tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88265438538154887842024-03-12T18:09:20.282-07:00Everything For India !A Mini-Blog-Bridge Between India and Me !Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-30215901083303963292018-09-03T03:28:00.000-07:002018-12-14T11:29:14.919-08:00Tyranny and Treachery<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP
Government has miserably failed on each account and the Indian electorate is
feeling the punch now. <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Disclaimer:</i> This essay may look
like a myriad mix of issues put together to make a larger point. Yes it is,
because if we look through the dirty dingy kaleidoscope of Modi Govt’s failures;
where each failure reflects on the other ; we come across the real tyranny and treachery of the Modi regime. </span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We are seeing at multiple issues boxed into one fascist regime- A regime
where a fringe party has become mainstream but has not shed its core divisive
emotive agendas. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At the cost of being long, this
essay reflects that deep-seated treachery which every Indian is feeling at the
hands of Narendra Modi and sometimes is unable to articulate. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
deep sense of betrayal has engulfed the people of India. A million mutinies are
taking place in the hearts and minds of the people. Everyday a new socio-political
issue bothers them and for a moment and enrages a feeling of utter disappointment.
That is the moment of truth. Some try to brush that aside by imagining the
alternative, which they feel would be inferior. Some try to find silver linings
of religion in the dark clouds of despair and want to cling to that line to justify
their choice. Some have just learnt to take all this in stride and have given
up altogether. Some have manifested their mutinies by active political and
societal participation and have borne the brunt of the backlash from the state.
Some have just remained silent for the quinquennial ritual of democracy to
arrive and shall only react through the ballot to reply in kind to the tyranny
of the present dispensation. Yes, we all are feeling a churning within; but we
all are guided by our very own paths to reciprocate to this deep sense of
betrayal which the Narendra Modi Government has forced India to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
world’s largest democracy’s present fascist regime is jailing people in public
life on concocted charges of building an ‘anti-fascist front’ and justifying it
by linking a Dalit-Maratha self-engineered tension to a Naxal plot. On top of
it, it uses the perceived excesses of the previous regime as a convenient alibi
to justify its sins. Fighting Naxalism is not a sin. But targeting individuals in the name of fighting Naxalism is a sin. Naxalism is the biggest
internal security threat which India is facing since the last couple of
decades. It is a roadblock to development in one third of our districts. It can
be prevented by various methods. Force is only one of them. Engagement is
always a better option. Inducements and leverages are a third. Development and
confidence building is the best option. Sometimes all of them have to work
together in tandem to wipe it out. Congress has done it in the past in many states-
Andhra Pradesh & Maharashtra. Also, No other party has borne the brunt of
Naxalism, as does the Congress. Its entire Chhattisgarh top brass was wiped out
few years ago. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you a have political
will and support of the locals, you can wipe it off. Targeting NGO’s, activists,
writers et al, only reveals a mindset of a fascist impotent regime that lacks
the statecraft, the democratic principles and the roadmap to tackle this
serious and sensitive issue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Moreover,
Dalits and Marathas have been peacefully living together in Maharashtra since
ages and Dalits have been observing the Bhima Koregaon anniversary peacefully
since decades. The cheapest form of appeasement politics laced with religious
fundamentalism has been employed by the BJP to ‘divide and conquer’ these
castes in Maharashtra. They are employing the same tactic in Haryana (Jats vs
Non-Jats) and Uttar Pradesh (Brahmins vs Rajputs). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Emotive
issues are the flavour of the political climate in India. In faraway Assam, an exercise
which was supposed to accomplish a solemn accord- ‘Assam Accord’ was
surreptitiously used by the BJP for ulterior political motives. Thanks to the
people of Assam, the state by itself did not slip into communal chaos, even as
the BJP used its full media might in Delhi to whip up passions. What was
supposed to be a Citizen vs Illegal migrant issue was turned into a Hindu vs
Muslim issue and was used by the ruling Govt to target the minorities of Assam.
It is an undeniable fact that even though Assam there are fissures between Assamese
people and Bengali (or Hindi) speaking people, those tensions have been limited
to a language/cultural issues. People of Assam did not have a Hindu-Muslim
issue, to put it bluntly. But exploiting societal fissures to win votes lies at
the core of BJP’s ideology. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
BJP- the double headed snake was precisely vying for that blood. ‘Double headed’
because contrary to the tall claims of BJP President maliciously pinning the
blame on the Congress for ‘encouraging the stay of illegal Bangladeshis’ (sic);
Facts show that between 2005 to 2013, Congress-UPA deported 49 times more
illegal Bangladeshis to Bangladesh, than Modi Govt. For the record,
Congress-UPA deported 88,792 illegal Bangladeshi migrants, while Modi Govt
(till 2017) deported only 1822 of them. Moreover, Indian citizenship, according
to India’s Constitution is provided by the ‘birth’ and not merely by ‘ancestral
lineage’ as is being espoused by the BJP- so the question of having an NRC to
weed out Indian citizens by birth with foreign lineage, across the country does
not arise. Execution of NRC was shoddy and the blame for its mal-implementation
lies squarely with the BJP. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Talking
about nonperformance, two large of constituencies of the Indian electorate are
particularly displeased and distressed by the present regime – Youth and
Farmers. Lofty promises of creating 2 Cr jobs every year made by Narendra Modi
has yielded no results. In the age of the millennials, the PM is telling us we
don’t have data to measure how many jobs India created. It is not as if that
the data was not collected in the previous regimes. Labour Bureau Survey is the
most authentic government data on jobs. But Modi Govt. has failed to release
the same for Oct-Dec 2017. Modi’s tall jargon and unscientific methods to
somehow count and claim the number of jobs infact act a rubbing salts on the
wounds of an already disappointed youth. EPFO, MUDRA loans and even anecdotal
evidence is being sighted by the BJP to fool the people of India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">EPFO
data cannot be a measure of job creation because according to statutory
requirements, when an organization has 20 or more employees it comes under
EPFO’s ambit. So, if a firm has 19 employees and it adds one more to its
payroll, then all 20 will have to be registered under EPFO. This gives a false
picture that 20 jobs were created instead of just one. As explained by many
economists – one MUDRA loan cannot be counted as one Job, because the average
size of MUDRA loans disbursed just Rs 47,268. In this paltry amount, no
sustainable job can be created. Not even a proper Pakora stall or a Paan shop
can be opened in this amount of money! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Millennials
are also being continuously monitored by this regime. The Orwellian maxim of ‘Big
Brother is Watching You’ is ubiquitously on display under this government. In
the garb of AADHAAR leakages, ‘Social Media Communication Hub’ and accessing sensitive
data through NaMo App- the Modi Govt is truly working like the ‘Ministry of
Truth’ that violates and curbs our Right to Privacy. Additionally, youth are
being told ‘what to wear’, what to eat’, what to watch’ and ‘what to do’.
Banning of Art and Censorship has reached monstrous proportions. Couple all
this with numerous agitations and conspiratorial campus unrest that have taken
place in virtually every University of India, has further vitiated the space
for dissent and has led to suppression and oppression of India’s youth. ‘Beti
Bachao’ has only been relegated to sloganeering and advertisements. Only 5
paisa is being spend on a girl child- Yes- That is the budget of Modi Govt,
this year, on ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’. We have seen how many horrific and
gruesome incidents have taken place in home shelters in BJP ruled states and
how BJP men were involved in Naliya, Kathua and Unnao. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Farmers
are definitely very angry. They were promised ‘Cost +50%’ as MSP. They are
still being promised smooth supply chain from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘beej’</i> to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">‘bazaar’</i>- But
nothing has been delivered to them. On top of that, for the first time in
history, Agriculture is being taxed through the GST. Modi Govt attempted to
disguise the MSP announcement of 4th July, 2018 as an ‘Electoral Lollipop’ for
credit seeking and duping the farmers. But that also was too little too late.
For example- MSP of Paddy according to Cost +50% should be Rs 2340 per quintal,
but Modi Govt has only provided Rs 1750 per quintal i.e Rs 590 per quintal less
than Modi Govt's promise. Similarly, the MSP of Jowar according to Cost +50%
should be Rs 3275 per quintal, but Modi Govt has only provided Rs 2430 per
quintal i.e Rs 845 per quintal less than Modi Govt's promise and the MSP of
Moong according to Cost +50% should be Rs 9241 per quintal, but Modi Govt has
only provided Rs 6975 per quintal i.e Rs 2266 per quintal less than Modi Govt's
promise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
biggest disservice that the BJP could have done to this country is to
completely decimate its economic foundations. There is no exaggeration in this
assertion. The foundations of India’s economy were embedded in its thousands of
small and medium businesses and the unorganized sector. Both received a severe
blow because of the mindless decision of Demonetisation. No matter how many
idiotic reasons the Modi Govt presents and no matter how many goalposts it
change- fact is that Demonetisation virtually demolished the structures of a
thriving economy and couldn’t achieve any of its stated purposes. Even this
freshly propped goalpost of increasing the tax base is a white lie. There are
two important facts that cut through this fog. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, the direct taxes grew by 151% over UPA
I tenure and by 68% during UPA II tenure, but have only grown by 43% so far
during the Modi Government's tenure. Second, had the BJP matched the UPA II
growth rates in direct tax collections for last four years, direct tax collection
would have crossed more than 10.5 lakh crore. But they failed at it miserably
and still take pride in achieving net collection of around 9.5 lakh crore. All
the other goalposts to enact Demonetisation have been successfully demolished
in the past. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
flawed implementation of the GST, unending midnight knocking at the doors of
small-medium businesses which is called ‘Tax Terrorism’ in economic parlance
further assaulted the economy. Bank Loot Scams have become a norm and NPA’s are
soaring by the day. The escape of Vijay Mallya, Lalit Modi, Nirav Modi, Mehul
Choksi, Jatin Mehta and many others could not have happened without the active
connivance of the Modi Government. Banking sector is in peril and people have
lost faith in Banks. Investment is low and exports are plunging. Rupee is
trading at its historic worse and Modi Govt has earned 11 Lakh Cr in taxes in
the past four years alone due to central taxes on Petrol and Diesel. There is
no respite from Price Rise and Current Account Deficit is rising. Forget 100
SMART Cities, no tangible investment in infrastructure is taking place and
Stalled Projects are rising by the month. This is how the BJP is banishing our
economy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Economy
might be dead. But emotive issues are left. That is the opium for BJP’s
survival. If those people who look at the previously stated ‘silver lining’ of ‘religion’
in this dark cloud- open their eyes and minds. India would be a better place in
2019. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-72880039049786366032018-06-25T06:46:00.001-07:002018-06-26T01:15:34.852-07:00Emergency: India has moved on, but the BJP is stuck with it. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lengthy Disclaimer:<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> The purpose of this piece is not to either
justify the Emergency or to defend it. The purpose is not to attack its ‘purpose’.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The purpose is placing the facts leading
to the Emergency in the right context. The purpose is to tell the young
students of Indian politics that we have to see the background in which such a
measure was taken. Certain events in history have wide ranging repercussions,
but as time goes, we also need to move on instead of earning cheap political
brownie points which the BJP-RSS are indulging into. <o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /></i></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
do not want any acknowledgement for this piece, even from my Liberal friends,
because I know nobody, including me can justify the excesses of the Emergency.
I only attempt to bring in some unread facts in public domain. For this, I have
taken the liberty to refer many books on the same topic written by people who
were actually in the midst of it. All the views expressed by me here are my
personal views and does not reflect the views of any political organization. <o:p></o:p></span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 18pt; text-align: justify;">Fourty-three
long years shall complete, since the declaration of Emergency in India. For
those like me who are born in the late 80’s- Emergency had very little
importance because we were born, after the death of India’s greatest Prime
Minister (in my opinion, everyone is entitled to theirs) was assassinated.
Being a student of Indian politics, I often have had debates (both online and
offline) on the Emergency. Majority of the arguments against it, either come from
the people who have a diametrically opposite ideology and political philosophy
than mine, the rest come from people who have not dug deeper into the reasons
of imposition of Emergency and are only indoctrinated by superficial trappings.
Infact many of my Congress contemporaries too; are more often than not
uncomfortable in delving or discussing about Emergency.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We
are in 2018 now. But every year, the BJP devoid of any core developmental
issues tries to reignite a malicious politically driven propaganda by panning
Emergency and raking up a discourse, in which it gets significant support from
the most liberal section of the media as well. I would not blame the media-
because they were one of the casualties of the Emergency. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Yes,
for the Congress party too- Excesses of Emergency were definitely a chapter for
which it has publically apologized and which it does not want to touch at all.
When provoked, every June; by the BJP – the Congress has little to offer except
its reiteration that it had already apologized and that Indira Gandhi herself
had accepted that it was a mistake, following it up by calling General
Elections in 1977, where she faced the wrath of the electorate. They also
remind the narrative creators that- Indira Gandhi later came back with a
thumping majority, after the Janata party- Janasangh Government collapsed under
its own contradictions and people again reposed faith in Indira Gandhi. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
are a lot of deeper factors and some immediate factors which led Indira Gandhi Government
to take such a drastic step. Before coming to that, let me also make it clear
that Invocation of Emergency is a Constitutional provision which is explicitly
covered in Article 352 of the Indian Constitution. So, one may have their
reasons to oppose the Emergency and its excesses- but it has Constitution
validity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>So
how the Emergency did came about? There are layers and layers of factors.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Disobedience of
law in India has always been given a political colour, and rightly so. Since
the Independence was won by Gandhian means of Non-cooperation, Civil
Disobedience and Satyagraha. And we can still see hues and shades of it all
across India even now. Dissent in a Democracy is one of the most powerful tools
to keep it intact. But various organizations have time and again taken the law
in their own hand to serve their narrow vested interests and disobeyed and disregarded
the state, thereby trampling upon its powers and enfeebling it. Before 1947, the protagonists of the National
Movement were fighting a Foreign Power. Weakening the state by unlawful means
was at the core of their struggle; this was perfectly legitimate because a
foreign power is ruling you for 200 years. But post-Independence, these tactics
of blackmailing the state by hartals, strikes and even armed rebellion was
still regarded as perfectly legitimate, particularly by those who want to usurp
power through unconstitutional means. The opposition in the 70’s was determined
to usurp power and when it tasted its first success in dislodging a
Constitutionally elected Government in Gujarat- they had smelt blood and were
hell-bent to replicate that modus operandi throughout the country. Economic
distress and Inflation of the people, ravaged by successive wars also played a
significant amount of part, as also some big mistakes by the Congress party in
the state that further precipitated the situation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">II.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In 1972 India
faced an extreme drought. In Gujarat, the situation became worse, followed by a
poor kharif crop, thereby resulting in sharp increase in prices of the staple
wheat, jowar, bajra and essential commodities. Sensing an opportunity for
political gains by exploiting genuine hardship, opposition parties particularly
the Congress (o) and Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), CPI(M), SP cynically organized ‘Nav Nirman Samiti’ of
students. In December 1973, students of L D College of Engineering in Ahmedabad
went on a strike to protest against a hike in school fees and mess charges. A month later, students of Gujarat University
erupted in protest, demanding the dismissal of the state Government. How can
student organizations demand dismissal of an elected state Government having a
majority of 140 out of 168, is beyond imagination! They cannot do it without
political patronage. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As the disturbances
continued unabated, the Government led by Chimanbhai Patel (who had corruption
charges against him too) resigned and President’s rule was imposed on 9
February 1974, but Assembly was not dissolved. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Now Jayaprakash Narayan
(JP) got into the picture, by visiting Ahmedabad two days after the imposition
of President’s rule. He complimented the students and actively encouraged them
to continue the stir, leading to atleast 95 deaths in the coming days and 933
innocent people getting injured, besides loss of public property. The motive
was to create anarchy and disturb the wheels of law by taking law into their
own hands. Opposition parties were determined to get the house dissolved,
especially because they were miserably thrashed in the state elections in UP
and Odisha in February. They needed to retrieve lost ground in Gujarat, where
they felt their electoral chances were better. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Later, Morarji Desai
undertook an indefinite fast, starting from 11 March, thereby forcing the
Centre to dissolve the Assembly on March 15. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">III.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With the success
of the ‘Nav Nirman Movement’, the opposition had tasted blood. It became a
symbol for similar agitations across India in several states. Nobody shed a
tear for the demise of rule of law and the ‘murder of democracy’ by usurping
power through unconstitutional means. And JP was particularly enthused by these
happenings. Never a realist, always a believer in grand gestures of life, ‘the
underground revolutionary’, JP gave a call of ‘Sampurna Kranti’ in Bihar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Such a call by any
other leader would have easily been dismissed in the Indian political realm.
