial markets. Investors are fretting about the effects on companies around the world. Japan, the world’s third-largest economy, accounts for about 10 per cent of US exports.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost nearly 300 points before regaining ground. It was down about 100 points, or 0.9 per cent, in late afternoon trading, after the Fed said it will stick with its $600 billion bond repurchase programme and the US economy was on a firmer footing. Stocks plunged almost 11 per cent in Japan, five per cent in Germany and four per cent in France.

Autos and auto parts make up more than one-third of US imports from Japan. As a result, shutdowns of Japanese auto factories could disrupt production at US plants owned by Japanese automakers.

At the same time, some US auto parts makers could benefit if Japanese plants in the United States substitute US parts for those they usually get from Japan, Behravesh says.

A big wild card is the fate of Japan’s damaged nuclear power plants.

“If the nuclear crisis turns into a full-blown catastrophe, then the negative effect on growth this year will be much larger,” IHS’ Behravesh says.

Another unknown is the impact of the disruptions to Japan’s power supplies. Behravesh estimates about 10 per cent of Japan’s electricity generation could be off line for several months. If so, that would disrupt steel, auto and other production.

Investors fear that Japan will struggle to finance reconstruction, which is expected to cost the Government at least $200 billion. The Japanese Government’s debt is already an alarming 225 per cent of the country’s economic output.

Some worry that Japan will sell some of its vast holdings of US Government debt to raise money. Doing so would push the prices of US Treasury bonds down and yields up, raising US interest rates.

But Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner on Tuesday dismissed the fears of a Japanese fire sale of Treasury debt.

“Japan is a very rich country and has a high savings rate,” he said. It “has the capacity to deal not just with the humanitarian challenge but also the reconstruction challenge they face ahead.”

What’s more, the Bank of Japan has been buying Treasurys and other assets as it pumps money into the financial system to restore calm.

The quake has damaged roads, ports, airports and factories, disrupting the shipment of goods in and out of Japan. The disaster blindsided multinational companies that were bracing for trouble in their transportation lines on the other side of the world — at the Suez Canal or elsewhere in West Asia where protests are destabilising countries from Bahrain to Libya, says Patrick Burnson, executive editor of Supply Chain Management.

It’s also disrupted auto production, shutting down auto and auto parts factories. Analysts at Tong Yang Securities in South Korea “do not expect production to normalise any time soon” in Japan. Even plants that stay open may have to wait for parts to arrive, a problem made worse because so many factories follow just-in-time supply management and keep few parts on hand.

Car plants in Thailand could have a harder time getting steel, much of which is imported from Japan.

Prices for goods that need Japanese parts could rise while companies scramble to find supplies. Japan supplies computer chips for cellphones and iPads. Objective Analysis Semiconductor Market Research in California predicts the quake will cause “phenomenal price swings and large near-term shortages” of those chips.

Chinese companies are bracing themselves for losses and delays from disruptions in shipments of high-end electronics and auto components from Japan and some are looking for import replacements from South Korea or Taiwan, according to the International Business Daily, the official paper of China’s Commerce Ministry.

Some analysts note that companies and consumers that now buy Japanese products can often find alternatives made elsewhere.

“What is made in Japan now has lots of competitive alternatives that didn’t exist 25 years ago,” says Peter Morici, a professor at the University of Maryland and a former director at the US International Trade Commission. “If there aren’t as many Camrys in the country this year as there might have been, you might have a couple hundred thousand additional Ford customers. If those people have good experiences with those cars, it could change buying patterns for life.”

David Rea, an economist with Capital Economics in London, said, “You’ll have Japan’s competitors — largely South Korea and Taiwan who are in high end manufacturing, and China as well — come in and undercut Japanese businesses experiencing disruption from the earthquake.”

If Japan’s infrastructure doesn’t get rebuilt quickly enough, Japanese companies may transfer production overseas to pick up the slack, Rea added.

The reconstruction of Japan’s north-eastern coast might also provide business opportunities for foreign countries. Malaysian timber, for instance, will likely be needed to rebuild homes and other buildings. IHS predicts that the quake will “ultimately boost” US exports to Japan. (AP)  

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Times of India

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Nuclear Special Issue

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• Radiation scare fills Japan’s air
• Nuclear power faces uncertain future

AP Samachar - 15 AP Samachar 2011

Division of State not Heroes

Posted on March 12, 2011 by Ayush
 

March, 10th 2011 is a sad day in the history of Hyderabad. A day when some extremist elements destroyed 19 statues of some of the greatest icons of culture and literature. This was part of the Telangana million march called by the TJAC. As the extremists took control, the rest of the crowd watched as bystanders. A classic case of how the frenzy of a crowd can go out of control of leadership.

Heroes of Bharat are worshipped above the boundaries of states, region, caste and panthas since time immemorial. The legacy of the nation has been built by people from all parts of the country and they form the cumulative heritage of the land. Guru Gobind Singh is never treated as only a Punjabi, Sivaji was never perceived to be only a Maharashtrian. Valmiki, Vyasa, Shankara, Ramanuja, Narayana Guru, Kanaka Dasa, Ravidas and thousands of other great ancestors do not represent only the region from where they were born. They represent Bharat’s tradition.