But since JP had this moral, almost Gandhian aura of not accepting Pandit Nehru’s
offer for a Cabinet post, after Independence, his call for ‘Total Revolution’
provided a degree of moral credibility resulting in coming together of
ideologically opposite political entities like the Left, Right and the
Socialists because they found this quick method to usurp power, through this
short cut, a much better one. Using extra-Constitutional advocacy, they sought
to replicate ‘Nav Nirman Movement’ though- student bodies, Sangharsh Samitis of
Dalits and Adivasis and particularly the labour unions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">IV.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In Bihar, when
the elected Government almost acceded to the students’ demands, the opposition
still pressed for newer demands and dissolution of Assembly. Well sequenced
calls of bandhs were organized unleashing widespread violence and disruption.
Notwithstanding the violence associated with the bandh, JP gave a call for a
gherao of the Assembly and residence of MLA’s, leading himself a procession to
the secretariat. But Government did not relent. JP called a conference of opposition
parties and by December, Jantata Sarkars and Janata Adalats in villages as
organs of parallel governance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In fact, On 26 January
1975, rival Republic Day celebrations were held at different places in Bihar.
Would any democratically elected Government allow that, is a question which can
be left open to the ‘Constitutionalists’ who oppose the basic principle of
Emergency! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Inaugurating an all –India
youth conference at Allahabad in June 1974, he said ‘though he himself would
not take part in any armed rebellion, he would not restrain revolutionaries
from to the gun’ (Times of India | 22 June, 1974). He also said, ‘he had never
taken up arms against the state, nor did he want violence, but if the people
wanted it from him, he would do that at an appropriate time’ (UNI report | 31
August 1974) It is apparent that, JP had very little faith in gradual reforms
which were taking place under the Indira Gandhi Government. We can infer that
policies like Green Revolution which made India self-sufficient in food grains,
or the Nationalization of Banks- which increased India’s Saving Rate from 12%
(1969) to 20% of the GDP (1980) did not cut much ice with the opposition whose
one point agenda was ‘Indira Hatao’! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The PMO made attempts
to form a consensus with JP. But JP did not respond, nor did he spell out any
concrete manner how he would battle against rising prices or eliminate
corruption. He took no note of Government’s package which later brought down
inflation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">V.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even Atal Bihari
Vajpayee, who was an accomplished Parliamentarian, wrote in a paper which he
read at the Bharatiya Jana Sangh’s Conference in Hyderabad in September 1974. –
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“The established
leadership has been using Parliamentary method only as a cover for protecting
their evil designs. (sic). The response cannot be confined to the Parliamentary
level. … This was has to be fought in the streets… and in all sensitive power
centres of the establishment’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Thus the opposition was
fighting the battle to attain power only on ‘rhetoric’ and slogans like ‘communitarian
society’ and ‘party less democracy’ with no vision or alternative policy
roadmap for the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">VI.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another event
which defined the precipitation of Emergency was the Railway Strikes of
1973-74. Apart from the All India Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF) affiliated to
the Socialist Party and the National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR)
dominated by the Congress- around 200 big/small separate unions of different
categories of railway personnel had cropped up through the efforts of CPI, CPM
and the Jan Sangh. The competition of influence was intense. The Government in
one such strike surrendered to All India Loco Running Association in August
1973, which gave an impetus to fresh demands from Sangh-Left backed Unions as
they tasted their first success. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Peter Alvares, the moderate
leader of the AIRF was replaced by George Fernandes in 1973. Before taking over
the leadership, George Fernandes (India’s future Defence Minister) declared
openly that ‘he could organize a strike that would bring down the Indira Gandhi
Government at any time by paralyzing railway transport to a dead stop’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In a speech meant to
mobilize railway men for strike he said <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Realize the strength
which you possess. Seven days strike of the Indian Railways- every thermal
station of the country would close down. A ten day strike of the Indian
Railways- every steel mill in India would close down and the industries of the
country would come to a halt for the next 12 months. If once the steel mill
furnace is switched off- it takes nine months to refire. A fifteen day strike
in Indian Railways- the country would starve” (The Hindu | 30 March 1974) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The opposition’s main
aim was to wreck the economy and paralyse the administration. This is why they
pitched their demands so high and displayed little interest in negotiation of
their demands. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It was clear to the Government
that the strike was politically motivated and was planned to paralyze the country.
With its back to the wall, the Government had to defend the state and assert
its right to govern. Indira Gandhi’s Government came down heavily on the
protesters. Thousands of employees were arrested and their families were driven
out of their quarters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">VII.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There were other
important factors for the proclamation of the Emergency. There were some
external factors too. The US showered praise on JP and his role in fighting the
Indira Gandhi Government in 1974. The Nixon administration wanted to punish her
defiance to the US in 1971 and for conducting India’s first Nuclear Test later.
The hectic activity of Peter Burleigh, a US consular officer who was constantly
in touch with the agitators was proof of the meddling of foreign powers.
Intelligence reports of how Nixon’s administration wanted to overthrow Bangabandhu
Mujib’s Government in Bangladesh added to more suspicion. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In an interview with
journalist Jonathan Dimbleby in 1978, when Gandhi was asked the precise nature
of the danger to Indian security that drove her to declare a state of emergency,
she promptly replied, “it was obvious, isn’t it? The whole subcontinent had
been destabilized.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">VIII.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> The
disqualification of Indira Gandhi in the Rae Bareli election through the High
Court Judgement of June 12, 1975 came as last straw and precipitated the
Emergency. On June 24, the Supreme Court put a conditional stay on the High
Court order: Gandhi could attend Parliament, but would not be allowed to vote
unless the court pronounced on her appeal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">IX.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The opposition
wasted no time in mounting a full-fledged campaign against Indira Gandhi
Government. They planned demonstrations outside PM’s residence, gherao of industrialists
and businessmen supporting the Prime Minister, gate meetings outside mills,
lunch-hour meetings of Central Government employees etc. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Jan Morcha- a motley
group of 10 parties, with Morarjee Desai as Chairman was formed. In a rally in
Ramlila Grounds, he asked the army, the police and the Government servants not
to obey orders and challenged the Government to try him of treason. He even said
encouraged the military to plan a coup and gherao the PM’s residence. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">X.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A day after the
Supreme Court judgment, an ordinance was drafted declaring a state of internal
emergency and the President signed on it immediately. In her letter to the
President requesting the declaration of Emergency, Gandhi wrote, “Information
has reached us that indicate imminent danger to the security of India.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Early next morning,
Indira Gandhi announced the declaration of National Emergency. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It is no secret that
they were fears of a military coup to overturn a democratically elected Government
in India had forced the PM to take this extreme step which, technically was Constitutionally
valid. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It is no secret that the
opposition called upon the military, police and government employees to flout
“illegal” orders. They urged students to walk out of classes, taxpayers to
refuse to pay taxes and factory workers to strike. They also advocated that the
Information Minister should be barricaded for allowing All-India Radio to “lie”
for the Prime Minister.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>There are many excesses
during the Emergency which nobody is condoning</b>. Some were real, some were
highly exaggerated. Similar conditions or even worse conditions were created
during the Morarjee Desai Government too. But then it did not have a legal, Constitutional
and Parliamentary sanction of the Emergency. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Coming back to 2018, Forty-three long years have passed since
Emergency was declared. UPA Chairperson, Sonia Gandhi in an interview already
said that her mother-in-law, Indira Gandhi had regretted it. Congress party has
apologized for it, time and again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">But we do not know, why
the BJP, is hell bent to invoke it every year. Is it because the present Modi
Government has nothing to show? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>India has moved on, but
the BJP is stuck with the Emergency. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-7314727708411057372018-05-31T12:03:00.000-07:002018-05-31T12:04:03.660-07:00Hands that work together- A narrative for the Opposition Coalition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgid4EDRCAmJO22gcYH9h7sCWkNTc8EAof6YYJKXQX4bNT1BqFPq00ktt5yxT7H4emOq5JZ2WZ_-hOVu8U3l3YdzgMEtANiN28yABudGVquPXbpUye0KFZw5LvOdMb40ai61X1mYFelY/s1600/Opposition+Unity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="1024" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgid4EDRCAmJO22gcYH9h7sCWkNTc8EAof6YYJKXQX4bNT1BqFPq00ktt5yxT7H4emOq5JZ2WZ_-hOVu8U3l3YdzgMEtANiN28yABudGVquPXbpUye0KFZw5LvOdMb40ai61X1mYFelY/s640/Opposition+Unity.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Next
summers, India will see a New Government at the Centre. It will either chose a
monolithic single party Government and reelect an idea that destroys its
civilizational values and Constitution or it will elect a motley group of
regional parties led by a National party with conflicting ideologies and
aspirations that may not be able to provide a masochistic</span>, <o:p></o:p><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 20pt;">authoritarian
and theocratic leadership but will definitely provide a way out of the
conundrum that India is being pushed into. It is a difficult choice for the
voter.</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
first time voter which is mesmerized and easily won over by the use of ‘soft
power’, aggressive propaganda, emotive ideas and tall promises hasn’t really
witnessed<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>past coalition Governments in
India, and will have an inherent tendency to go for a ‘Single Party rule’. On
the other hand, mature voters who understand what ‘Freedom’ in its true sense
means for a country like India may opt for the ‘coalition’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Personally,
I am all for a strong single National party leadership at the Centre, but in
the present circumstances, that option is closed for liberals like me because,
I do not want my country to disintegrate through bigotry, hatred and narrow
mindedness. A lesser known fact that we tend to forget is that coalition
Governments have delivered in the past. We tend to forget that the coalition
Government under Dr Manmohan Singh lifted 14 crore people out of poverty and
provided the best growth rate ever possible in modern India. We also tend to
forget that, it was a minority Government of P V Narasimha Rao that banished
the past practices of ‘License Raj’ and undertook the biggest economic reforms
that India witnessed in the past century. Yes, some coalition Governments have
failed too, but those were the 70’s. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Those
political commentators who create this false equivalence between Indira Gandhi
and present day Narendra Modi are living in a fool’s paradise. The Indira
Gandhi Government was 11 years old, when due to a variety of socio-political
movements the most flawed coalition of India – Janata Party led by Morarji
Desai was installed and it crumbled with its own contradictions. On the
contrary, Narendra Modi is only a 4 year Prime Minister. His series of self-goals
like Demonetisation and Flawed GST, along with widespread mal-governance, cronyism,
covered with a sugary outer shell of thousands of crores of propaganda cannot
be compared to sound economic and historic measures of Indira Gandhi like the
Nationalization of Banks, Ending Privy Purses or the 1971 War. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
object of this piece was not to make any comparisons between the two, but this
has to be strongly underlined and stated. They are simply incomparable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">During
the Plenary Session of the Indian National Congress, its political resolution
mentions a very important dimension that might change the face of Indian
politics in 2019.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">“Congress will adopt a pragmatic
approach for co-operation with all like-minded Parties and evolve a common
workable program to defeat the BJP-RSS in the 2019 elections”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">The
Karnataka elections happened just after the Congress’ 84<sup>th</sup> Plenary
Session. And the Congress did show a great <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>‘pragmatic
approach’</u></b> and immense flexibility to work with <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>‘like-minded’ </u></b>JD(S). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">The
recent bye-poll results are a copy book illustration of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>‘pragmatic approach’ </u></b>adopted by
the Congress party under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. Wherever the Congress
needed to step back and provide a larger role to the regional <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>‘like-minded’ </u></b>parties- it conveniently
did. Wherever the Congress thought, it should pitch in- it surely did! Politics
is all about pragmatism and no better than the Congress party knows this. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">In
the same Plenary Session, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, elaborated about the
relationship between the People of India and the Congress party. He said- <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">“India expects much more from the
Congress because it holds us, the Congress party on higher standard than any
other organisation…” <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Yes,
the Congress party is extremely mindful of the fact that people of India will
not let our Constitution be sacrificed at the mercy of the RSS-BJP. If the
Congress does not use each and every tool left to its disposal to save the
ideas, ideals and institutions that our forefathers so painstakingly built and
nurtured, it will be failing in its Constitutional duty. Congress will fail the
people of India, if it does not give an equal fight to the divisive forces of
RSS-BJP. It will fail India, if it does not bring in the ‘like -minded’
regional parties on board to ensure that the coalition provides maximum damage
to the theocracy of the BJP. It will fail if it does not provide an alternative
agenda of Governance and Development which is Liberal, Progressive and
Inclusive. It will fail if lets India plunge into the darkness of economic
mismanagement. It will fail India if it does not protect its Farmers from
distress, its Weaker Sections from persecution and it’s Working Class from
exploitation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Kairana
can be a template- but it is mainly an electoral template. Panning Narendra
Modi cannot be idea. Congress cannot be accused of “Modi Vs All” and ‘Anti-Modi-
plank’ alone cannot be an idea that should attract the voters. There has to be
a positive idea. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Congress
is the only force which can also provide an ideological template- A definitive narrative.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Flashback
2004: The UPA and the Left Parties had a ‘Common Minimum Programme’ which was almost
entirely implemented from 2004-09. Congress needs to provide a common
ideological template to this coalition. The coalition should have something to ‘propagate’.
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Leaders don’t win elections—the
battle of ideas is what matters<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">So
what are the broad ideas which the coalition can find a common ground on and
built its campaign around?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Let me attempt some broad ones- <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Preserving
social harmony and fighting fundamentalism of all hues and shades<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Economic
growth - creating jobs- realistic, doable, workable ideas for job creation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Implementation
of the Swaminathan Committee for Farmers in letter and in spirit so that they
get their fare prices and farm distress is alleviated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Education
and Healthcare policy reforms- it’s a fairly non-controversial, non-debatable
subject and can easily be implemented. The BJP in the past 4 years, has failed
our Education system. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Women
Empowerment- political, economic, social & legal. Tangible solutions to
enhance gender equality. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Protecting
Institutions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Providing
space to regional aspirations within the Indian Union. More say of states in
economic policy making. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Judicial Reforms – reducing the pendency of
the cases. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Welfare
of the Weaker Sections- SC, ST, OBC and Minorities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Relaunching
the Sub Plans that the BJP abolished.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Strengthening
the SC-SC Act <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Enhancing
scholarships and welfare measures. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fast tracking Modernisation of Our Defence
Forces- the BJP has totally neglected our External and Internal Security. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">11.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Transparency-
RTI to be strengthened, Lokpal, Whistleblowers Bill. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">12.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Protecting
Our Environment. Saving our rivers, coastal areas, wildlife, air and forests. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">These are the
12 suggestive broad ideas that should be the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Magna Carta</i></b> of the coalition.
There can be several more additions, but this can be a start. These are all
non-controversial ideas and there cannot be any point of contention amongst the
regional parties on these 12 ideas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 20.0pt;">Now it is the
Congress and the coalition to decide. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br /></div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-14154091982576256742018-05-20T08:43:00.001-07:002018-05-20T08:43:14.226-07:00How BJP is ensuring that India’s Democracy becomes more Superficial <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSb2cKPz3AokVT-sqLbwvOSk544PpUMnXQseX88hLFL0Y8lQ-_WcHsHYK3Qjq_99h4B8T_LZpXhYhshzSmVyNypqCpUv47qtlglrtiA2w7t38jkjE3CVgWCoo9FLRxf_KEpMSpNSMtuM/s1600/Narendra-Modi3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="875" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSb2cKPz3AokVT-sqLbwvOSk544PpUMnXQseX88hLFL0Y8lQ-_WcHsHYK3Qjq_99h4B8T_LZpXhYhshzSmVyNypqCpUv47qtlglrtiA2w7t38jkjE3CVgWCoo9FLRxf_KEpMSpNSMtuM/s400/Narendra-Modi3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">India’s politics has truly changed under Narendra
Modi’s BJP. The deepening roots of Democracy are being uprooted and are being smeared
with a pesticide of superficiality. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">As the dust settles on the Karnataka Elections and
the dramatic turns of events thereafter, I wondered ‘What is it in the BJP’s
narrative, which makes them win?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Congress party might have clinched the Karnataka cliffhanger, but there are
deeper questions which need to be answered. Since, I am student of
Communication; the ‘Narrative’ part of it made me introspect. ‘Messaging’- is
the key and how has the BJP been able to convince people through it? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The answer lies in a short personal story. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 16pt;">I may not come from a political family or lineage,
but whenever we had any dining table conversations on current affairs and
politics, my elders always made a point that never believe anything unless you
apply your own mind, especially when you have certain doubts about it. Like all
educated middle class homes, we were also taught to question and debate.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">At our joint family bungalow in Kanpur, near the
driveway, my great grandfather had built a temple with small marble idols; six
of them- A <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shivalinga</i> in black stone,
placed in a square-shaped recessed space, which could facilitate the ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jal Abhishek’</i> on Lord Shiva; whose drain
internally reached to a ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Kele Ka Ped’</i>
(Banana Tree); Marble idols of – Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, Lord Kartikeya,
Lord Hanuman & Nandi. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Nobody can forget that day of 21<sup>st</sup>
September, 1995, when the stone idols of Lord Ganesha started ‘drinking’ milk
out of the spoon. 23 years ago, I was in Class fourth, coming back from school,
I still remember it very clearly, I saw a long queue at our driveway; of people
coming from outside with milk packets and glasses to offer milk to the idols in
our temple and I could not believe my eyes. Lord Ganesha was sipping in the
milk, I was told. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Since childhood, my grandmother inculcated this
habit in us to take care of the idols, I used to clean up the temple, remove
the dried flowers and leaves, daily wash it, ‘make them wear their clothes’ and
even lay the idols to rest by placing a small blanket on them, in winters. I
used to love it this daily ritual. Also, I developed a special bond with the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bhagwan</i>. Praying to the God and carrying
out the rituals were not binding on me and nobody ever forced to do it. Also, I
made it a point to celebrate all festivals of all religions- Be it decorating
the Christmas tree and having a joint family fete with games and goodies to
celebrating Eid with delicacies gifted by our neighbours- Khan Sa’ab’s family;
or be it national occasions such as Gandhi Jayanti or even paying tribute to
Munshi Prem Chand on his Birth Anniversary. Believe it or not, I made it a
point to celebrate everything. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Coming back to ‘Ganesha idol drinking milk- mass
hysteria’, on that very same day, I saw on news, scientists attributing this
phenomenon to capillary action and presenting detail theories of how this
happened. I was satisfied by the explanation and many years later, I found out
that this predominantly urban hysteria was created by the RSS. It was their
first successful attempt on mass rumuor mongering. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The present day socio-political landscape of India
is now much more advanced than this lone experiment. The mediums have changed,
but the modus operandi remains the same. A ‘Whats App University’ has
successfully (sic) been created, photoshop images, using social media,
concocted videos, fake news, using even mass media to plant wrong stories-
everything trick is being used. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Thousands of factories of lies are being now opened
daily to spread rumuors and advance the RSS-BJP agenda. The success of the
‘Ganesha drinking milk’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>experiment have
made them to scale up their agenda, a zillion more times, using sophisticated
means and technology to spread lies. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">However,
one common thread still forms the basis of this propaganda machinery- Emotive
Issues.</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Each and every propaganda has to be ‘Emotion driven-
Nationalistic emotion, Religious Emotion, Political Emotion, Societal
Emotion….’ It has to touch one simple emotive chord and your message is through.