It is a very narrow mind which perceives the greatness of heroes through the glasses of region. The demand for smaller states for administrative purposes is just. But, to detach ourselves from the legacy of our great ancestors giving a regional angle to them is foolishness.

Shalivahana on whose name a entire the Shalivahana Shaka is named, Sri Krishnadevaraya who along with his ancestors stood as a bulwark against Islamic invasions in South India, Annamaya whose songs are rendered by Bhaktas across the country, Siddhendra Yogi the founder of the world-famous Kuchipudi classical dance form more than 600 years ago, Ramdas who is quoted as an epitome of Bhakti, Rani Rudramma Devi , S. Radhakrishna – 2nd President of India, Nanayya, Kshetrayya, Molla, Yogi Vemana and many more are not merely regional entities. They represent the cumulative heritage of Bharat.

The destruction of these statues is an insult of the collective wisdom of Bharat. This is a day of shame for the people of Bhagyanagar ( Hyderabad ) who allowed the destruction of these statues. While it is true that there are hundreds of other great people born here whose statues must be there, it is not a justification to destroy statues of existing greats.

A nation is judged by the treatment it gives to the heroes of the land. This is a time when all nationalists must rise and raise their voice to make the leaders of the movement hear that we will not allow division of our heroes . A division of state need not mean division in the hearts of people and definitely not division of our heroes.

dhanyavaad

Ayush

Clik the link below to other details :

Statues damaged and thrown into Tank Bund!

 

 

Rashtriya Swayamsek Sangh

Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha-2011

March 11, 12, 13, Puttur- Karnataka

Anuual report presented by RSS Sarakaryavah (General Secretary) Sri Suresh Joshi

Parampoojaneeya Sarsanghchaalakji, respected Akhil Bharatiya office bearers, honorable members of Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal, respected praant and kshetra Sanghchalaks, karyavahas, members of Pratinidhi Sabha, specially invited brothers and sisters working in different fields of social action  – all of you are welcome to this Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha being held in Yugabda 5112  i.e. March 2011.

It is but natural to remember all those great personalities who awakened the spirit of affection, feeling of commitment to one’s duty and total devotion to goals and ideals dear to all of us; but who are no more with us.

Respected Kalidas ji Basu, a renowned legal luminary, a great pillar of strength for Sangh work from its inception in Bengal, one whose guidance through his incisive thinking in many difficult situations benefited our karyakartas has left us. Shri Shaligram ji Tomar, who nurtured A.B.V.P. for years in Madhya Bharat left behind his earthly existence after fighting many physical ailments since last few years. Prachar Pramukh of Nagpur city, Shri. Vijay ji Patki, whose father was a close associate of Parampoojaneeya Doctor ji, was seriously injured in a road accident. All efforts to save him proved futile and he departed from this world. A sunny personality with every ready smile, Shri Somasunderji who was vibhag pracharak of Andhra Pradesh, prant boudhik pramukh and looking after Sanskrit Bharati work currently was suffering from Cancer for some time. He has also departed from this world. Past Sanghchalak of Brij prant respected Krishna Sahay ji passed away at a ripe old age.

Former Sanghchalak of Delhi prant respected Satyanarayan ji Bansal, who played a crucial role in many social service projects, passed  away in old age after prolonged illness. Recently, Senior Pracharak Shri. Arvindrao Chauthaiwale, Seva Pramukh of V.H.P. departed us due to Sevier heart attack. Shrimati Sudesh Malik ji, karyavahika of Rajasthan region of Rashtra Sevika Samiti and Shrimati Usha Jain ji founder member of Matrishakti Seva Nyas of Agra founded under the auspices of V.H.P., also left for their heavenly abode in the past year. Resident of Vidarbha Shri Babasaheb Takwale, who was General Secretary of A.B. Kisan Sangh and used to guide farmers with his deep study of agriculture, had played a major role in growth of Kisan Sangh; as also senior swayamsevak of Jalandhar, Shri Balkishen Vaid who was also former Boudhik pramukh of Punjab prant, and Shri Satya Raju, former head of Sewa karya in Andhra are also no more with us. We always used to receive blessings for our work from Parampoojneeya Shankaracharya of Karveer Peeth (Kolhapur) Vidyashankar Bharati, who departed from this material world.  Shrimati Sumatitai Sukalikar, who had a special place in Maharashtra’s political life due to her highly respected words and actions, also left behind her memories and left us in this flow of time.

A great poet Shri Uttam Muley who had made a place for himself with his impressive writings in Dalit literature and contributed greatly to maintain harmony and co-operative spirit in the society; Shri Vamanrao Nimbalkar recognized as a creative writer also left this world. One of the best ‘shahir’ from Mumbai, Vitthal Umap ji completed his life’s journey on the stage at Deeksha Bhoomi, Nagpur itself while performing his play. Shri Prabhakar Panshikar who had carved a niche for himself on Marathi stage and gave pleasure to thousands of his fans in Marathi theatre merged back into the five elements. A rich voice that carried deep emotions that enraptured the hearts of millions of souls with his rich devotional songs, shastriya sangeet, great singer, Eternally shining Sun of music, Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi left behind his musical voice for us and passed into eternity. Well known personalities of Gujarati music Shri Dilipbhai Dholakia ji also departed from this world. Highly energetic spokesperson for Swadeshi philosophy and life style, leader of Desh Bhachao movement, a person who could arouse unrivalled support for Swadeshi movement, Shri Rajeev Dikshit was snatched away from us by cruel fate in prime of his life.

Resident of Gorakhpur and former Governor, Shri Mahavir Prasad, top leader of Congress Shri Karunakarn, senior literature and former Chairman of A.B. Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, Shri Subhash Bhende; Founder of Sadvichar Parivar and an ever dedicated person to humanitarian work Shri Haribhai Panchal are no more with us. Famous industrialist of Gujarat, Shri Pranlal  Bhogilal who always used to support us in various activities and had earned respect due to his social activities; as also Shri Ishwarbhai Patel who worked in the field of sewa and social harmony with inspiration from Mahatma Gandhiji completed their live’s journeys.

These great souls are the ones who led an exemplary ideal life of purity and transparency even as they trod the self chosen path of duty, firm in their faith for the ideals for which they lived.

We shall feel surcharged with energy by simply remembering such noble souls. We shall never be able to see them again through our physical eyes. They shall always live in our memories.

We express our deep condolences for our brethren who departed from this world due to accidents that took place during Sabarimala yatra and natural disasters, or died due to violence perpetrated by terrorists and Naxalites, and we pay our homage to noble departed souls.

Overview of Activities

Sangh Shiksha Vargas were organized at 70 places all over Bharat between May to June 2010 like every year. Camps for Pratham Varsh (First Year) were held as per programmes decided by respective prants (states) and Dweetaya Varsh (Second Year) camps were organized at Kshetra (Zonal) level. Camps in South were planned on the basis of languages. Second Year training camps for senior swayamsevaks  were organized at four places all over Bharat, viz. Kanyakumari, Delhi, Ranchi and Vadodara.  Triteeya Varsh (Third year) training camp was held in Nagpur as usual.  There was no special third year training in the last year. This will be organized in the winters this year.

11556 swayamsevaks took part from 7230 places in the First Year Camps, 2678 swayamsevaks participated from 2087 places for the Second Year; 497 participants from 370 places for special Second year (for seniors), and 877 swayamsevaks from  788 places took part in Third Year training camp. 63741 swayamsevaks from 24530 places participated in the Prathamik  Shiksha Vargas all over Bharat.

Retired Chief Secretary of Assam state, Shri J. S. Rajkhowa, was the Chief Guest in the concluding ceremony of the Third Year.

As per information available, at present 39908 shakhas are active in 27078 places all over Bharat. Sangh work is also going on through 7990 Saptahik Milans (Weekly get-togethers) and 6431 Sangh Mandalis at different places in Bharat.

Critical analysis of quantitative aspect of Sangh work was done during the meeting of   A. B. Karyakari Mandal in Jalgaon in October 2010. There was constructive discussion about the causes of growth or lack of growth in different places. We have received information about some good experiments. It was felt that qualitative analysis should also be done along with quantitative analysis.

Tours of Parampoojaneeya Sarsanghchalak

The core message in the tours undertaken at Kshetra level by Parampoojaneeya  Sarsanghchalak was about ‘karyakarta’.  Interactive programmes with discussions and questions-answers  sessions organized by Sampark vibhag with renowned influential celebrities in small groups in Mumbai, Surat, Sambhajinagar, Bhuvaneshwar, Sambalpur, Dhanbad etc. proved to be great success.   A programme, called ‘Samvad’ witnessed the presence of 165 influential leaders from all walks of social life in Pune.

During the tours of other A.B. adhikaris under programmes organized at national level, constructive discussions were held about work among College students, growth at ‘Nagar’ level and quality of work.

Special Mentions

Ghosh Varg:

Training workshops or camps were organized at state level by Ghosh vibhag in some states. 2363 swayamsevaks took part at 13 places. National Ghosh Varg was held in Lucknow which saw presence of 298 swayamsevaks.

Nav Chaitanya Shivir:

A special camp was held for College students and other young swayamsevaks of Merut prant in Merut. There were 2247 participants from all over the state. The trainees had come from 644 places, 416 colleges and 89 hostels. Highlight of the camp was that there were 1061 new entrants. Programmes were conducted in such a way that they would arouse a sense of responsibility for the society and nation in the youth.  Camp participants expressed firm resolve about issues like Water management, environment, blood donation, eye donation etc. This was the achievement of this camp.  Karyakartas of Merut prant had begun preparatory work from July 2010 for this camp with various programmes to make this camp a big success.

Workshop conducted for College and University teachers in Punjab:

Special exercises were undertaken in Punjab to improve participation of College students and teachers teaching in colleges and universities in Sangh work. Small group meetings were organized in all districts and efforts were done to see that literature about Sangh is studied, and students begin attending local shakhas.

Poojaneeya  Sarsanghchalak’s programme was organized as a part of this exercise in October 2010 in Amritsar.  Many directors, vice-chancellors, deans, heads of departments and principals were present in this workshop to make it a success. Total number of participants was 248 and a plan for follow up action is in place. Mailing of e-bulletin twice a month has begun.