<b>It does not matter, how non-scientific, irrational, superficial, bigoted,
communal, false, fake, denigrated or divisive your ‘emotional theme’ is. It has
to just bring out a ‘Call for action’ in favour of the BJP-RSS. That is
it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Narendra Modi’s politics is precisely based on this-
Emotive issues. Issues that the BJP espouses do not have any deeper effect
tangible effect in our lives, but our highly emotive in nature and are
completely superficial and shallow in nature. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sample some of these gems (sic),
only used in Karnataka are:- <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Congress
politicians (Rahul Gandhi) should learn patriotism through the Mudhol dog
(hounds) of Karnataka”; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jawaharlal
Nehru and V K Krishna Menon mistreated General Thimayya, after the 1948 war
with Pakistan”; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“ Congress party insulted Field Marshal Cariappa”;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“When Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Batukeshwar Dutt, Veer
Savarkar, greats like them were jailed fighting for the country's independence,
did any Congress leader go to meet them?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Referring to a popular vector graphic made by a
young artist from Kerala, PM Modi said “The Congress’ ecosystem doesn’t even
tolerate the magnificent art of Karan Acharya whose Hanuman captured the
imagination of the entire country. Unable to digest its success, the Congress
tried miring it in a controversy. There is no iota of democracy in the minds of
Congress members";<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">§<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“For 15 minutes, without taking a paper in your
hand, can you please talk about the achievements of your government in
Karnataka. You can speak in any language as you please- English, Hindi or your
Mother tongue (Italian)"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">All
these are full of vitriol, no real substance and are plain distortion of
history. But Modi’s admirers’ love it. Many political commentators shower
praises on Modi and call these as ‘intimidating’, ‘high voltage’, ‘passionate’ and
what not. But the simple fact remains that Narendra Modi’s ‘messaging’ is
purely based on the RSS brand of rumour mongering and spreading lies- camouflaged
in an ‘emotive theme’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">BJP
has made India’s political discourse utterly shallow and superbly superficial. If
we carefully check the number of debates that happen on our television
channels, most happen on emotive issues – Hindu-Muslim, India-Pakistan, Caste
division, Communal Conundrums and so on. A deliberate design to feed India’s
young minds into such superficial trappings is being fostered by the RSS-BJP. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Since
attention spans are less, knowledge is trigger driven, books are becoming
increasingly redundant and there is no sense of history left- this phenomenon
is now at its peak. ‘Headlines Management’ is the key and ‘Spins’ attributed to
‘Sources’ fill up the news-cycle! Who cares about issues of women safety, when
you have ‘Triple Talaq Bill’ as the greatest BJP achievement to showcase? * <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">No
wonder, in a letter dated 7<sup>th</sup> December, 1947- India’s First Prime
Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru wrote this about the RSS to his Chief
Ministers:-<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“Some
provincial governments have taken against periodicals for promoting hatred
between communities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Probably the
newspapers of the R.S.S. are more to blame in this matter than any other
newspapers or periodicals outside Pakistan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is amazing how they carry on this communal propaganda in its
extremist form”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“I
have some knowledge of the way the Nazi Movement developed in Germany.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It attracted by its superficial trappings and
strict discipline considerable number of lower middle class young men and women
who are normally not too intelligent and for whom life appeared to offer little
to attract them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And so they drifted
towards the Nazi party because its policy and programme, such as they were,
were simple, negative and did not require an active effort of the mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Nazi party brought Germany to ruin and I have
little doubt that if these tendencies are allowed to spread and increase in
India, they would do enormous injury to India.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No doubt India would survive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
she would be grievously wounded and would take a long time to recover.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Unfortunately, Pandit Nehru’s
prophecy about ‘Superficial Trappings’ is soon coming true in BJP ruled India! <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">*Aside:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Do you know that No BJP Government has ever brought
a single reformative bill when it comes to Women Safety or Rights, ever? All
Women Reforms Laws in this country are brought by the Congress! But no one
cares about that! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-11582798980824633282018-03-04T22:56:00.001-08:002018-03-05T11:48:17.613-08:00Reflections on the Congress’s performance in the North East <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_VhUn9C4RaeyDzl8QKJEFQiKakXydc1oxG0FJdDNFQbn_Vu7fXqRfkZ1yj3aTPlFIclvAePg-KN9IPWLActaKA7tvIfhHqq78FcxuC_HC0-CnS7jDiDoddouHk7vhotYEGxjEv-lY0g/s1600/112.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="383" data-original-width="515" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_VhUn9C4RaeyDzl8QKJEFQiKakXydc1oxG0FJdDNFQbn_Vu7fXqRfkZ1yj3aTPlFIclvAePg-KN9IPWLActaKA7tvIfhHqq78FcxuC_HC0-CnS7jDiDoddouHk7vhotYEGxjEv-lY0g/s400/112.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: The Hindustan Times</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
would start this piece of writing with a disclaimer – that I am an eternal
optimist. It does not however mean that when the Congress party snatches defeat
from the jaws of victory, my heart doesn’t bleed. It does. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Politics
means pragmatism. It requires a ‘matter-of-fact-treatment’. It’s the ability to
know the reality- the writing on the wall. In the recent defeats in the
Northeast, the Congress party very well knew the writing on the wall and the
severe constraints it is facing. It definitely knew that, its political organizations
in the North East desperately required a Central spine. It also knew that the
BJP- RSS is working overtime and dubious methods to usurp power in these states
and it also knew that it is not doing any justice to its local leaders, whatsoever.
The Congress left its leaders in the Northeast to fend for themselves- not
because it wants to, but because it was forced to. It did whatever best it
could do in the current circumstances. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Some
unknown faces of the newly created and refurbished departments in the party belatedly
did camp in Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland, but they were not able to clean up
the rot. Colleagues who I know personally, travelled extensively, tried to pump
in some oxygen in the organization, highlighted some issues to the Centre- even
though it was a small and fresh beginning, yet it was an important one. Had
they not done it, we would have been much below those 21 seats in Meghalaya or
some key state leaders would have deserted us in other states. Yet, the overall
picture one sees is that of apathy and disinterest. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So
what was the prime reason for this apathy? There are multiple reasons. The
first and foremost is the cleanup exercise which is going in the Central unit. The
weeding out of non-performers and the status quoists, enabling a generational
change and revamping of a new organization is the most important task for the
Central leadership as of now. If we do not have an organization, fresh faces
and hardworking leaders- we cannot build a new future. Sometimes you have to
start on a clean slate and that is what happening, in a gradual, albeit
calibrated manner. In an organization which is so entrenched and obsessed with its
past (and rightly so) one needs to balance out all age groups and regions and
representatives. The recently announced groups and sub groups for the AICC
plenary session, give us a peak in this process. More radical decisions need to
be followed and we would certainly see a change post March. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lack
of resources and logistics is the biggest problem the Congress party is facing.
People may mock me for this assessment, but that is the grim reality. It is
unable to furnish even basic campaign materials for local polls like the recent
Uttar Pradesh local body elections, where a former Congress Minister of State
lost mayoral elections. Not every candidate or every elected representative possesses
the means to fight elections, especially in an increasingly competitive
political space where propaganda off all shades and hues and on all platforms
matter a lot. Nowhere, here am I
attempting to find a convenient alibi for the Congress’ defeat in these recent
polls. Yes lack of resources and logistics is only one of the factors. There
are many more. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another
reason is that, some of the leaders responsible for these states have already
given up the fight even before they entered one. Some who did attempt to give
one were the young ones. They were brought in very late in the day in order to
somehow rescue the situation, but their hands were tied because of constant
interference by the older and more senior leaders. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
key to win elections is to have an agenda and to package in a way that it
should appeal to your voters. I have repeatedly underlined this extremely
important issue in my earlier pieces. It is high time that the Congress spelt
its vision for India in the backdrop of the current political scenario. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At
the cost of repeating myself again, I am again quoting from a previous piece
which I had written in <a href="http://rachitseth.in/A-New-Narrative-set-by-the-Congress-can-still-save-India.html">July
2017.</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">‘A solid, implementable narrative
and a new vision to take along those committed liberal voters who still believe
in those ideals on which the edifice our Constitution was laid. Time and again,
I have come to this conclusion that only a positive narrative can resurrect the
Congress. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For starters, we should look at our
own 2014 Manifesto. This 45 page document should be our Magna Carta to attack
and question the BJP. It will give us more credibility because we shall not be
merely criticizing the policies, but also put forth a positive policy solution.
“Had the Congress been in power, there were the 5 steps it would have taken to
solve agrarian distress”. “These are the steps that the Congress party would
have taken to create more jobs”.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The voter connect is only possible
when you gather small constituencies of groups together and target your liberal
supporters. Laziness, complacency and arrogance should be done away with. A
strong ideological resolve is needed so as solidify your support base. We all
know what ails the Congress party, we also have some solutions. No political
party that has a closed system and secretive in nature can function in a
vibrant democracy. We have to open the doors for the converted and to the swing
ones.’ <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Certainly
some heads need to be rolled given the complete disaster which took place in
the North East. Certainly, we should stick to our own Centrist ideology and not
make ideological compromises by aligning with the Left or Non-Centrist parties
and certainly we need a vision for 2019. The clock is ticking and we have very
less time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">All
the views expressed in the article by the author are strictly personal.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
</div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-70716501303007990232018-02-04T22:22:00.002-08:002018-02-04T23:52:51.604-08:00Modi - The Champion of Broken Promises <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h3>
Every year, the President of India outlines the Central Government's policies, programmes and achievements by addressing both houses of the Parliament in the beginning of the year. This speech which is basically approved by the Cabinet is the agenda of the Government for the year. </h3>
<h3>
<br /><b>I examine how the Modi Government's so called achievements and announcements are far from the reality. </b><i><b><br /></b></i></h3>
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<i>
</i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLw78ou8JFOreNvaW9SUmDhGLEE_7af87fWkqf8aOqSInBpv7I6_vIRHbzxDK155U3UnQ32jg7p4gEfpXZbWcyoUiIUH8i4B0tRXy7r9TnxIw7xwLECILqCaCt3xJUp0oE5S-MU0BvqQs/s1600/Modi+Champion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="1189" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLw78ou8JFOreNvaW9SUmDhGLEE_7af87fWkqf8aOqSInBpv7I6_vIRHbzxDK155U3UnQ32jg7p4gEfpXZbWcyoUiIUH8i4B0tRXy7r9TnxIw7xwLECILqCaCt3xJUp0oE5S-MU0BvqQs/s640/Modi+Champion.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>It is our collective responsibility to pay a befitting tribute to Pujya Bapu by making the country Swachh by 2019 when we celebrate the 150thbirth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.</i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We all want our country
clean, and the Congress-UPA had started the process by launching the Nirmal
Bharat Abhiyan in 2012 under the aegis of the Total Sanitation Campaign, but
Modi Government renamed it to Swachh Bharat Mission. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Swachh Bharat Mission aimed at building 12Cr toilets by October 2, 2019- But
almost 3.5 years after it has launched – Only 50% of toilets ie 6.12 Crore toilets
in Rural India<a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><sup><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">[1]</span></sup></b><!--[endif]--></sup></a>
and 37 Lakh toilets in Urban India<a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" title=""><sup><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">[2]</span></sup></b><!--[endif]--></sup></a>
have been built. With just one year left, How will the Govt be able to achieve
its target? <o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
study by the UN Special Rapporteur Leo Heller highlights that only 33% of the
toilets built are sustainably safe, while the rest are barely useable.
Additionally, the lack of proper plumbing to provide clean water and the
removal of waste and excrement makes this a pointless piece of infrastructure
that is fit for only one thing, Modi Ji’s photo ops<a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" title=""><sup><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">[3]</span></sup></b><!--[endif]--></sup></a><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" title=""><sup><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></sup></b></sup></a></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">An
RTI reveals that Swachh Bharat spent a whopping Rs 530 crore on publicity in
three years – but little on grassroots awareness<a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4" title=""><sup><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">[4]</span></sup></b><!--[endif]--></sup></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
this year’s Budget (2018-19) –there is a 7% cut in allocation for the Swachh
Bharat Mission budget from 2017-18’s revised estimates<a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn5" name="_ftnref5" title=""><sup><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">[5]</span></sup></b><!--[endif]--></sup></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div>
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<div>
<!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>‘Pradhan
Mantri Ujjwala Yojana’ has empowered these poor women to enjoy equal rights
with their privileged counterparts thereby addressing a hitherto ignored aspect
of social justice. So far, under this scheme, over 3 crore 30 lakh cooking gas
connections have been provided.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">19
months after the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana was launched, the scheme is
achieving its targets magnificently. It is, however, failing in its objective
of persuading households to stop using firewood and traditional biomass fuels
that have the potential to cause respiratory diseases.<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Under
the scheme, the government provides a subsidy of Rs 1,600 to government-owned
oil manufacturing companies for every free LPG gas connection that they install
in poor rural households without one. This subsidy is intended to cover the
security fee for the cylinder and the fitting charges. The beneficiary has to
buy her own cooking stove. To reduce the burden, the scheme allows
beneficiaries to pay for the stove and the first refill in monthly
installments. However, the cost of all subsequent refills has to be borne by
the beneficiary household. This is where the scheme is failing.<sup> <a href="file:///D:/DOCUMENTS/BUDGET/Suggested%20Pointers%20on%20President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20to%20both%20Houses%20of%20Parliament.docx#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><b><sup><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">[1]</span></sup></b><!--[endif]--></a></sup><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
the number of LPG connections across India has increased by an impressive
16.26% since the scheme was launched, the use of gas cylinders increased by
only 9.83%. This is even lower than the rate recorded in 2014-’15, when the
scheme did not exist<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This
difference between the increase in the number of connections and the sale of
cylinders is a consequence of the fact that many people with new connections
are not buying refilled cylinders after their first one runs out<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
Comptroller and Auditor General’s report notes that in 2015-’16, households
with LPG connections were using an average of 6.27 cylinders in a year. But
after the scheme was launched, the number of cylinders used on average had come
down to 5.6, the data shows<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>My Government has tabled a Bill on Triple Talaq in Parliament.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="background: white; color: #505050;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Indian National Congress has always believed that the issue of ‘Instant Triple
Talaq’ i.e. Talaq-e-biddat is about ‘gender justice’ and ‘gender equity’. INC
has always maintained that anything prejudicial to Muslim Women like instant
triple talaq is inherently unsustainable. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We
were the first political party to hold a press conference welcoming the Supreme
Court’s judgment on ‘Instant Triple Talaq’ as a victory for the rights of
Muslim women.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
fact, it was a Congress leader, </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Salman Khurshid, who was appointed as the
Amicus Curiae to assist the court in arriving at this decision. It was another
Congress leader, </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Manish Tewari, who represented the woman petitioner in
the case.</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Congress will support any and every law abolishing ‘Instant Triple Talaq’ i.e.