Vishal Sanchalan (Grand parade) in Malwa prant and other programmes:

Malwa prant had organized sanchalan (parade) programmes at district/vibhag level for extending its mass contact and expansion of Sangh work. Sanchalans (Parades) were conducted in 5 places in the prant that saw participation of 43600 swayamsevaks. Public programmes of physical drills were conducted at 3 places in which 2077 swayamsevaks participated. Winter camps saw 10387 young swayamsevaks’ participation.

Support to Narmada Samajik Kumbh by Mahakoshal prant:

A detailed plan was made for the entire prant to seek co-operation from society at large. Heads for districts, gatnayak pramukhs and gatnayaks were nominated. A programme was chalked out that each gatnayak would contact a minimum of 20 households and get support for the kumbh in form of one kg rice, half a kg of pulses and donation of One rupee.  This mass contact programme was undertaken in 27 districts of Mahakoshal prant in 214 places through 641 shakhas. In all 21593 swayamsevaks contacted 502674 families and collected 386 tonnes of food grain.

Special achievement of the programme was that swayamsevaks were able to invoke support from the families and households at different levels of society. As a follow up, plans are afoot to conduct workshops for introducing Sangh in small villages, inculcating family values through various programmes and Bharatmata poojan. Plans are also afoot to send greetings on the occasion of Varsh Pratipada (Hindu New Year).

Relief work for flood affected families in North Karnataka:  

Floods in North Karnataka last year resulted in destruction of large number of villages and displacement of thousands of families. Relief material for 180 villages with the help of 2400 swayamsevaks was arranged immediately. It was resolved to build 1680 homes in 9 villages for rehabilitation under the auspices of ‘Sewa Bharati’. So far, 130 houses have been handed over in 2 Villages.  Handing over ceremony of houses in Sabbalahunasi village of Bagalkot dist. was done at the hands of Poojaneeya Sudarshanji in the presence of Shri Govind Karnol Minister of Karnataka state government.

Meeting for Social Harmony in West Maharashtra:

644 brethren from 66 communities in 11 places came together in West Maharashtra for Social harmony meetings.  These meetings were organized in the presence of A.B. Sewa Pramukh Shri Sitaram ji.  There was a special Bharatmata Poojan in Talegaon of Pune district on 26^th January. It saw participation of organizations of different castes, linguistic groups and educational institutions. 1498 citizens participated in this programme.

His Holiness Shankaracharya’s programme in  Devgiri prant:

Missionary activities are going on for past many years in Navapur tehsil of Nandurbar district adjoining Gujarat state. There would be objections to any kind of Hindu religious programmes. A five day Padyatra of His Holiness Shankaracharya of Karveer Peeth walk was organized in such an area.  4000 tribal homes were contacted in 20 villages during this walk. Tribal get-togethers were held in 3 places.  Participation of matrishakti (Woman), in great numbers in these programmes was noticeable.

Kashmir Merger Day:

Public programmes were organized on October 26, the day on which Kashmir was merged with Bharat. 2491 programmes were organized in 2018 places that saw presence of 99380 women and 308708 men. Apart from this, programmes were also organized in 8917 shakhas at 7603 places in which 179809 young swayamsevaks and 72466 school going swayamsevaks took part.

Follow up action on Vishwa Mangal Gau Gram Yatra:

A national level three day conference was held at Kanyakumari for the organizations working in the field of Rural upliftment. 154 karyakartas including 27 sisters from 65 organizations participated in this conference. 

In the same way, Akhil Bharatiya Gram Vikas Varg (National Rural Development Workshop) was also held at Deendayal Dham in Farah of District Mathura. 188 active karyakartas from all prants involved in rural development took part in this workshop. Poojaneeya Sudarshan ji was present in this workshop. Guidance from experienced experts on varied subjects like water, earth and forest conservation, environment, bio-diversity, cottage industry, village health etc. was received. Renowned Gandhian Padmashri Shri Kutti Menon ji was specially present in this workshop.

Meeting of Mahila (women) karyakartas of Sewa Vibhag:

A special meeting was organized in Nagpur to discuss the projects run by women karyakartas and for women. 127 karyakartas from 15 prants took part in this meeting. Ideas were discussed about an independent initiative to bring together and co-ordinate such women oriented projects. It was felt that some more activities also need to be taken up about various problems faced by women.

Dharna programme

Hindutva is being tarnished with terms like Hindu terrorism, Saffron terrorism etc. Efforts are also being made to drag Sangh into this controversy. Public resentment against this kind of politics must be exhibited; with this objective a programme was chalked out to offer ‘dharna’ in all the district centres of Bharat on 10^th November. This programme was widely successful across Bharat though it was taken up at a very short notice.

Almost one million, to be more exact 10,58,438 citizens were present in 750 places for this dharna. Participation in big numbers by mothers and sisters, well organized and disciplined way the dharnas were offered were the highlights of this programme. Highest number of participation of 25000 citizens in Jabalpur. At a short notice, success of programme shows the feelings within the society about the subject. This programme has raised the self confidence of karyartas in a big way.