Talaq-e-biddat. However any such law much be tested on the touchstone of the
Supreme Court’s decision. Any proposed law must comprehensively protect the
rights of Muslim women who are the victims of this unconstitutional practice.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rights
and Welfare of Women & Children must be protected at any Cost. Legislation
must ensure Safeguarding of Rights of Women to a life of Dignity with adequate
subsistence allowance. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP
and Narendra Modi failed to provide justice to Muslim Women on ‘Instant
Triple Talaq’. It was the Supreme Court which quashed ‘Instant Triple Talaq’ as
‘Illegal’. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lack
of Commitment to the cause of Women on part of BJP is apparent from the failure to pass the
Women Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Some
of the shortcomings of the proposed law are<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. ‘Subsistence Allowance’ neither ‘defined’,
nor the amount ‘quantified’ in the proposed legislation. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. Why should onus of proving ‘Instant Triple
Talaq’ be on ‘Women’? Why can’t this law then envisage a ‘presumption in favour
of the woman’ putting the onus of proof on the ‘husband’ to establish that
‘Instant Triple Talaq’ was not pronounced by him? <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3.
Who would ensure payment of ‘Maintenance’ and/or ‘Subsistence Allowance’ to
women and children if husband is in jail for 3 years?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme. Seeing its
positive results, the scheme has been extended from 161 districts to 640
districts</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For
all the hoopla over "Beti Bachao Beti Padao" (BBBP), the Economic
Survey says that there are still 20 lakh girl children that go missing every
year. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Modi Government’s outlay of “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” Scheme for 161
Districts was just Rs 200 Crore for the year 2017-18. </span><u>Now the allocation has been raised to Rs 280 Crore</u></b> <b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">That means each district under the scheme was provided on an average just Rs
2.3 Crore. How will the ‘Beti’ benefit from this meagre budget? Was it only
meant for advertisements?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Under the
‘Jan Dhan Yojana’, so far, about 31 crore bank accounts have been opened for
the poor</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">24.3
Cr accounts were opened by the previous Congress-UPA Government under the
Financial Inclusion scheme called 'Swabhiman'. All that the Prime Minister and
his Government has done is renamed and carried forward our 'Swabhiman' scheme
as 'Jana Dhana Scheme'.</span></b> <b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
number of Jan Dhan accounts opened under the BJP stands approximately at 12.13
crore.</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
government told Parliament on Feb 3, 2018 that around 50 lakh Jan Dhan accounts
have been closed till December 20, 2017. At least 50% of the accounts being in
Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan.</span></b><br />
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Under the
‘Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana’, about 10 crore loans have been sanctioned so far
and more than Rs. 4 lakh crore worth of loans have been disbursed.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Loans
by MFI’s and Banks is an old scheme
which is existing since the 1990’s and has been rebranded by the BJP as ‘MUDRA’
<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
average size of the Mudra loan is Rs 43,000. This is tokenism and will not
create even one job. More Mudra loans will mean more tokenism, but no
additional jobs. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Around
17 Lakh companies were opened till December 2017, out of those 5.37 Lakh
Companies have been closed till now. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>The highest
priority of my Government is to remove various difficulties faced by farmers
and to raise their standard of living.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My
Government is committed to doubling of farmers’ income by 2022.</span></i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Agriculture
Growth under Modi Govt in past 4 years has been the lowest since Economic
Reform began. It is just 1.9% (from 2014-15 to 2017-18) whereas under Congress
UPA, Agriculture Grow at an average of 4.2%.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
promise of doubling Farm Incomes by 2022 is another Jumla. At this speed of
Growth, the Income of Farmers will be doubled by the year 2052. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
committee that they had recently formed to look into doubling farmers’ incomes
– the Ashok Dalwai committee – had basically said that Rs 6.4 lakh crore
investment is needed for this. But in this year’s Budget, the allocation has
increased by Rs 4,845 crore. So this is a clear-cut indicator that incomes
aren’t going to double anytime soon.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Suddenly,
Shri Modi remembers the Swaminathan Report on Cost +50%MSP. Truth is for crops;
their increase still is lesser than that of UPA. (Refer to attached table)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Besides,
Rs 2000 crore for e-markets and Rs 500 crore for Operation Green (whenever the
Cabinet will approve the schemes) amount to a pittance.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One
needs clarity on whether promise of the MSP at 50% above cost is based on C2,
comprehensive cost, or A2, the paid out cost. If they are talking of 50%
increase over comprehensive cost, that would require, in paddy, an increase of
about 45% in the MSP. Which is far far from truth? If they are talking about
A2, then more than 50% of that is already in place. So then what are they
talking about?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Under
‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’, farmers are being provided affordable and
simple crop insurance services. During 2017, under Rabi & Kharif crops, 5
crore 71 lakh farmers were provided protective coverage under this scheme.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>Reality:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pradhan
Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, projected by the Modi Government as a 'game changer'
scheme for farmers have only beneifitted select private entitities. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Till
April 2017, insurance companies collected a gross premium of Rs 17,185 crore,
against claims of only Rs 6,808 crore, ensuring a profit of almost Rs 10,376
crore. This means, through this, <u>for every season</u> – certain private
entities chosen by the Government profit by a whopping Rs 10000 Cr at the
expense of the farmers!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>My Government
is providing electricity connections to 4 crore poor people under the
"Saubhagya” Yojana.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress-UPA
provided Free Electricity to Poor Households from Day 1- Look at the difference
here. Modi ji's Saubhagya only repackaged! <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaHmou3Ejm2b94VNIyqXSMW3M0qSiu4_I8V2r_f0PDVwv_Vkxhxa-hxGOH-0pDr2CMmcShoU-g1CXN60JPorjAMpJjO3Qe-zPVbkh2tRhKmviK6XRHKQoNqf6RnoM77PIa-fKkJ4CyG4/s1600/BPL+Households.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="846" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaHmou3Ejm2b94VNIyqXSMW3M0qSiu4_I8V2r_f0PDVwv_Vkxhxa-hxGOH-0pDr2CMmcShoU-g1CXN60JPorjAMpJjO3Qe-zPVbkh2tRhKmviK6XRHKQoNqf6RnoM77PIa-fKkJ4CyG4/s400/BPL+Households.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">UPA-2
gave free electricity connections to 39,59,091 more BPL households than the
Modi government did in its first year. That is 521.36% higher. In the second
year, the difference is more stark – 44,44,211 more BPL households</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The UPA government had connected
1,08,280 villages to the grid between 2005-06 and 2013-14, compared to 14,528
villages by the NDA from 2014 to 2017. That means on an average, the UPA
electrified 12,030 villages per year, while the NDA government has electrified
4,842 – less than half the UPA’s average.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>To ensure
availability of two square meals to every poor person, effective enforcement of
National Food Security Act is necessary.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Supreme Court today in July, 2017 had said the National Food Security Act 2013
has not been implemented properly, and it is a "pity" that a
legislation enacted by parliament for citizens' benefit was kept on the
"back-burner" by various states. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Constitution
Amendment Bill to provide Constitutional Status to the National Commission for
Backward Classes.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
ruling BJP could not muster adequate numbers to thwart Opposition designs to a
politically significant Constitutional Amendment bill in the Rajya Sabha in
August 2017 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
lack of numbers forced the government to drop a crucial clause from the bill
granting constitutional status to the National Commission on Backward Classes
(NCBC). The Opposition had moved amendments, which were passed by its 74 votes
against the NDA’s 52. It resulted in an unprecedented situation, as a clause,
for which an amendment is passed by a simple majority, cannot become part of a
Constitution Amendment Bill. It requires a two-third majority of those present
in the House.<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Minimum
Support Price of several forest produce collected by the tribal people has been
increased.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">According
to the recently presented Budget, of the Rs. 100 crore allocated to the
Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), only Rs. 25 crore was spent. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
MSP for MFP scheme was launched in 2013-14. It aimed at improving the financial
condition of forest-dwelling communities living in the country. The importance
of such a scheme can be gauged by the fact that the Planning Commission
accounted MFPs for 20 to 40 per cent of the income of these communities. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While the scheme was started with a sum of Rs.
967.28 crore as Central Government share and Rs. 249.50 crore as the states'
share in 2013, over the years, the funds have continuously dwindled along with
its utilisation. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRfgX9aL8SNiBNhfITaYp9xQcciRulSXU6AC4njhlTxFg0kx0eGrotKXo8ATzXYN1tORZlG8UgrErUiiHyJ3IBc1Q7AZvzJMKLsqfV-7mNeJNJqgeG5B_KSc2KxSx8Fv24k4veUyfCi8/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="893" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRfgX9aL8SNiBNhfITaYp9xQcciRulSXU6AC4njhlTxFg0kx0eGrotKXo8ATzXYN1tORZlG8UgrErUiiHyJ3IBc1Q7AZvzJMKLsqfV-7mNeJNJqgeG5B_KSc2KxSx8Fv24k4veUyfCi8/s640/1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>With a
sensitive approach towards providing housing with availability of
water-electricity-toilet facility to all, my Government is targeting to provide
a house to every poor and homeless household by the year 2022.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Over
the last three and a half years, more than 93 lakh houses have been constructed
by the Government in rural and urban areas.</span></i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">From
2004-2013, the Congress-UPA constructed 224.37 Lakh Houses, which is an average
of almost 25 Lakh Houses per year for Rural poor. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On
the other hand, if we look at the official figures of the Modi Government,
despite changing its name to PM Gramin Awaas Yojana Only 1.7 Lakh houses constructed in the past
three years, which is an average of just about 56,600 houses per year.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Rajiv Awaas Yojana which was conceptualized in 2009, and became a Centrally
Sponsored Scheme only in 2013 provided affordable housing for Urban Poor. In
the last year of UPA (2013-14) – 1.17 Lakh houses sanctioned and completed.
Modi Government changed its name to PM Awaas Yojana (Urban) Modi Government
promised 2 Crore houses till 2022, but could only construct 17 Lakh houses (till
March 2017)- with this speed, it will
take 600 odd years to reach the 2 Crore mark!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>A new
‘National Health Policy’ has been formulated by my Government for providing
better and affordable healthcare facilities to the poor and middle class.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">• Modi Government did not spend a Single
Rupee on Health Insurance (Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana) in 2015-16 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">• For 2016-17, it allocated Rs 1500 Crore
in the Budget for the Scheme but only spent Rs 724 Crore in that year. Rest Rs 776 Crore was
unspent. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">• For 2017-18, Modi Government allocated
Rs 1000 Cr in the Budget for the Scheme, but only spent Rs 471 Crore in that
year. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">• Which means Modi Government has only
spent Rs 1195 Crore in the past 4 years on Health Insurance and this year it
has allocated Rs 2000Cr for the grand “50Cr Beneficiary Scheme?”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">• Media Reports indicate that 21 Crore BPL
beneficiaries out of the 26.97 Crore Beneficiaries did not receive any Health
Insurance, last year. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>My Government is committed to strengthening
and modernising School and Higher Education system in the country.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>Reality:</b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lowest share of Budget for HRD Ministry
since 2014-15- It is 0.23 percentage-point decline over 2017-18<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The recent All India Higher Education
Survey 2016-17 have shown only marginal improvement in enrolment. The country’s
Gross Enrolment Ratio or GER in higher education has registered a marginal
increase of 0.7% from 24.5% in 2015-16 to 25.2% in 2016-17. Despite BJP
boasting its privatisation model higher education enrolment has not seen a
major improvement. India aims to achieve a GER of 30% by 2020. This is much behind
China, which, currently, boasts an enrolment ratio of 43.39%. USA’s GER is
85.8% and Pakistan’s is 9.93%.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Our country
is the youngest among all nations in the world. My Government is implementing
programmes like Start Up India, Stand Up India, Skill India Mission, Mudra
Yojana to provide self-employment to the youth and to enable them to fulfill
their dreams.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
government is wasting our country’s demographic dividend and turning into a
potential demographic disaster. The major flagship schemes have not shown any
results. The youth in India are standing in queues for jobs.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">According
to the ASER report 2017, only 5% of the rural youth only are taking some form
of vocational training. This is ironical considering the BJP’s key promise was
the allocation of Rs. 400 crores for Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness
for Livelihood Promotion programme (SANKALP) to train over 3.5 crore youth.
Besides, Rs. 2000 crore has been promised for Skill Strengthening for
Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE) to improve the quality of Industrial
Training Institutes (ITIs). None of this expenditure has shown any level of
desired results. As of January 2018, data shows 30% of Indians are neither
employed nor are part of any skill training<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Stand-up
India: Same Rhetoric<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Only
48,778 loans have been given to the 2.8 lakh intended beneficiaries as of
December 2017. Out of these beneficiaries the number of ST women borrowers are
just 2,084. Only 6% of banks have given loans to Dalits or Adivasis, and less
than 25% to a woman. RTI reply suggests that between April 5, 2016 and
September 24, 2017, only 6% of the 1.3 lakh bank branches in the country have
provided Stand Up India loans to SC or ST individuals.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>My Government
has increased the minimum wage of workers by more than 40 per cent</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>No increase in allocation of MGNREGA which is a vehicle to create employment in this country for the poor. This year, only 39 days was provided by the Government and rural wages which are supposed to be paid within 15 days, are now pending since 1.5 years.</b></span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>The Economic Survey noted, that Rural wages decelerated just before the kharif season. This was because sowing of seeds has been lower in both kharif and rabi seasons thus reducing the demand for labour.</b></span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-family: times new roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>The most disappointing part of the budget is the cut in the outlays on major schemes for 2018-19. Some important schemes that will get constant or reduced outlays are: MGNREGA, PMAY, National Drinking Water Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission, National Health Mission, Midday Meals Scheme, and Interest Subsidy for Short Term Farm Credit, Northeastern Investment Promotion, Price Stabilisation Fund and Gram Jyoti Yojana. The FM will have much to explain when Parliament debates the Budget next week.</b></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></h3>
</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Railways
remain the main mode of transport even today and that is why investment in
Railways for capacity development and modernization is being enhanced
continuously</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Railways
remains the most neglected Ministry under Modi Govt- BJP has deliberately
diminished the status of Indian Railways <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Railway
Ministry has failed to provide managerial leadership, ‘Safety’, ‘Security’ and
‘Speed’ of Railways is in dire straits!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>My Government
has formulated a new Metro Rail Policy which lays emphasis on ‘last mile
connectivity’. Presently, Metro work is in progress in 11 cities of the country.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Reality:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress-UPA
built Metro Rail in as many as these 12 cities and Cleared in another 6! How
many did BJP Build?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDerKhyVGTciHKKhtenMOIcy1cneKBU1b92egXCG80CeoA4ahysQgvZK53ULj_JLSG5RhFKtkRcmn7rGWsmJw4oaFXuPHHgIHV0tgi4Os3m8SzEYGszZoRLPTi02UZ8bv3VaDHCWS0IA/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="853" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDerKhyVGTciHKKhtenMOIcy1cneKBU1b92egXCG80CeoA4ahysQgvZK53ULj_JLSG5RhFKtkRcmn7rGWsmJw4oaFXuPHHgIHV0tgi4Os3m8SzEYGszZoRLPTi02UZ8bv3VaDHCWS0IA/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Recently, my
Government has approved an ambitious programme for development of highways
namely ‘Bharatmala’. A provision of Rs. 5 lakh 35 thousand crore has been made
for this.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> ‘Bharatmala’ Project stated to bring Rs 5.35
Lakh Crore is completely debt driven with total burden on people of India. Its
breakup is -:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBE56kFd_n-gpLYxy2WdC1U6wHbOkaoeSvt3tWacXHtCNq_AM74KQ7d_NV1EX80nOZil2cEEtqCJut8CEdxic3hJc93QYSlFV6RYWtj3oyAS5VepP_uuW-3vabk1ynP2hxR0NVk5WQs4Y/s1600/3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="130" data-original-width="730" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBE56kFd_n-gpLYxy2WdC1U6wHbOkaoeSvt3tWacXHtCNq_AM74KQ7d_NV1EX80nOZil2cEEtqCJut8CEdxic3hJc93QYSlFV6RYWtj3oyAS5VepP_uuW-3vabk1ynP2hxR0NVk5WQs4Y/s640/3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>In Mizoram, a
Hydro Electric Power Project constructed at a cost of Rs. 913 crore has been
dedicated to the nation recently.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Shillong
–Tura road project was dedicated to the people last year in December. This road
will improve connectivity in the entire North-East region.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Last
year, the longest river-bridge of the country- Dhola-Sadiyaa- was also
dedicated to the nation. This bridge has reduced distance between Assam and Arunachal
Pradesh by 165 kilometers.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">All
these projects were started by Congress-UPA, and only inaugurated by Shri Modi. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Terrorist
violence in the interiors of Jammu & Kashmir is directly related to
cross-border infiltration. With better coordination, our Army, Para-Military
Forces and Jammu-Kashmir Police are giving a befitting response to the
perpetrators.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9pt;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">WESTERN
BORDER<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9pt;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Since May 26, 2014, during Modi Government- In the last 44 months,
nearly 340 personnel of our brave security forces have been martyred and 195 civilians
have died in Jammu and Kashmir alone. Ceasefire Violations are at a all time high. 160 Ceasefire Violations since the beginning of the year. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ceasefire Violations from across the border in the past 44 months of
the Modi Government has increased by an alarming 500%, when we compare it by
the last 44 months of the Congress-UPA Government.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There have been 134 reported Ceasefire Violations along the IB and
LOC by Pakistan in in January alone. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">IAF’s Fighter Fleet has fallen to a record low of 32 Squadrons
against the Air Force demand of 45 Squadrons i.e lowest in last 10 years. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></i><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Armed Forces have shortage of officers- Army has a gap of 7,679
officers is 15.38% of the required number. The Navy has a gap of 1,434 or
12.12% officers (compared to the authorized strength). While the Air Force has
a significant shortage of airmen.</span></b> <b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This gap of 15,5357 airmen amounts to 10.77% of
the required number. </span></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(Defence Minister's Statement
in Lok Sabha | 27 December, 2017)</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>The policy
related to Strategic Partnership in Defence Manufacturing sector has also been
given a final shape. This will encourage maximum participation of private
sector in the manufacture of major defence platforms and equipment and would
provide a fillip to employment generation.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Reality:</b></b></div>
<b>
</b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In this Budget, Defence Sector gets 1.58% of the
GDP, <u>Lowest allocation since 1962. <o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><u><br /></u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Due to the
successful diplomatic efforts of my Government, there has been a new found
respect for India.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
have been multiple occasions where this BJP Government has failed to secure
India’s National Interests, viz-a-viz China:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. China vetoes declaration of Masood Azhar as
an ‘international terrorist’ under Pak’s pressure<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. China blocks India’s membership of ‘Nuclear
Suppliers Group’ asking for parity with rogue Pakistan.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3. China opposes India’s membership of UN
Security Council.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4. On Dec 19, 2016; Russia extended support to
China-Pak Economic Corridor & expressed intent to connect it with Eurasian
Economic Union.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5. China – Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
worth $54 billion built through PoK/Balochistan connecting Gwadar Port in
Arabian Sea to China with base for Chinese submarines- Does it not compromise
India’s Sovereign right over POK & affect our strategic interests in the
Arabian Sea with Chinese Naval Base?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6.