Press Conferences

A programme had been chalked out at the meeting of A.B.  Karyakari Mandal held in Jalgaon, to conduct press conferences at state centres. 3492 journalists were present in 224 places. Approach of media  to these press meets was positive. By giving requisite coverage to these press conferences, media has shown sensitivity and respect to the popular feeling.

National Scenario

Decision on Ram Janmabhoomi by Allahabad High Court

Decision handed down by Lucknow Bench of Allahabad High Court on 30^th September is an acceptance of the faith and belief of Crores of Hindus. Legal system of our country has not only kept their feelings in mind but has based its decision on all the facts available to it in this regard, thus respecting the sentiments of the people.

Some vested interests had tried to generate a tense atmosphere before the ruling. But, restraint and calm that different communities and groups have shown after the decision was made public is in tune with the culture and traditions of this country. But, Hindu society desires that all sections of the society should come together to build a grand temple for Lord Ram and present an ideal example of amity and goodwill.  Enthusiastic participation of people in large numbers during the Hanumat Shakti Jagaran programmes conducted all over the country is an indication of this feeling. These programmes took place at 11467 places and attended by 63,78,680 people of which 21,22,669 were women. 

Now, there is a need to pass a law in the Parliament with consensus of all law makers to clear the way for temple construction.

Terrorism

Thousands of innocent people, police and military personnel have been killed mercilessly during the continued Jihadi terrorism in last two decades.  National security is sought to be destructed time and again. Not only Bharat, but the whole world community is suffering from terrorism.  But, it is unfortunate that anti-Hindu forces in our country are trying to weaken the efforts to counter Jihadi terrorism by labeling the Hindu community as terrorist by citing a few incidents.

Instead of assuring security to patriotic Hindu organizations, holy saints and centres of faith of Hindu society, these people are trying to create confusion about these forces in the minds of common people. With a selfish urge to remain in power or capture power, policies are being framed to pander to some communities while closing eyes to the anti-national and terrorist forces. So called leaders consider Hindu organizations to be even a greater danger than the elements fomenting Islamic terrorism. They are not even shy of sharing such views with foreign powers.

But, we are sure that Hindu society can see through this conspiracy. It will foil all such attempts to manufacture falsehood and create confusion, and will co-operate wholeheartedly with the efforts towards nation building in future.

Worrisome situation in Jammu & Kashmir

A consensus regarding complete and final merger of Kashmir with Bharat has been arrived at many a times since 1947, but situation in Jammu-Kashmir remains a cause of worry.  Infact, the root cause of Jammu-Kashmir problem is weak and indecisive policies of the central government. We have not been successful in achieving integration and sense of oneness in social, mental, economic and  political sense in Jammu-Kashmir as we have done in other states of our country inspite of providing grants worth lakhs of crores of rupees for various projects and plans, sacrifice of more than one lakh innocent citizens and thousands of jawans of police and army during last 63 years.  Various political parties are strengthening the forces of separatism directly or indirectly to fulfill their vested political interests. Conspiracy to remove all Hindus from the valley by forcing more than 4 lakh indigenous Hindus to run away from Kashmir, armed incursions from across the border, open support by ISI and terrorist commanders of Pakistan to leaders of active separatist organizations and training the youth, providing them with arms etc.; are all forms of undeclared war against Bharat. Having failed to fulfill their objectives through terrorism, they have changed their tactics now. Agitational terrorism is but a new form of terrorism.

Anti-national forces are striking their roots deeper with time. Separatist forces are engaged in anti-Bharat propaganda by organizing seminars in capital city of Delhi and other cities.

The real truth is that these anti-Bharat agitations are limited to only 5 out of 22 districts of Jammu-Kashmir. Gujjars, Bakarwals, Shias, Kashmiri Sikhs and Pandits, various refugee groups in Jammu, Dogras, Buddhists and nationalist Muslims are not part of this separatist movement. But, atmosphere being created all around is as if entire Jammu-Kashmir wants to secede from Bharat. Actually, less than half of the population from only 14% of the state’s area is part of this agitation. By using women and boys to throw stones at security forces anti-national groups spread across Bharat are trying to create an atmosphere with the help of media as if all the citizens of the valley want independence or ‘azadi’.

Negation of complete merger of Jammu-Kashmir with Bharat by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, claiming Jammu-Kashmir to be a disputed territory, creation of such an environment by interlocutors of the Centre  and open support to them by Central government and Congress leaders indicates that separatists, State and the Central government have embarked upon such a path to strike some agreement. It is difficult to imagine what kind of pronouncements would have been made had Indian Army and other nationalist forces not exerted pressure. Terming Jammu-Kashmir as a political problem and reversing its merger that began in 1953 when Dr. Mukherjee sacrificed his life and Praja Parishad conducted a historic agitation;  there are now talks about formulae of autonomy, self-rule etc.

Bogey of ‘Human Rights violations’ is being raised by citing a few incidents. It is extremely important that morale of Armed forces is kept high by maintaining their special powers. This is the only way that security of common people would be assured.

It is call of the times that strong action be taken against separatist elements and nationalist forces be strengthened. People in different states of the country must pressurize state and central governments in an organized manner. This is the only way that unity of the nation would be secured. Jammu-Kashmir should also have the same sense of unity with Bharat like other states. Keeping in mind the activities across the border, only solution to achieve this is abrogation of article 370, system of separate constitution and separate flag be scrapped and treating it like any other state. The right solution to this problem is to establish a sense of one country – on people – one nation.

Atrocities on Rabha Hindus

Incidents that took place on the first day of Christian New year near the border areas of Assam and Meghalay are a pointer to us about the dangers that we would face in future. Garo and Rabha communities are living together for many generations with cordial relations. They celebrate their festivals and follow their traditions happily together. Both the groups have been staying together respecting each others’ sentiments and respecting each other’s faith and beliefs. With increase in conversions to Christianity and a large section of Garo tribes converting to Christianity, there is a widening chasm between Garo and Rabha tribes.  With failure to convert people of Rabha community to Christianity these differences have widened further, resulting in an atmosphere of intolerance. Despite this Rabha community had been co-operating in the programmes organized by Christian missionaries. After Meghalaya got the status of a State, political influence of Garo community became stronger, resulting in increase in Missionary activities. This is the reason behind current atmosphere of confrontation, violence and terror between Garo and Rabha people. Combined efforts of separatist elements, Bangladeshi infiltrators Muslims and some political leaders have generated a situation of conflict. This is the atmosphere that led to the horrible incidents in the initial weeks of January.

Conflicts between Dimasa and Karbi, Dimasa and Jemi in the past few   years  are a manifestation of activities of such anti-national forces. Violence of January 2011 reminds us of such incidents that took place earlier too. So called secular lobby is only exposing its pseudo-secularism by turning a blind eye to these facts.

Meghalaya government does not have courage to get to the root of the issue and is trying to pass it off as a result of misunderstandings. Nearly 30000 Rabha brethren from 30 villages have become homeless. There is an urgent need for their permanent rehabilitation and security.

Hindus have faced serious security concerns wherever they have become a minority in North East.  Assamese, Bengalis and Hindi speaking groups have been forced to flee from Shillong region of Meghalaya  earlier too.  They have been forced to live their lives as refugees in other states since last 13 years. 40000 Riyangs, who follow their own faith, were also forcibly displaced. It is critically important to defend the traditions and faiths of various tribes in this region.

Corruption: A Challenge

Various studies expose the terrible extent of corruption. Increasing consumerism has led to lust for self-aggrandizement, resulting in urge to accumulate wealth through unethical and illegal means. This is the root cause of this problem of corruption.  There is a strong tendency to misuse constitutional positions. We are witnessing devastation of constitutional system due to this mentality. Unfortunately, there are question marks about the safety of the people who are opposing this and trying to clean up the system. It is extremely important that there should be serious thinking by the policy makers of the nation, economic experts and social thinkers about the effect on fiscal system and economic stability resulting from black money and corruption and methodologies to create a healthy system. Serious efforts must be made to bring back illegal wealth stashed away in foreign lands.

Increasing support from the common people to agitations being organized by different groups and organizations gives us a clear indication about the public opinion in this regard.

Positive signs of Hindu awakening

Maa Narmada Samajik Kumbh

Maa Narmada Samajik Kumbh took place in February 2011 in Mandla. This Kumbh has manifested extra-ordinary power of the society. Maa Narmada Samajik Kumbh was organized to awaken the people against social problems and efforts to weaken the Hindu society. This festival saw participation of 415 different scheduled castes and scheduled tribes and 400 other social groups from 4000 villages of 1179 tehsils from 336 districts. It is estimated that nearly 30lac pilgrims took part in the Kumbh during these three days. Presence of Revered Shankaracharya Vasudevanand Saraswati ji Maharaj, Revered Satyamitranand ji, Sadhvi Ritambharaji, Revered Asaram Bapu and many other saints and sadhus made this kumbh a great success. Other important dignitaries like Parmpoojaneeya Sarsanghchalak Shri Mohanrao Bhagwat, Chief of Rashtra Sevika Samiti Vandaneeya Pramilatai, Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh Shri Shivraj Chauhan and Dr. Raman Singh were also present in this programme. The highlight of this festival was the co-operation of common people and the state government for this programme.

Vishwa Sanskrit Pustak Mela (World Sanskrit Book Fair)

Prestigious Sanskrit institutions came together to organize Vishwa Sanskrit Pustak Mela. This fair was conducted with the help of 14 Sanskrit Universities,  National Sanskrit institute, Akhil Bharatiya Sanskrit Pustak Prakashan Sangh and Sanskrit Bharati etc. from 7 to 10 January 2010. This is the first time in the chequered history of Sanskrit that such a programme was organized.

128 publishers exhibited their publications at this fair. Specialty of this fair was that only Sanskrit books and books about Sanskrit were show cased.  12 lakhs books worth 4 crore were sold in this period of 4 days. 4 lakhs people visited the fair. An exhibition titled ‘Gyanganga’ (Traditions of Bharatiya Knowledge) was a major attraction of this fair, and left even well versed citizens in awe.

 7146 delegates from 26 states and 12 countries were present in the fair. 310 Sanskrit books were released on this occasion which was a record by itself.