The Ministry of External Affair’s vacuous statement recently, does not say a
word about the alleged construction of military infrastructure by Chinese Army
as depicted in satellite imagery produced in the recent media reports. The
Chinese Foreign Ministry’s reported justification of the construction of
infrastructure and the reported reaction by the MEA that “India is maintaining
constant vigil and using established mechanisms” is only adding to the confusion.
The Modi Government cannot have multiple stands on the Chinese misadventure. It
will only harm India’s Interests. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress
Government had approved raising of ‘Mountain Strike Corps’ along the China
border with 90,274 additional soldiers at a cost of Rs 64,678. Under Modi
Government, it still lies in the lurch. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">7.
Chinese nuclear and conventional submarines are regularly making forays into
Indian Ocean and Strategic Experts have continuously pointed out the ‘String of
Pearls’ which China is attempting in the Indian Ocean by leveraging its
influence on India’s neighbours like Sri Lanka Maldives, Bangladesh etc. by
building strategic bases at Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Chittagong port in
Bangladesh besides extensive maritime facilities in Maldives. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>India’s
growth rate remained impressive despite global economic slow-down. During the
first quarter of 2016-17</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Modi Govt fails
to achieve its Fiscal Deficit target, this year. They had set a Fiscal Deficit
Target of 3.2% but they have breached it and this year’s Fiscal Target is said
to be 3.5%- which is worrying. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">GDP Growth is 4
Year low – despite new method of calculation <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Manufacturing
Growth is 3 Month low in January (Today’s Papers)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Industrial GVA
growth has declined from 9.8 per cent in 2015-16 to 6.8 per cent in 2016-17 to
2.7 per cent in 2017-18.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Budget 2017-18 predicted a GDP Growth of 7.5% for
2017-18. FM has turned out to be more than a full percentage point off the
mark!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Inflation is 15 month low. Food inflation has gone
up to 5% overall in December 2017 from just 2% in December 2016.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>With a view
to resolving the problems of citizens, my Government has accorded priority to
simplification of procedures. As a result of these efforts of my Government,
India has moved up from 142nd to 100th rank in the Ease of Doing Business ranking
of the World Bank.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>Reality:</b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Giving credence to the
theory that the World Bank's popular ease of doing business (EODB) ranking is
not credible and accurate, its chief economist Paul Romer has announced to
recalculate the national rankings of business competitiveness going back to at
least four years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.business-standard.com/article/international/will-india-s-rank-change-wb-to-recalculate-ease-of-doing-business-rankings-118011400061_1.html" target="_blank">Romer's statement</a> that
the national ranking of ease of doing business would be carried for last four
years, could have a notable impact on India as its ranking jumped from 140 in
2014 to 100 in 2018.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">President’s
Address:</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <i>Our fight
against corruption continues.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reality: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Modi ji has kept
absolutely mum on the following</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>1.Vyapam Scam</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>2. ‘Shah-Zaada Model’ : BJP’s National President, Shri Amit Shah & son, Shri Jay Shah </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>3.Modi Gate: BJP’s Rajasthan CM Smt. Vasundhara Raje & son, Shri Dushyant Singh </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>4.Offshore Bank Account Racket: BJP’s Chhattisgarh CM, Dr Raman Singh & son Shri Abhishek Singh </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>5.Gir Lion Sanctuary Scam: BJP’s Former CM of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel & daughter Ms Anar Patel</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>6. Birla-Sahara Papers – PM in which none other than PM’s name surfaces</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>7. Rs 20,000 Crore GSPC Scam of Gujarat</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>8. Rs 450cr Arunachal Dam Scam - Kiren Rijiju</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>9. Panama Papers- No Action taken</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>10.Srijan Scam</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>11. Rs 23000 Cr Spectrum Scam 2.0</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>12. DDCA Scam</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>13. Rs 25000 Cr Dal Scam</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>14.India Foundation Scam: Sangh affliated, Shri Ajit Doval & son Shri Shaurya Doval </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>15. Rs 15. Lakh in every Bank Account?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 21.3333px;"><b>16. An RTI seeking the exact amount of Black Money since Demonetisation is still pending since an year now. </b></span></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-4174316406647276742017-11-08T05:10:00.000-08:002017-11-08T05:20:05.311-08:00One Year After Demonetisation: BJP Still Mounting New Goalposts <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gGnh4sl1PNuhNP7g-OP3gVue8w4OZ-X41EYg9B7YaHt6axQmCFmXCPbYCeOHt_2hefJJJTzCe2TEGWsBmipojrnV9rfpTAyGpBxbULoqk8ru3xOc01k4QAO_8k-lr43mi_Wqgo6XmAY/s1600/atm-demonetisation-759.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gGnh4sl1PNuhNP7g-OP3gVue8w4OZ-X41EYg9B7YaHt6axQmCFmXCPbYCeOHt_2hefJJJTzCe2TEGWsBmipojrnV9rfpTAyGpBxbULoqk8ru3xOc01k4QAO_8k-lr43mi_Wqgo6XmAY/s640/atm-demonetisation-759.jpg" /></a></div>
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We, the people of India, today observe the first anniversary of an enormous tragedy that caused widespread distress and suffering to 125 crore Indians. The unwitting, thoughtless, unplanned and mismanaged decision of the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi – completely driven by personal ambitions thrusted upon 125 Crore Indians has resulted in an ‘Economic Disaster of Monumental Proportions’. The Narendra Modi Government has launched a no holds barred publicity blitzkrieg to convert the entire debate of demonetisation into binaries of ‘Black Money vs White Money’, but the reality on the ground is that there is insurmountable pain and anguish. </div>
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PM Narendra Modi inflicted a ‘Scam of the Century’ at the expense of our countrymen by this reckless decision. The BJP indulged in organized loot and legalized plunder while the common people of India were forced to queue outside banks and ATM’s. Today, we recall those unsung, unspoken and undocumented people who lost their lives when PM Modi conducted this gigantic social experiment to traumatize them. While the back bone of India’s Economy – the Informal Sector which consists of crores of farmers, daily wage earners, migrants, labourers, craftsmen, street vendors, small traders was devastated by this one ‘Tughlaqi Farmaan’ by – the BJP converted crores of its ill gotten money into ‘legal tender’. </div>
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Demonetisation displayed a brazen display of utter disdain by the Modi Government for Institutions. The reputation of the Reserve Bank of India was shattered into pieces. One man’s adventurism writ large as an unplanned, ill prepared Government and administration took upon itself to implement this huge exercise. Not less than 135 notifications and orders were passed and rules were changed by the minute to enforce the will of one person, while the citizens suffered. </div>
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None of the stated objectives of eliminating black money, terror financing and counterfeit currency have been met. To promote a less-cash economy, coercive steps like demonetisation were ineffective. The Cash in Circulation after one year is close to 90% of previous levels. The fact that more than 99% of the demonetised currency came back into the banking system, has punctured the government’s claims. There are also widespread reports of the rich converting their black money into white while the poor suffered. </div>
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Where has the Black Money gone?</h3>
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RBI Report reflects that out of 15.44 lakh crore money in circulation at the time of demonetisation on November 8, 2016; Rs 15.28 lakh crore have been received back. It means that only Rs 16,000 crore did not come back, so far. </div>
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On the contrary, Prime Minister and Finance Minister had claimed that demonetisation would result in non-deposit of Rs 3-5 lakh crore of black money. On December 10, 2016; Attorney General, Mukul Rohatgi told the Supreme Court that “The Government expects Rs 10 or 11 lakh crore out of a total of Rs 15 lakh crore.</div>
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Will Modi ji answer as to where has the black money gone, as almost the entire money has been re-deposited?</div>
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Where is the ‘Fake Currency’? – Is it Another ‘Jumla’?</h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">PM Modi had announced that detecting fake currency notes was the logic behind demonetisation. Even Finance Ministry in its press release dated 8th November, 2016 had stated detecting fake currency as the reason for demonetisation.</span></div>
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RBI Report has revealed the falsehood of this claim also. Out of 15.28 lakh crore currencies received back, only Rs41 crore currency was found to be fake i.e. 0.0013%. Once 99.998% currency has been found to be genuine, and then the entire logic given by Prime Minister has utterly failed.</div>
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Fake Currency in shape of the new Rs 500/Rs 2000 notes has already been detected. In one case, children were caught photocopying and circulating the new Rs 2000 note. </div>
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Has Terrorism &Naxalism been curbed?</h3>
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Another reason given by Prime Minister Modi for demonetisation was stoppage of terrorism and Naxalism. Facts belie this claim also. Post-demonetisation, there have been 50 major terror incidents in J&K alone, in which 80Jawanshave been martyred and 51 civilians killed.</div>
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Also, there have been 17 major naxal attacks after demonetisation, in which 69 security personnel were martyred and 86 civilians killed. What is the logic of Prime Minister’s claim is un-understandable in view of these figures? </div>
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Cost of printing ‘New Currency’ is more than ‘Savings’- Proves the folly of Demonetisation</h3>
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RBI Report says that only 16,000 crore was not deposited back. RBI Report further reveals that a sum of Rs.25,391 crore was spent on printing/logistics of New notes. Will Modi ji tell the logic of spending 25,391 crore rupees to save 16,000 crore rupees?</div>
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Has India moved towards a ‘Digital Economy’? </h3>
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Last reason given by PM Modi was promotion of digital transaction in the economy. Even this logic appears to have failed. In November, 2016 (prior to demonetisation), value of digital transactions in our economy was 94 lakh crore. Post-demonetisation in July 2017, value of digital transactions was 104 lakh crore i.e. a mere jump of 10 lakh crore over pre-demonetisation period. </div>
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Truth is that the biggest increase in digital transactions happened during Congress-rule. Between 2011-12 to 2012-13, digital transactions jumped by 53%. Between 2012-13 to 2013-14, digital transactions again increased by 49%. This data completely defeats the assertions of the Prime Minister.</div>
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<br />Has ‘Black Money’ been seized? </h3>
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PM Modi and FM Jaitley have been brandishing that since November 2016 upto May 2017, a total Rs 17,526 Crore has been detected as ‘Undisclosed Income’. They forget to mention that 5 times more ‘Black Money’ was unearthed by Congress-UPA in the last two years of the Congress Government. (As seen below)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3vUrDuNFuC7pXWDGT8NGG3Ch2rjAN-qz3_YD_Rz_efwWFAGkNU3gpjNebFwKIp5VlmHhTxx2CwKJT5o1IZ9Zew19TeLyrzttaM0abOFnIBakwT2GzOyf7E4ZUyP4LIerTbswJdcNJwA/s1600/Capture.PNG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3vUrDuNFuC7pXWDGT8NGG3Ch2rjAN-qz3_YD_Rz_efwWFAGkNU3gpjNebFwKIp5VlmHhTxx2CwKJT5o1IZ9Zew19TeLyrzttaM0abOFnIBakwT2GzOyf7E4ZUyP4LIerTbswJdcNJwA/s1600/Capture.PNG" /></a></div>
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<b>As we witnessed hundreds of stories of distress and sufferings, the Government kept changing goalposts to project a positive narrative. Now the BJP spokespersons and propaganda machinery is now mounting new goalposts. </b></div>
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Firstly it is claiming that <b>‘Formalization of the economy’</b> by increase in the tax payer’s base. This is factually wrong. According to the Finance Ministry's Annual Report, the year-to-year growth in the number of tax payers in 2016-17 was 26% (with demonetisation), which is less than 27.6% during 2015-16 (without demonetisation). The Modi Government changed the very definition of the ‘tax base’ and ‘new tax payers added’ through the CBDT, on the recommendation of the Avadhesh Kumar Mishra Committee. As per the new definition, ‘new tax payer added’ are all ‘persons from whom the TDS/TCS deductions are made’. Thus, BJP’s claim that more people are now under the tax net is as manufactured as its GDP numbers based on changing the criteria altogether.</div>
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Secondly, PM Modi recently claimed, in an election rally, that since India’s <b>‘Cash to GDP ratio’</b> has fallen substantially, we have less cash in the system and corruption has gone down. PM forgot to mention that 'currency in circulation' is back to pre-demonetization level. 15.45 lakh crore were demonetized but ' new currency in circulation' is back at 16 lakh crore. Some simple facts puncture the story further. As on March 31, 2017, the cash to GDP ratio had stood at 8.8 per cent, while in June 2017, it increased a shade higher to 9.9 percent as compared to pre-demonetisation cash to GDP ratio of 12.2 per cent. What the Government is not telling is the simple fact that if the economic activity slows down, the growth in currency in circulation is bound to plunge. For the period of three months ending March 2017 and June 2017, the non-government part of the GDP (which forms around 90 per cent of the GDP) has grown by a little over 4 per cent. Further, the Reserve Bank of India tells us that India's Cash to GDP ratio is now close to countries like Germany and France. But if we take the example of another developed country like Japan which has the highest cash to GDP ratio at 19.4 per cent, then will it mean that Japan has wide spread corruption? Answer is simply no. Even as per the Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index for 2016, Japan is the twentieth least corrupt country in the world. Unfortunately, India stands at the 79th position, despite having much lower cash to GDP ratio.</div>
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Third ‘Jumla’ which is being parroted by BJP leaders is that <b>‘interest rates for loans’</b> have seen a substantial decline. This is hogwash. BJP Government has actually targeted the country’s ‘Saving Rates’. Since 2014, BJP has made atleast 8 revisions in the interest rates for various saving schemes including Savings Bank Rate, Public Provident Fund, Kisan Vikas Patra and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana. When there are no savings, then reduction of ‘interest rates for loans’ will be meaningless.</div>
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For example, Government’s principal bank i.e. State Bank of India (SBI) slashed saving bank interest rates from 4% to 3.5%. Saving Accounts in SBI are currently estimated at 37 crore with a deposit of 9.4 lakh crores. If there is a reduction of 0.5% in interest rate, there is a direct loss of Rs.4,700 crore annually to the 37 crore account holders. Couple this with the multiple charges being levied on ATM, Bank and Digital transactions; this has burned deep holes in the pockets of ordinary citizens.</div>
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Fourthly, we are being lectured on <b>‘loot’</b>. This is preposterous. In September, 2016; bank deposits in scheduled banks saw an additional increase of Rs. 5,88,600 lakh crore. Out of this, fixed deposits made between 1st September to 15th September, 2016 alone were over Rs.3 lakh crore. Does it not prove advance knowledge of the decision of demonetisation and conversion of money?</div>
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Lastly, The BJP Government is claiming that now it has now obtained the <b>‘addresses’</b> of those who deposited 99% of the demonetized currency in banks. This is the biggest lie. Had it been the case, BJP Government had complete 365 days and all means to trace these addresses. Not even a single FIR has been registered against such people. Merely floating mismatched figures in the media only reflects a ‘shoot & scoot’ strategy. There is not a single document in public domain which names these tax evaders. Why is PM Modi lying ? </div>
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Demonetisation has turned out to be the biggest scam of independent India. Examples are many:-</h3>
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(i) Kolkata Unit of BJP was caught depositing Rs.500/Rs.1000 notes running into Rs.3 crore on the day of demonetisation in A/c No. 554510034. Despite repeated demands, BJP and RSS have not made public details of money deposited between Ist March, 2016 and 8th November, 2016 in its bank accounts across the country.</div>
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(ii) In the run-up to decision of demonetisation, BJP and RSS purchased properties running into hundreds of crores across the country. Congress has released details of 8 properties valuing Rs.3.41 crore in Bihar and 18 properties in Odisha. Actual market value of these properties is much higher. Despite this, Narendra Modi and Amit Shah have refused to make public the details of properties purchased by BJP/RSS in last one year. Does it not prove that BJP had advance knowledge of the decision of demonetisation and was converting its black money into assets immediately before demonetisation?</div>
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(iii) In September, 2016; bank deposits in scheduled banks saw an additional increase of Rs.5,88,600 lakh crore. Out of this, fixed deposits made between Ist September to 15th September, 2016 alone were over Rs.3 lakh crore. Does it not prove advance knowledge of the decision of demonetisation and conversion of money? Modi government has been unable to explain it nor has made public names of everyone, who had deposited Rs.25 lakh or more.</div>
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(iv) Shockingly and just before demonetization on 08-09-2016, cash of Rs.3 crore was seized from a Maruti Swift Car bearing Regn. No. HR-26AR-9662 at Indira Puram, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. The two occupants of the car, Sidharth Shukla and Anoop Aggarwal claimed that the money belonged to them and they were taking it to Lucknow. Ghaziabad City BJP President, Ashok Monga reached the Police Station and certified on a letter pad that the money was being ‘sent by BJP Central Office to BJP State Office in Lucknow’. Will Modiji and Amit Shah answer the source as also the reason for transferring the money in stashes of cash just before demonetisation instead of a digital transfer, which they are promoting? </div>
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As ordinary people languish in bank lines for days together to withdraw their own money, a parallel ‘black market’ flourishes in converting black money into white by charging a commission upto 30% as also sale and trading of new currency notes with the tacit approval of Modi government. Important issue is that role of none of the BJP leaders involved has been investigated.</div>
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(a) BJP National President, Amit Shah is a Director of Ahmedabad District Cooperative Bank, Ahmedabad. As much as Rs.500 crore were deposited in this bank within 3 days of demonetisation. Why has Amit Shah not been investigated?</div>
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(b) BJP Maharashtra Minister, Pankaja Munde and her sister & BJP MP, Pritam Munde are owners of Vaidyanath Urban Cooperative Bank. In a raid, a sum of Rs.10 crore in old notes and Rs.10 lakh in the new currency of Rs.2000 were recovered. Why have they not been investigated?</div>
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(c) Mahesh Shah of Ahmedabad, Gujarat made a declaration of Rs.13,860 crore in the voluntary income disclosure scheme. He later resiles. As he was giving a TV interview disclosing names of politicians and bureaucrats, he was taken away by Income Tax authorities. Former Gujarat CM, Sureshbhai Mehta has openly spoken about links of Mahesh Shah with Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. Why have they not been investigated?</div>
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(d) Ramesh Gowda, an associate of Karnataka BJP leader & former Minister, G. Janardan Reddy, committed suicide and left behind a suicide note stating conversion of Rs.100 crore of black money by the BJP leader.</div>
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(e) Cash worth Rs.91.50 lakh was recovered from the car of BJP Minister for Cooperation, Subhash Desmukh in Maharashtra.</div>
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(f) A number of BJP leaders were caught with stashes of cash. Sanjiv Kamboj, co-Convener of Legal Cell of BJP in Punjab put up photographs on social media with wads of new Rs.2000 currency notes. Manish Sharma, a BJP leader from West Bengal, close to a Union Minister, was caught with Rs.33 lakh of new currency notes. In Salem, Tamilnadu; Arun, a BJP Youth Wing leader, was caught with new currency notes worth Rs.20.55 lakh. BJP leader, Sushil Vaswani was raided in Madhya Pradesh and a lot of ill-gotten money was recovered.</div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-64378691527383166432017-08-31T03:34:00.001-07:002017-08-31T10:13:03.721-07:00व्यक्तिगत वाहवाही लूटना ही था नोटबंदी का असली उद्देश्य : मोदी<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">लगा</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">के</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">आग</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">शहर</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">को</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">, </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">ये</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">बादशाह</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">ने</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">कहा</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">उठा</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">है</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">दिल</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">में</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">तमाशे</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">का</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">आज</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">शौक़</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">बहुत</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">झुका</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">के</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">सर</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">को</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">सभी</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">शाह</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">-</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">परस्त</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">बोल</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">उठे</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">हुज़ूर</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">शौक़</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">सलामत</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">रहे</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">, </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">शहर</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">और</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">बहुत</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> !<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">इस लेख के उपलिखित शीर्षक को पढ़ कर
घबराइए नहीं, क्योंकि यह एक व्यंग्य है, पर यही नोटबंदी की सच्चाई भी है। प्रधानमंत्री
नरेंद्र मोदी ने ऐसी सत्यपूर्ण ज़िम्मेदारी कभी नहीं ली, पर "दिल को बहलाने को