Vishwa Sangh Shivir

Vishwa Adhyayan Kendra organized a camp in Pune from 29 December 2010 to 3 January 2011 in Pune, that saw enthusiastic participation of 330 brothers, 152 sisters and 35 children from 35 countries. Shri Jagdish Shastriji who had initiated the Hindu organised work outside Bharat was also present in the camp. Discussions were held about status of Hindus staying outside Bharat, spreading and publicizing Hindu Sanskriti, organization of Hindu conferences at different places etc. Delegates were also given information about various types of activities being conducted in Bharat. Concluding valedictory public function was held in the presence of famous industrialist Shri. Abhay Firodia and Shri. Bhausaheb Chitale. Parampoojaneeya  Sarsanghchalak ji addressed the august gathering. 15000 distinguished citizens participated in this function. Brethren from overseas enjoyed the cultural programmes presented by local groups and a  drama titled ‘Shiv Rajyabhishek’ about coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Appeal

We undertake a critical appraisal of our Sangh work even as we review the current social and political scenario from time to time. This is how we traditionally work. Keeping in mind the challenges that we face and expectations of the society, we have to increase our velocity and strength in a sustained manner. It is necessary for us to keep focus on strengthening our organization and systems and increasing the strength of our karyakartas.

Here we recall the words of Parampoojaneeya Sri Guruji. He had said, “World today understands only one language – language of strength. A nation can progress and maintain its position only on the basis of strong foundation and immeasurable strength. We must proceed on this path of duty with great effort with this sentiment. Even an ordinary person can be completely successful in attaining one’s goal in life with this resolve.”

Resolution  1

Need for a decisive blow against corruption

The Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha expresses grave concern over the endless chain of incidents of widespread corruption surfacing in the country. It is all the more shocking that the people occupying the upper echelons in the Government, including the Prime Minister are engaged in protecting their guilty colleagues till the end by describing them as innocent in spite of incontrovertible evidences pouring out against them.

The ABPS is deeply pained at the way the cases of corruption coming to light, day in and day out are tarnishing the image and reputation of the nation. The magnitude of corruption is such that not only the common man, but even the experts get bewildered. The gross misdeeds in organizing the Commonwealth games have gravely damaged the prestige of the country.  People at the helm of power are either turning a blind eye or taking steps against the guilty as an eye wash under the pressure of the judiciary and media. The country wants to know as to what was the compulsion and which invisible hand was behind the misdemeanor of the top rung of power in a most sensitive matter like the appointment of the Central Vigilance Commissioner.

Unfortunately, the influence of politics is growing in almost every walk of life and the instances of corruption indulged in by the people in seats of power in the post independence era are constantly on the rise. After the Independence, the country has witnessed public anger against corruption resulting in powerful mass movements. The J. P. movement of 1974-75 and imposition of emergency and the mass movement triggered by the Bofors scandal in 1987-1989 culminated in the change of power at the center. But, the change does not seem to have brought about any decline in corruption. On the contrary the form and dimensions of corruption seem to have become more complex and extensive in the wake of economic liberalization. Whether it is the share scandal of 1992 or the recent 2G spectrum scandal, mind boggling figures of money are found to be involved. What needs special mention is that the people involved in these ever increasing acts of corruption are the ones who are highly educated and belong to the affluent class of the society. All these facts clearly indicate that there is need for further intensification and expansion of the process of man-making. 

In this regard the ABPS believes that there is a dire need to organise every rung of social order on the firm foundation of value-based and morally strong conduct of life rooted in the eternal principles of Dharma. This is possible only by reorienting education-system to reflect the national ethos and serve as an effective instrument of character-building and imparting noble samskars. At the same time it is imperative for the people in high positions that they present exemplary models of conduct in their private and public life.

Apart from these reforms of far-reaching consequences, reform in the system of governance & administration and mobilising effective public opinion in favour of that, is equally important. Transparency in governance, administration through minimum and simplified regulations, judicial system based on easy access and timely dispensation of justice, elimination of black money, electoral system capable of effectively curbing the criminalisation of politics and checking the growing influence of money power are a few reforms urgently needed. It is also imperative to ensure proper security for the whistle blowers who courageously expose corruption in the present system at different levels and to have stringent penal provisions against the corrupt. Indeed the poisonous creeper of corruption is responsible for all the contemporary social ills like inflation, unemployment and black money which has also been affecting the country’s development and the internal and external security. In connection with the problem of black money, the government should acquire black money stashed in the country and outside, declare it as the nation’s asset and deploy it for developmental purposes.

 The ABPS appreciates the efforts of such courageous individuals, organizations ,  constitutional institutions, alert media and vigilant Judiciary for their efforts against corruption in the present challenging scenario and calls upon the countrymen to extend their active support for such noble endeavours with utmost personal integrity and also nourish our traditional social institutions actively involved in character-building of our citizens.   

  

Resolution  2

Defeat Chinese Designs against

our National Interests and Security

The Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha expresses serious concern over the growing multi-dimensional threat from China and the lackluster response of the Government of Bharat to its aggressive and intimidator tactics. Casual attitude and perpetual denial of our Government in describing gross border violations by the Chinese People's Liberation Army as a case of 'lack of common perception on the LAC', attempts to underplay the severe strategic dissonance between the two countries and failure to expose the expansionist and imperialist manouvers of China can prove fatal to our national interests.

The ABPS cautions that the growing civilian and defence ties between China and Pakistan are a matter of grave concern to our national security. Presence of the 10,000-strong Chinese Army in Skardu ( PoK) in the guise of construction works and repairs to Karakoram highway is a serious issue as it allows China to encircle Kashmir . Other issues of concern that best exemplify Chinese' assertiveness include its offer to export one - Gigawatt (GW) nuclear plant and transfer of ballistic missile technology to Pakistan thus precipitating potential nuclear conflict in the region.

The malafide intentions of China are conspicuous in a number of recent developments. It has falsely charged Bharat of occupying 90,000 sq. km of its territory (including Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim); It is excluding the state of J&K from Bharat in its maps; It is also excluding 1600 KM-long border in J&K from the LAC on the Tibet-Bharat border; It has initiated issuing paper visas for Bharatiya  citizens from J&K besides citizens from Arunachal Pradesh. The Chinese troops entered Gombir area in Demchok region last year and threatened the civilian workers to stop construction work. In November 2009, a road project under Centrally-sponsored National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) in Ladakh, was stopped after objections were raised by the Chinese Army. Infact, it is China which has encroached upon our territory inside the LOC in that region and constructed a 54 km long road for military purposes.

The ABPS sees potential danger from the Chinese machinations in our North East. Its continued claims over Arunachal Pradesh shouldn't be taken lightly as it has set its eyes not only on that state but on the entire North East. Recent expose' in a leading Bharatiya weekly about the extent of the involvement of China in arming, encouraging and funding insurgent groups like the NSCN should awaken us to this danger. Besides NSCN insurgents other insurgent groups in the North East like the NDFB, ULFA etc also get patronage from China. It is also a matter of serious concern that the ISI too is operating in cahoots with China in this region. The A.B.P.S. expresses concern over the growing number of cases of Chinese spies being arrested in different parts of the country.

It is well-known that the weapons from the Chinese government weapon manufacturers find their way to the Maoists and other terrorist groups in Bharat through illegal weapon ports like Cox Bazar in Bangladesh. Fake currency also is being pumped into Bharat from China. The ABPS wants to draw the attention of the Government and people to the occasional publications in the officially-controlled Chinese media about dismembering Bharat into 20-30 pieces.

  Penetration of Chinese goods into Bharatiya  market is affecting our manufacturing industry adversely besides posing a serious challenge to our security, health, environment and strategic concerns. The ABPS wants the Government to tackle this issue of China's penetration into our system through trade and commerce with utmost seriousness. All citizens should refrain from using Chinese products as an expression of patriotism.

The ABPS wants to draw the attention of our government and countrymen to the threat from China in the form of diversion of river waters in the South Central  Tibetan region. In the process it would be robbing lower riparian states like Bharat, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Thailand of their right to the waters from rivers like Brahmaputra and Sindhu which originate from Kailash - Manasarovar in Tibet. Joint mechanism established in 2007 between Bharat and China to oversee water related issues remain dysfunctional mainly due to the utmost secrecy maintained by China in its water management plans. Two of our states i.e. Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh were hit by flash floods and it was suspected at that time that these floods were due to some form of interference in the river flow by the Chinese. Our engineers were not allowed to inspect the upper streams of the river by the Chinese government. The ABPS warns the government that unless the issue is addressed immediately the situation may lead to serious crises between the two countries.

The ABPS urges our Government to take note of the expanding military and diplomatic might of China not only in the immediate neighbourhood but also in the strategically important regions like Africa and the West Asia. China's 3.1 million strong  Army is being rapidly modernized with newer weapons and technology. It has built all-weather roads and extended railway network along Tibet, Nepal and Bharat border. China today is a formidable player in the Indian Ocean region. It is establishing contact with all kinds of renegade dictators in the world including the North Korean and Sudanese dictators. Its strategic experts are propounding such disdainfully dangerous theories like Preventive Use of Nuclear Weapons suggesting that China should reserve the right of first attack against any nuclear power with nuclear weapons as a preventive measure.

In such a challenging scenario the ABPS calls upon the government to:

1.        Reiterate the Parliament’s unanimous resolution of 1962 to get back the territory acquired by    China to the last inch.

2.        Take effective measures for rapid modernization and upgradation of our military infrastructure. Special focus should be on building infrastructure in the border areas. Towards that, constitution of a Border Region Development Agency should be considered which would help prevent the migration of the people from the border villages.

3.         Use aggressive diplomacy to expose the Chinese' designs globally. Use all fora including ASEAN, UN etc for mobilizing global opinion.

4.         Disallow Chinese manufacturing industry free run in our markets. Prohibit Chinese products like toys, mobiles, electronic and electrical goods etc. Illegal trade being carried out through the border passes must be curbed with iron hand.

5.        Follow strict Visa norms and maintain strict vigil on the Chinese nationals working in Bharat.

6.         Restrict the entry of Chinese companies in strategic sectors and sensitive locations.

7.         Mobilize the lower riparian states like Myanmar, Bangladesh etc to tell China to stop their illegal diversion of river waters.