' ग़ालिब</span> ' ये ख्याल अच्छा है.... !" नोटबंदी <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">द्वारा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मोदी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जनता</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">को</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जिस</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तरह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सताया</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है</span>,
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">उस</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">महा</span>-<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">धोखे</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भरपाई</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">इतिहास</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">शायद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ही</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कोई</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कर</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सके।</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जिस</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तरह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मोहम्मद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बिन</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तुग़लक़</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अपनी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सनक</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भरी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">योजनाओं</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लिए</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जनता</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हितों</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">खिलवाड़</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">करता</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">था</span> , <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">उसी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तरह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">प्रधानमंत्री</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नरेंद्र</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मोदी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भारत</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span>
125 <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">करोड़</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जनता</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">को</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आनन</span> - <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">फ़ानन</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भरे</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">फैसले</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सस्ती</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">राजनैतिक</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वाहवाही</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बटोरने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लिए</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ठग</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लिया</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है।</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बाद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तो</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अब</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सनकी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मोहम्मद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बिन</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तुग़लक़</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सोच</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">रहा</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">होगा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कि</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">उससे</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बड़ा</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सनकी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अब</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भारत</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">धरती</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पर</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अवतरित</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हो</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">गया</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है ! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">रिज़र्व बैंक ऑफ इंडिया की वार्षिक रिपोर्ट
ने अब बिलकुल साफ़ कर दिया है कि नोटबंदी के पश्चात भारतवासियों ने अपना सारा पैसा
(99%) नगदी व्यवस्था में वापस कर दिया है।
नोटबंदी के कारण ₹15.45 लाख करोड़ का नगद अमान्य घोषित हुआ था, पर भारत के नागरिकों
ने उसमे से ₹15.28 लाख करोड़ की राशि लौटा दी।
यानी मात्र ₹16000 करोड़ ही आर्थिकतंत्र में वापस ना आ सके। समझने वाली बात यह
है कि इन ₹16000 करोड़ को खोजने के लिए भाजपा सरकार ने अपना पूरा सरकारी तंत्र झोक दिया।
कुल ₹25391 करोड़ तो सिर्फ संचालन और नए नोट छापने में ही लग गए। किसी भी पाँचवी कक्षा
के बच्चे से भी अगर हम इस साधारण गणित का उत्तर पूछेंगे तो वह इसको नुक्सान ही बताएगा।
<b>8 नवंबर , 2016 की रात जब महान शक्तिशाली,
राजनैतिक सूझ-बूझ से ओत-प्रोत, प्रशासकीय अनुभव से लैस मोदी जी ने यह सपने में भी नहीं
सोचा होगा, कि जब वह नोटबंदी का यह ‘विशालकाय हवन’ संपन्न करेंगे तो इसका परिणाम इतना
उल्टा निकलेगा </b>।<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी
का सबसे बड़ा झूठ तो प्रधानमंत्री जी ने लाल क़िले की प्राचीर से इस साल बोल दिया था।
उन्होंने ना पचने वाला एक ऐसा सफ़ेद झूठ इतनी बेबाक़ तरीके से बोला की 'झूठ' पर अध्ययन
करने वाले बड़े-बड़े मनोवैज्ञानिक और पेशेवर चिकित्सक भी शरमा जाए। उन्होंने यह दावा
किया कि नोटबंदी के बाद, ₹3 लाख करोड़ अर्थव्यवस्था में लौट आये है ! अब ₹16000 करोड़
के आधिकारिक खुलासे के बाद, मोदी जी अभी तक मौन हैं । और उनके वित्तमंत्री जेटली जी
फिर एक अच्छे विधिशास्त्र के विद्यार्थी की तरह कानूनी तर्क -वितर्क दिए जा रहें हैं
।<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी
को लेकर सरकार के प्रवक्ता समय-समय पर, वस्तुस्थिति के मुताबिक़ अपने लक्ष्य और उद्देश्य
एक लटकन (पेंडुलम) के मुताबिक झुलाते रहे, और देश की 125 करोड़ जनता इस तमाशे को झेलती
रही।</span></b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";"> 8 नवंबर , 2016 को रात्रि के 8 बजकर 20 मिनट पर
जब नोटबंदी का भूचाल हमारे ऊपर गिरा, तब इसका उद्देश्य - काले धन को ख़त्म करना व नकली
नोटों से चल रहे आतंकवाद और नक्सलवाद के विनाशकारी धंधे की कब्र खोदना था। नोटबंदी से ना काला धन ख़त्म हुआ और न ही नकली नोट,
ना आतंकवाद का घिनौना चेहरा और न ही नक्सलवाद की साजिशें ! <b>गौर फरमाने वाली बात है की नोटबंदी के बात यह है कि नवम्बर 2016 के बाद हुई
36 बड़े आतंकवाद हमलों में, जम्मू-कश्मीर में अकेले, 46 लोगों की जान चली गयी और 58
जवानों ने अपने प्राणों की आहुति दी । इस फ़ैसले के बाद हुए 13 घातक नक्सली हमलों में
81 लोगो की जाने गयी व 69 जवान शहीद हो गए।
<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी की कथा का एक और अध्याय यह
है कि ,उसके लागू होने के कुछ ही हफ़्तों बाद, भाजपा की गिरगिट-रूपी सरकार ने यह कहा
कि यह 'महान कार्य ' उसने देश "कैश लेस"
बनाने के लिए किया, जिससे की ज़्यादा से ज़्यादा लोग अपने डेबिट-क्रेडिट कार्ड और टेक्नोलॉजी
के अन्य माध्यमों से भुक्तान कर सके। 'डिजिटल
इंडिया' को प्रोत्साहन देना तो सिर्फ एक बहाना साबित हुआ है, असल में नोटबंदी की भीषण
विफलता को जो बचाना था। रिज़र्व बैंक की वार्षिक
रिपोर्ट ने इस दावे का भी पर्दाफ़ाश कर दिया।
<b>रिपोर्ट के मुताबिक 'डिजिटल ट्रांज़ैक्शन्स
' दिसंबर 2016 के महीने पर तो बढ़ें पर मार्च 2017 के आते आते वही पुराने स्तर पर आ
गिरे। ज़ाहिर है की नोटबंदी के दौरान तो लोगो ने अपने कार्ड और मोबाइल भुगतान के माध्यमों
का इस्तेमाल किया, क्योंकि नगद कम था, पर इतने प्रचार भरे 'डीजी धन मेलों ' और 'भीम
ऐप ' होने के बावजूद - खरे नगद पर से अपना नाता नहीं तोड़ा !<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मोदी जी की महान सरकार ने फिर भी हार
नहीं मानी। उन्होंने कहा की नोटबंदी का एक और लक्ष्य है- ज़्यादा से ज़्यादा लोगो को संगठित क्षेत्र की मुख्यधारा में लाकर टैक्स का
फैलाव बढ़वाना। यह भी अच्छा मज़ाक है , सी ऐ
जी की रिपोर्ट ही इस दावे का भंडाफोड़ करती है।
सरकार कह रही है की इस साल अगस्त तक 2.82 करोड़ लोगो ने आयकर विभाग को अपना कर
दाखिल किया, पर हाल ही की सी ऐ जी की रिपोर्ट में कहा गया है की पिछले साल (2015-16) इससे अधिक-
3.98 करोड़ लोगो ने आयकर विभाग को अपना कर दाखिल किया था। <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">न</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सिर्फ</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">एक</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आर्थिक</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">त्रासदी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अपितु</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">एक</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सामाजिक</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">त्रासदी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है।</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">देश</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अर्थव्यवस्था</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span>
90 % </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">योगदान</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">देने</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वाला</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अनौपचारिक</span>-</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">असंगठित</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">क्षेत्र</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सबसे</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ज़्यादा</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">प्रभावित</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हुआ</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">था।</span> </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">किसानों</span> </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पास</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नयी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">फसल</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बोने</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पैसे</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नहीं</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">थे</span>,
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ग्रामीण</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भारत</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हाहाकार</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मचा</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हुआ</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">था।</span></b> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">गलियों</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सामान</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बेचने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वाले</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">फेरीवाले</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">रेहड़ी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पटरी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वाले</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">खाने</span>-<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पीने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">खोमचे</span>
, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बढ़ई</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नाई</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">धोबी</span> , <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कारीगर</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बिजली</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कारीगर</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">रिपेयरमैन</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">प्लंबर</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पोर्टर</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">एवं</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अन्य</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कारीगर</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कपड़े</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यापारी</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">किराना</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">दुकान</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मालिक</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बेकरी</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सब्जीवाले</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">और</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सब्जी</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यापारी</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अनाज</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यापारी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">और</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">विक्रेता</span>, <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">छोटे</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यापारी</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">एवं</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">दुकानदार</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आदि</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सभी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">इस</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">फैसले</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">प्रभावित</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हुए</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">थे।</span> 100 <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अधिक</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लोगों</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लाइनों</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लगकर</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जान</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">चली</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">गयी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">थी</span>- <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">चाहे</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तनावग्रस्त</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अवस्था</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">दिल</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">का</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">दौरा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पड़ने</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हुई</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हो</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">या</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अस्पतालों</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भर्ती</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">रोगियों</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">को</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">समय</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पर</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">उपचार</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">न</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मिलने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वजह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">से</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हुई</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हो</span>
! <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">इन</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सब</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">परिवारों</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">को</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भाजपा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सरकार</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ने</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मुआवज़ा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">देना</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">तो</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">दूर</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">संसद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">शोक</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">संवेदनाये</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नहीं</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">प्रदान</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की।</span> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पूर्व</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">प्रधानमंत्री</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">डॉ</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मनमोहन</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सिंह</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ने</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">संसद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">में</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कहा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">था</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">नोटबंदी</span>
"<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">संगठित</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लूट</span>" <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">और</span> "<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">कानूनी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">डाका</span>" <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है</span> , <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">जिससे</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हमारी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आर्थिक</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यवस्था</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">को</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बड़ा</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">धक्का</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लगेगा।</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आज</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">डॉ</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मनमोहन</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सिंह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">वह</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बात</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">सच</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">हो</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">गयी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">क्योंकि</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">भारत</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आर्थिक</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">गति</span>
<span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अब</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">मंद</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पड़</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">गयी</span> <span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है।</span> <b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">इसका</span> </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">ज़िम्मेदार</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">केवल</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">एक</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यक्ति
ही है</span> </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">क्योंकि</span> </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">उसने</span> </b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">अपने</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">व्यक्तिगत</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">विकास</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">के</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">लिए</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">देश</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">को</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">आर्थिक</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">बर्बादी</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">की</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">राह</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">पर</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">छोड़</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">दिया</span>
</b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif";">है।</span></b> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-16249924352739685992017-07-30T01:52:00.002-07:002017-07-30T03:03:55.545-07:00A New Narrative set by the Congress can still save India <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">निंदक</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">नियरे</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">राखिए</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">,
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ऑंगन</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">कुटी</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">छवाय।</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">बिन</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">पानी</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">, </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">साबुन</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">बिना</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">, </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">निर्मल</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">करे</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">सुभाय।।</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">- </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "nirmala ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%;">कबीरदास<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
commentators and influencers in this country have started writing the epitaph
of the Congress party. They have all the right to believe so because since past
three years or so, the electoral fortunes of the party have seriously dithered,
after the miserable defeat of 2014. Their intense speculation about the future
of the Grand Old Party is something which passionate flag bearers like me cannot
discount, but are profoundly anguished with. The Liberals are angry at us. But
we need to convert that anger into love. I am a Congressman and will remain a
Congress party admirer even if I am the last man standing, although I shall do
everything within my means to prevent that ‘last man’ scenario. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
know I may be painting a negative picture and some of you who will read you
will definitely mock my assessment. Some of you will also question my locus-standi
for writing this- since I am also part of that very system, albeit a very small
part in which the Congress system works, I am responsible too. And Yes I am. But, considering that I am an eternal
optimist, I shall always say, that even though the initial comment of this
writing will force you to doubt my assessment, I shall always yearn that such
an eventuality shall never come. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress
will remain strong and Congress will overcome its present problems. We shall
again redeem India and will not let it slip to the darkness. Our <a href="http://countryawake.blogspot.in/2015/01/the-idea-of-congress.html">ideals
and ideology</a> is rock solid and our commitment for Secularism is
unflinching. Compassion, brotherhood, love and respect are the pillars which
install the foundation of our basis. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
lot is being written and a lot is being said. Yes, there are a lot of inherent
flaws with which our inner party system works, but there are innumerable
positives also. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
honeymoon period of the Modi Government saw the Congress party believing that
since it is the largest and natural political force of governance and the BJP
lacks the ability to solidly govern and administer, it will never be able to
live up to the expectations of people. This has actually led to its complacency
and turning it into a reactive force. “<i>Jab
yeh galitiya karenge, abhi nahi toh 5-10 saal baad humara waqt aayega</i>”
(When they will make mistakes, not today, but eventually after 5-10 years we
will be back in power) was the drawing room chatter of every Congressmen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Then
came a period, where the superficial layers which gloss the BJP’s incompetence
began to peel off. Failures, after
failures with time- But at the most the Congress acted as a reactionary force,
failing to capitalize the blunders of the ruling dispensation. The single
biggest mistake which critics and admirers alike will admit that the Congress
party in the UPA era failed to build its cadre, especially in states, where it
was weak. An opposition needs a robust and a committed worker. The Congress is
a mass based party and not a cadre based one, yet it has certain unique
organizational strengths, which it could have tapped into. Its frontals are
more or less defunct and at the most have become extremely sycophantic in
nature- with almost no vision or plan of action. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Three
years now into the dark ages of the Modi Government, where the BJP is using
every trick in the political book to expand its hungry fangs to annihilate
India, the Congress is making last ditch attempts to somehow foster an opposition
unity, without much success. The Nitish Kumar fiasco may have its opportunistic
and political strokes, and broad ones indeed, yet the Congress has to somehow
take its share of blame too. I know, I will again be accused of crossing the <i>Lakshman Rekha</i> (Red Line) while I try to
objectively put forth this assessment, but acceptance of failures, is the first
stepping stone to success. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
have been hinting and posting on Social Media, <a href="http://countryawake.blogspot.in/2014/05/humbled-by-mandate-thoughts-unlimited.html">since
long</a>, that the Congress needs a positive agenda. <b>A solid, implementable
narrative and a new vision to take along those committed liberal voters who
still believe in those ideals on which the edifice our Constitution was laid.
Time and again, I have come to this conclusion that only a positive narrative
can resurrect the Congress. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>For
starters, we should look at our own 2014 Manifesto. This 45 page document should
be our Magna Carta to attack and question the BJP. It will give us more
credibility because we shall not be merely criticizing the policies, but also put
forth a positive policy solution. “Had the Congress been in power, there were the
5 steps it would have taken to solve agrarian distress”. “These are the steps
that the Congress party would have taken to create more jobs”. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>It
is not that the Congress party is not taking steps to revamp its organizational
structure. Election process will complete this year and a new team is slowly
and steadily been set up. New General Secretary in-charges for states are being
appointed. The Communications department of the party is seeing new faces and a
newer strategy for the same is in place now. </b><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Research and Social Media wings have also been refurbished and are
working with new vigour. Yes, we lack in Media Management, and that needs to be
proactively dealt with. </span></b><b> A large section of media has
become the mouthpiece for the BJP, and the Congress needs to find an alternate
for the same. There are several deficiencies too, which are well known. These
need to be resolved. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
voter connect is only possible when you gather small constituencies of groups
together and target your liberal supporters. Laziness, complacency and
arrogance should be done away with. A strong ideological resolve is needed so
as solidify your support base. We all know what ails the Congress party, we
also have some solutions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">No
political party that has a closed system and secretive in nature can function
in a vibrant democracy. We have to open the doors for the converted and to the swing
ones. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Congress should aim for opposition unity, but that does not mean that it can
tie up with any political party which is ideologically not at the same page as
the Congress. We have seen that in West Bengal and in Uttar Pradesh. Let us not repeat
that. The Congress should try and build consensus, but if that is not possible,
just leave these regional parties to fend for themselves. We should stop
pandering to them. Let us built our own identity, we were successful because we
had one. We should not leave it. Opposition unity is good for short term goals,
but in the long term, we should strive for our own National space. In states,
where we are dependent on regional satraps, we have only declined. Even if we
win one seat, it should be on our own. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If
we do not implement a positive agenda and restructure ourselves, then even our forefathers,
who so painstakingly built this country, will not forgive us for sending India
to the dark ages. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">All
the views expressed in the article by the author are strictly personal.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-11651386664313180842017-07-03T07:08:00.001-07:002017-07-03T07:10:20.036-07:00How the BJP is blundering on India’s 'China Policy' <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgm2ZzucvKgzypErTxdYDOJNmwOfC2ZMgAiyO2zivvUbyHq8tgok5Qb5GXOfEjVCyfiQw63XYygGSmF4-zG_dP3hWlJF9HKdT90mbDYhevXW5uBzcmSP456uSx_2BY7u6vDMwBaXPkeI/s1600/2663905088_cd8feedb28_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgm2ZzucvKgzypErTxdYDOJNmwOfC2ZMgAiyO2zivvUbyHq8tgok5Qb5GXOfEjVCyfiQw63XYygGSmF4-zG_dP3hWlJF9HKdT90mbDYhevXW5uBzcmSP456uSx_2BY7u6vDMwBaXPkeI/s1600/2663905088_cd8feedb28_z.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Five
decades ago, on October 7, 1966, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had <a href="http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/genesis-of-a-border-standoff-when-china-attacked-indira-gandhi-in-1966-for-supporting-bhutan/story-BzCLTnwkV2ioO2ueJkUi6N.html">openly
asserted</a> at the press conference on October 7, 1966 that India was
committed to protect Bhutan from China. Today, a serious situation is developing
at Doklam (also called Donglang), which is part of Bhutan, but is also claimed
by China. It is located at a tri-junction of India, Tibet and Bhutan and is
close to the 14000 feet high Nathu La pass, through which China has blocked this
year's Kailash Mansoravar Yatra, which was much hyped by <a href="http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Second-Kailash-Manasarovar-route-to-open-next-month-PM-Modi/articleshow/47294436.cms">Prime
Minister, Narendra Modi</a> as ‘his government’s gift of a second route for
millions of <i>Shiva Bhakts.</i>’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
very delicate and extremely serious situation is developing at the Chinese
boundary adjoining Sikkim. A month long standoff between the Indian Army and
the Chinese Army has taken place- this is the longest standoff between India
and China in last 55 years (since 1962) According to media reports<a href="http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indian-bunker-in-sikkim-removed-by-china-sources/article19161953.ece">,
China has destroyed 2 bunkers of the Indian Army at Doklam plateau</a>. There
are two key Chinese objectives in initiating the Doklam standoff. First, it seems
to be testing India’s resolve to stand by its long cherished friend Bhutan and secondly,
China is fostering an aggressive attitude towards the delicate and strategic
‘Chicken Neck’ which connects the rest of India to the northeast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Since the day, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi swung
in a “Jhoola” and relished “Dhokla” in Ahmadabad, Gujarat with his Chinese
counterpart, China has time and again proceeded to break the <a href="http://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/6577/Joint+Statement+of+the+Republic+of+India+and+the+Peoples+Republic+of+China">land
boundary agreement</a> which the then Congress-UPA Government had entered into in
2005 and later signed by both the heads of the state in 2013. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Line of Actual Control in the India-China border
areas, signed in April 2005 and<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Border Defence Cooperation Agreement, signed in
October 2013, <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Also, India has underlined that the two Governments
had in 2012 reached agreement that the tri-junction boundary points between
India, China and third countries will be finalized in consultation with the
concerned countries. Any attempt, therefore, to unilaterally determine
tri-junction points is in violation of this understanding. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We must not forget the fact that Chinese incursions have
continuously increased under the BJP Government. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In the past <a href="http://aajtak.intoday.in/story/meeting-in-home-ministry-about-intrusion-of-chinese-soldiers-1-937852.html">45
days, 120 Chinese Incursions</a> have taken place, while 240 such incursions
have taken place till this month in 2017.</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The much hyped
second route of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathu La stopped suddenly by
China has dealt a severe blow to India’s diplomatic image<b>. Despite the Chinese Army destroying the facilities built for the
Indian pilgrims, the BJP Government did not pay any heed to the miseries of the
pilgrims, till they started posting videos and pictures of the Chinese Army’s
destroying them. </b>The stoic silence and inaction by the BJP Government is
for all of us to see. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On June 4, 2017: Two Chinese Army choppers violated
the Indian airspace, by hovering over Chamoli district.</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> On previous occasions, Chinese helicopters had
entered 4.5 kilometres into Indian territory, an area that China claims as its
own in Barahoti ,Uttarakhand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Border disputes
with China have again reached center stage with repeated breaches and
incursions by the Chinese forces along the international border; However, in
March , this year - the MoS Defence in a
written reply to the Parliament says that there were <a href="http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/govt-says-no-instances-of-chinese-incursion-but-transgressions-do-occur/story-vpBGKz1V7vUUp2NfABkSpL.html">“No
Chinese Incursions, Only Transgressions</a>”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Earlier Home
Minister, Rajnath Singh has said, that “Chinese Intrusion are only Perception” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
have been multiple occasions where this BJP Government has failed to secure
India’s National Interests, viz-a-viz China: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China vetoes
declaration of Masood Azhar as an ‘international terrorist’ under Pakistan’s
pressure<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China blocks
India’s membership of ‘Nuclear Suppliers Group’ asking for parity with rogue
Pakistan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China opposes
India’s membership of UN Security Council.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On Dec 19, 2016;
Russia extended support to China-Pak Economic Corridor & expressed intent
to connect it with Eurasian Economic Union.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China – Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) worth $54
billion built through PoK/Balochistan connecting Gwadar Port in Arabian Sea to
China with base for Chinese submarines- Does it not compromise India’s
Sovereign right over POK & affect our strategic interests? </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China renames six places in Arunachal Pradesh on its
official map.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">7.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nepal accusing the Government of India of
interference in its domestic matters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sri Lankan Government refusing to sign the
comprehensive Economic partnership agreement (CEPA) with India.</span> <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China-sponsored infrastructure developments in
neighboring Sri Lanka offer an instructive lesson. Numerous infrastructure
projects, negotiated in secret by the former Sri Lankan government of Mahinda
Rajapaksa, saddled the Sri Lankan treasury with debts to China estimated at
some $8 billion. Sri Lanka cannot repay what it owes, so it has negotiated a
debt-for-equity swap of the Hambantota Port project.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">9.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">India is feeling increasingly isolated on its stand
with respect to the grandiose One Belt, One Road (OBOR) imitative by China,
which hosted Russian President, Vladimir Putin as its chief guest. The general
perception amongst experts is that India could have been a part of the initial
meetings and then shown its strident opposition to China and Pakistan
constructing road through Gilgit-Baltistan- an integral part of India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">China
has exponentially expanded strategic, economic & defense partnerships with
Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. This maximalist position of China to
encircle India and cramp its strategic space has been highlighted time and again
by strategic <a href="http://epaperbeta.timesofindia.com/Article.aspx?eid=31808&articlexml=China-issues-map-to-play-victim-cover-PLAs-03072017007020">affairs
expert Brahma Chellaney</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It
is pertinent to note that, during PM Modi’s recent visit to the United States,
he did not raise any issue which affected India-China relations. Be it China
stalling India’s entry into the NSG or China blocking Masood Azhar’s name to be
declared as a ‘global terrorist. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The UPA- Congress Govt approved the raising of
‘Mountain Strike Corps’ along the China border with 90,274 additional soldiers
at a cost of Rs 64,678 Crore . After the
BJP came to power, it has put this project into deep freezer. This
Mountain Strike Corps could have been useful in today's standoff, but the BJP
has lost this opportunity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This is what happens when you appoint either a ‘Reluctant’
Defence Minister or a ‘Part Time’ Defence Minister<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-15455702425568590962017-06-05T05:26:00.000-07:002017-06-05T05:27:00.530-07:00Indira Gandhi's Speech at the Stockholm Conference in 1972<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Man And Environment </h2>
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<b>Smt. Indira Gandhi </b></div>
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<b>(late Prime Minister of India) </b></div>
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<b>Plenary Session of United Nations Conference on Human Environment </b></div>
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<b>Stockholm 14th June, 1972 </b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsT9dbk1ZIbnqZkFR8AxH0wuvYII0g-b-vWRerSEEnzSHifsee61SP8kKSwduU-KIx9HwcBu4PJB7pDVkpSo33hO4TsMn2zIDr92mEbQz3JQb7d8WhJKDjKLICnxQM-JHdYhA3ST9j8ss/s1600/C_tLV11UwAAzSUX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1188" data-original-width="1200" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsT9dbk1ZIbnqZkFR8AxH0wuvYII0g-b-vWRerSEEnzSHifsee61SP8kKSwduU-KIx9HwcBu4PJB7pDVkpSo33hO4TsMn2zIDr92mEbQz3JQb7d8WhJKDjKLICnxQM-JHdYhA3ST9j8ss/s400/C_tLV11UwAAzSUX.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><br />
<br />
Indira Gandhi in the gardens at Anand Bhawan, her ancestral home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is indeed an honour to address this Conference-in itself a fresh expression of the spirit which created the United Nations-concern for the present and future welfare of humanity. It does not aim merely at securing limited agreements but at establishing peace and harmony in life-among all races and with Nature. This gathering represents man's earnest endeavour to understand his own condition and to prolong his tenancy of this planet. A vast amount of detailed preparatory work has gone into the convening of this Conference guided by the dynamic personality of Mr. Maurice Strong the Secretary General.</div>
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I have had the good fortune of growing up with a sense of kinship with nature in all its manifestations. Birds, plants, stones were companions and, sleeping under the star-strewn sky, I became familiar with the names and movements of the constellations. But my deep interest in this our `only earth' was not for itself but as a fit home for man.</div>
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One cannot be truly human and civilized unless one looks upon not only all fellow-men but all creation with the eyes of a friend. Throughout India, edicts carved on rocks and iron pillars are reminders that 22 centuries ago the Emperor Ashoka defined a King's duty as not merely to protect citizens and punish wrongdoers but also to preserve animal life and forest trees. Ashoka was the first and perhaps the only monarch until very recently, to forbid the killing of a large number of species of animals for sport or food, foreshadowing some of the concerns of this Conference. He went further, regretting the carnage of his military conquests and enjoining upon his successors to find "their only pleasure in the peace that comes through righteousness".</div>
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Along with the rest of mankind, we in India--in spite of Ashoka have been guilty of wanton disregard for the sources of our sustenance. We share you concern at the rapid deterioration of flora and fauna. Some of our own wildlife has been wiped out, miles of forests with beautiful old trees, mute witnesses of history, have been destroyed. Even though our industrial development is in its infancy, and at its most difficult stage, we are taking various steps to deal with incipient environmental imbalances. The more so because of our concern for the human being--a species which is also imperiled. In poverty he is threatened by malnutrition and disease, in weakness by war, in richness by the pollution brought about by his own prosperity.</div>
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It is said that in country after country, progress should become synonymous with an assault on nature. We who are a part of nature and dependent on her for very need, speak constantly about "exploiting" nature. When the highest mountain in the world was climber in 1953, Jawaharlal Nehru objected to the phrase "conquest of Everest" which he thought was arrogant. It is surprising that this lack of consideration and the constant need to prove one's superiority should be projected onto our treatment of our fellowmen? I remember Edward Thompson, a British writer and a good friend of India, once telling Mr. Gandhi that wildlife was fast disappearing. Remarked the Mahatma--"It is decreasing in the jungles but it is increasing in the town".</div>
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We are gathered here under the aegis of the United Nations. We are supposed to belong to the same family sharing common traits and impelled by the same basic desires, yet we inhabit a divided world.</div>
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How can it be otherwise? There is still no recognition of the equality of man or respect for him as an individual. In matters of colour and race, religion and custom, society is governed by prejudice. Tensions arise because of man's aggressiveness and notions of superiority. The power of the big stick prevails and it is used not in favour of fair play or beauty, but to chase imaginary windmills--to assume the right to interfere in the affairs of others, and to arrogate authority for action which would not normally be allowed. Many of the advanced countries of today have reached their present affluence by their domination over other races and countries, the exploitation of their own natural resources. They got a head start through sheer ruthlessness, undisturbed by feelings of compassion or by abstract theories of freedom, equality or justice. The stirrings of demands for the political rights of citizens, and the economic rights of the toiler came after considerable advance had been made. The riches and the labour of the colonized countries played no small part in the industrialization and prosperity of the West. Now, as we struggle to create a better life for our people, it is in vastly different circumstances, for obviously in today's eagle-eyed watchfulness we cannot indulge in such practices even for a worthwhile purpose. We are bound by our own ideals. We owe allegiance to the principles of the rights of workers and the norms enshrined in the charters of international organizations. Above all we are answerable to the millions of politically awakened citizens in our countries. All these make progress costlier and more complicated.</div>
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On the one hand the rich look askance at our continuing poverty--on the other, they warn us against their own methods. We do not wish to impoverish the environment any further and yet we cannot for a moment forget the grim poverty of large numbers of people. Are not poverty and need the greatest polluters? For instance, unless we are in a position to provide employment and purchasing power for the daily necessities of the tribal people and those who live in or around our jungles, we cannot prevent them from combing the forest for food and livelihood; from poaching and from despoiling the vegetation. When they themselves feel deprived, how can we urge the preservation of animals? How can we speak to those who live in villages and in slums about keeping the oceans, the rivers and the air clean when their own lives are contaminated at the source? The environment cannot be improved in conditions of poverty. Nor can poverty be eradicated without the use of science and technology.</div>
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Must there be conflict between technology and a truly better world or between enlightenment of the spirit and a higher standard of living? Foreigners sometimes ask what to us seems a very strange question, whether progress in India would not mean diminishing of her spirituality or her values. Is spiritual quality so superficial as to be dependent upon the lack of material comfort? As a country we are not more or less spiritual than any other but traditionally our people have respected the spirit of detachment and renunciation. Historically, our great spiritual discoveries were made during periods of comparative affluence. The doctrines of detachment from possessions were developed not as rationalization of deprivation but to prevent comfort and ease from dulling the senses. Spirituality means the enrichment of the spirit, the strengthening of ones inner resources and the stretching of one's range of experience. It is the ability to be still in the midst of activity and vibrantly alive in moments of calm; to separate the essence from circumstances; to accept joy and sorrow with some equanimity. Perception and compassion are the marks of true spirituality.</div>
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I am reminded of an incident in one of our tribal areas. The vociferous demand of elder tribal chiefs that their customs should be left undisturbed found support from noted anthropologists. In its anxiety that the majority should not submerge the many ethnic, racial and cultural groups in our country, the Government of India largely accepted this advice. I was amongst those who entirely approved. However, a visit to remote part of our north-east frontier brought me in touch with a different point of view-the protest of the younger elements that while the rest of India was on the way to modernization they were being preserved as museum pieces. Could we not say the same to the affluent nations?</div>
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For the last quarter of a century, we have been engaged in an enterprise unparalled in human history--the provision of basic needs to one-sixth of mankind within the span of one or two generations. When we launched on that effort our early planners had more than the usual gaps to fill. There was not enough data and no helpful books. No guidance could be sought from the experience of other countries whose conditions--political, economic, social and technological--were altogether different. Planning in the sense we were innovating, had never been used in the context of a mixed economy. But we could not wait. The need to improve the conditions of our people was pressing. Planning and action, the improvement of data leading to better planning and better action, all this was a continuous and overlapping process. Our industrialization tended to follow the paths which the more advanced countries had traversed earlier. With the advance of the 60's and particularly during the last five years, we have encountered a bewildering collection of problems, some due to our shortcomings but many inherent in the process and in existing attitudes. The feeling is growing that we should re-order our priorities and move away from the single-dimensional model which has viewed growth from certain limited angles, which seems to have given a higher place to things rather than to persons and which has increased our wants rather than our enjoyment. We should have a more comprehensive approach to life, centred on man not as a statistic but an individual with many sides to his personality. The solution of these problems cannot be isolated phenomena of marginal importance but must be an integral part of the unfolding of the very process of development.</div>
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The extreme forms in which questions of population or environmental pollution are posed, obscure the total view of political, economic and social situations. The Government of India is one of the few which has an officially sponsored programme of family planning and this is making some progress. We believe that planned families will make for a healthier and more conscious population. But we know also that no programme of population control can be effective without education and without a visible rise in the standard of living. Our own programmes have succeeded in the urban or semi-urban areas. To the very poor, every child is an earner and a helper. We ar experimenting with new approaches and the family planning programme is being combined with those of maternity and child welfare, nutrition and development in general.</div>
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It is an over--simplification to blame all the world's problems on increasing population. Countries with but a small fraction of the world population consume the bulk of the world's production of minerals, fossil fuels and so on. Thus we see that when it comes to the depletion of natural resources and environmental pollution, the increase of one inhabitant in an affluent country., at his level of living, is equivalent to an increase of many Asian, Africans or Latin Americans at their current material levels of living.</div>
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The inherent conflict is not between conservation and development, but between environment and reckless exploitation of man and earth in the name of efficiency. Historians tell us that the modern age began with the will to freedom of the individual. And the individual came to believe that the had rights with no corresponding obligations. The man who got ahead was the one who commanded admiration. No questions were asked as to the methods employed or the price which others had to pay. The industrial civilization has promoted the concept of the efficient man, he whose entire energies are concentrated on producing more in a given unit of time and from a given unit of manpower. Groups or individuals who ar less competitive and according to this test, less efficient are regarded as lesser breeds--for example the older civilizations, the black and brown peoples, women and certain professions. Obsolescence is built into production, and efficiency is based on the creation of goods which are not really needed and which cannot be disposed of when discarded. What price such efficiency now, and is not recklessness a more appropriate term for such a behaviour?</div>
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All the `isms' of the modern age--even those which in theory disown the private profit principle--assume that man's cardinal interest is acquisition. The profit motive, individual or collectives, seems to overshadow all else. This overriding concern with self and Today is the basic cause of the ecological crisis.</div>
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Pollution is not a technical problem. The fault lies not in science and technology as such but in the sense of values of the contemporary world which ignores the rights of others and is oblivious of the longer perspective.</div>
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There are grave misgivings that the discussion on ecology may be designed to distract attention from the problems of war and poverty. We have to prove to the disinherited majority of the world that ecology and conservation will not work against their interest but will bring an improvement in their lives. To withhold technology from them would deprive them of vast resources of energy and knowledge. This is no longer feasible not will it be acceptable.</div>
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The environmental problems of developing countries are not the side effects of excessive industrialization but reflect the inadequacy of development. The rich countries may look upon development as the cause of environmental destruction, but to us it is one of the primary means of improving the environment for living, or providing food, water, sanitation and shelter; of making the deserts green and the mountains habitable. The research and perseverance of dedicated people have given us an insight which is likely to play an important part in the shaping of our future plans. We see that however much man hankers after material goods, they can never give him full satisfaction. Thus the higher standard of living must be achieved without alienating people from their heritage and without despoiling nature of its beauty, freshness and purity so essential to our lives.</div>
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The most urgent and basic question is that of peace. Nothing is so pointless as modern warfare. Nothing destroys so instantly, so completely as the diabolic weapons which not only kill but maim and deform the living and the yet to be born; which poison the land, leaving long trails of ugliness, barrenness and hopeless desolation. What ecological projects can survive a war? The Prime Minister of Sweden, Mr. Olof Palme, has already drawn the attention of the Conference to this in powerful words.</div>
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It is clear that the environmental crisis which is confronting the world, will profoundly alter the future destiny or our planet. No one among us, whatever our status, strength or circumstance can remain unaffected. The process of change challenges present international policies. Will the growing awareness of "one earth" and "one environment' guide us to the concept of "one humanity"? Will there be a more equitable sharing of environmental costs and greater international interest in the accelerated progress of the less developed world? Or, will it remain confined to a narrow concern, based on exclusive self-sufficiency?</div>
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The first essays in narrowing economic and technological disparities have not succeeded because the policies of aid were made to subserve the equations of power. We hope that the renewed emphasis on self-reliance, brought a about by the change in the climate for aid, will also promote search for new criteria of human satisfaction. In the meantime, the ecological crises should not add to the burdens of the weaker nations by introducing new considerations in the political and trade policies of rich nations. It would be ironic if the fight against pollution were to be converted into another business, out of which a few companies, corporations, or nations would make profits at the cost of the many. Here is a branch of experimentation and discovery in which scientist of all nations should take interest. They should ensure that their findings are available to all nations, unrestricted by patents. I am glad that the Conference has given thought on this aspect of the problem.</div>
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Life is one and the world is one, and all these questions are inter-linked. The population explosion; poverty; ignorance and disease, the pollution of our surroundings, the stockpiling of nuclear weapons and biological and chemical agents of destruction are all parts of a vicious circle. Each is important and urgent but dealing with them one by one would be wasted effort.</div>
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It serves little purpose to dwell on the past or to apportion blame, no one of us is blameless. If some are able to dominate over others, it is at least partially due to the weakness, the lack of unity and the temptation of gaining some advantage on the part of those who submit. If the prosperous have been exploiting the needy, can we honestly claim that in our own societies people do not take advantage of the weaker sections? We must re-evaluate the fundamentals on which our respective civic societies are based and the ideals by which they are sustained. If there is to be a change of heart, a change of direction and methods of functioning, it is not an organization or a country-no matter how well intentioned--which can achieve it. While each country must deal with that aspect of the problem which is most relevant to it, it is obvious that all countries must unite in an overall endeavour. There is no alternative to a cooperative approach on a global scale to the entire spectrum of our problems.</div>
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I have referred to some problems which seem to me to be the underlying causes of the present crises in our civilization. This is not in the expectation that this Conference can achieve miracles or solve all the world's difficulties, but in the hope that the opinions of each national will be kept in focus, that these problems will be viewed in perspective and each project devised as part of the whole.</div>
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On a previous occasion I have spoken of the unfinished revolution in our countries I am now convinced that this can be taken to its culmination when it is accompanied by a revolution in social thinking. In 1968 at the 14th General Conference of UNESCO the Indian delegation, along with others, proposed a new and major programme entitled "a design for living". This is essential to grasp the full implications of technical advance and its impact on different sections and groups. We do not want to put the clock back or resign ourselves to a simplistic natural state. We want new directions in the wiser use of the knowledge and tools with which science has equipped us. And this cannot be just one upsurge but a continuous search into cause and effect and an unending effort to match technology with higher levels of thinking. We must concern ourselves not only with the kind of world we want but also with what kind of man should inhabit it. Surely we do not desire a society divided into those who condition and those who are conditioned. We want thinking people capable of spontaneous self-directed activity, people who are interested and interesting, and who are imbued with compassion and concern for others.</div>
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It will not be easy for large societies to change their style of living. They cannot be coerced to do so, nor can governmental action suffice. People can be motivated and urged to participate in better alternatives.</div>
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It has been my experience that people who are at cross purposes with nature are cynical about mankind and ill-at-ease with themselves. Modern man must re-establish an unbroken link with nature and with life. He must again learn to invoke the energy of growing things and to recognize, as did the ancients in India centuries ago, that one can take from the Earth and the atmosphere only so much as one puts back into them. In their hymn to Earth, the sages of the Atharva Veda chanted-I quote,</div>
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<b>"What of thee I dig out, let that quickly grow over, Let me</b><b>not hit thy vitals, or thy heart".</b><b>So can man himself be vital and of good heart and</b><b>conscious of his responsibility</b></h3>
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<span style="background-color: #2a2a2a; color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">This speech can be found </span><a href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=9&ved=0CGoQFjAI&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.greenteacher.org%2Fimages%2FEE%2520Papers%2FMan%2520And%2520Environment.doc&ei=XhgHUJvAK8TQtAaKorjoBg&usg=AFQjCNGFyX0dWWQbZxS_Sx1cyJHaigBmhA&sig2=w-qS-B6EG9s6ytmo75rFWw" style="background-color: #2a2a2a; color: #f1c232; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>here</b></a><span style="background-color: #2a2a2a; color: white; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.85px;">.</span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-473471525274746462017-05-03T22:49:00.001-07:002017-05-04T02:21:21.658-07:00BJP’s Lost Opportunity in Jammu and Kashmir<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Let
the dust of media frenzy, hyperbole and jingoism settle down in TV studios. Let
our electronic media get free after mindlessly indulging in meaningless debates
after every Indian soldier dies. Let the hyper nationalistic (read: pseudo
nationalistic) slogan shouting end. Wake me up when all this ends. We all will
be woken up once either the ruling party or the opposition announces its candidate
for that could be our next President of India. Snap! The news cycle will
change. All the deaths of soldiers and the turmoil of Jammu and Kashmir will be
forgotten and the screams and cries of the families of martyrs will cease to
echo in our hearts and minds. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
am not writing this blog to again talk about media vitiating the atmosphere or
the ruling party endangering our National Security paradigm. I have written
enough of the latter, in my previous write-ups and any level headed thinking
individual will agree with my assessment. I am not a strategic expert or a
foreign policy pundit who would give you ten pointers on “How-India-should-deal-with-terrorism”
and so on. I follow as much news and events from the very same sources as the
readers who are reading this blog. (Or may be less) I am certainly going to ask
some tough questions to the establishment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
my humble opinion, RSS and the BJP are deliberately ruining the state of Jammu
and Kashmir – the only minority dominated state of India, in order to win votes
in the rest of the country. They are deliberately creating conditions in the
state, especially in the valley, so that they are able to show to the rest of
India- how “tough” they are in dealing with a certain religious identity. The
BJP which is born, brought up, nurtured and rests on the edifice of religious
fissures is using all means to make a point to the rest of majority dominated
India, that it can ruin the happiness of a minority dominated state.<br /> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
political fortunes of BJP have always risen when it creates conditions of
division between communities- we have seen that in the past with the Babri
Masjid demolition and in Gujarat 2002. We are now witnessing this in Jammu and
Kashmir. This time the politics is not so overt. It is more nuanced and more
subtle- dipped in ‘nationalism’. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
earlier incidents of the unrest in Jawaharlal Nehru University and the recent
unrest in Delhi University which leverages its germination to Kashmiri
separatism, gives credence to this kind of propaganda politics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
BJP will never take to task the real Pakistani backed separatists in Jammu and
Kashmir, will never prosecute them, will never jail them (no superficial house
arrests please) because they want the flame of Kashmiri separatism to burn and
show to the rest of India two politically important aspects. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">First,
the Jammu and Kashmir problem is a baggage of the Congress party and is a
legacy issue which they are inheriting. They forget that, Jammu and Kashmir
during the Congress led UPA regime has been the most peaceful in the past 70
years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Secondly,
they want to project, that the problem of Jammu and Kashmir is a religious one-
not a political one. That is why no eyebrows are raised when the valley sees
ISIS or Pakistani flags being openly displayed in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
is no doubt that since last July, Jammu and Kashmir has seen lot. Be it chaos
and violence after the killing of terrorist Burhan Wani, or the raising of ISIS
flags in the heart of Srinagar. Be it the burning of schools or be it the spate
of bank robberies. Be it the abysmal percentage of voting in the Srinagar by
poll or the cancellation of Anantnag bypoll, from where the Chief Minister’s
brother was fighting elections. Be it the radicalization of young stone pelters
and luring them by anti-national separatists or be it the visuals of school
girls throwing stones at security forces. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Jammu
and Kashmir has witnessed the worst of the times, alienation is increasing. And
the only National Force, which could have saved the situation in the state was
the Bharatiya Janata Party, is using the state as a bait to attract more
majority votes from the Hindi heartland. I may be completely wrong in my
assessment, and may be trashed for jumping to such a conclusion. But even my
baiters cannot deny that the situation is grim and the BJP is solely
responsible for such a sad and terrible state of affairs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Jammu
and Kashmir is an inseparable part of India, and I have no two doubts about
that. May be people will question my limited knowledge about the state, and may
be they will be correct to do that- But I strongly feel that the Narendra Modi
Government has miserably lost the trust of people of the people of Jammu and
Kashmir. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Indictment from own<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Jammu
and Kashmir CM, Mehbooba Mufti met the Prime Minister recently, and urged to
follow the footsteps of Vajpayee with
respect to dialogue in the state Her statement is a strong indictment of PM’s Kashmir
Policy and shows that the BJP-PDP has miserably failed in the last 2 years. The
people of Jammu and Kashmir are bearing the brunt of the policy paralysis of
the BJP-PDP Government in the past 2 years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">His
<i>“Jamhooriyat, Insaniyat and Kashmiriyat</i>”
is only an empty slogan and nothing concrete has happened in terms of
development and peace in Jammu and Kashmir.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP’s
In-charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Ram Madhav in a recent interview accepted that
the BJP-PDP Government has failed in its responsibility to maintain peace in
the state.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lip service through delegations<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
year ago, an All Party Parliamentary delegation went to Jammu and Kashmir to
talk to citizens, but the Centre has not followed it up with any concrete
action. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
much hyped Yashwant Sinha report which was prepared by meeting separatist
leader Syed Shah Geelani has been again put in cold storage, with the Centre
distancing itself from the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Alliance continues to dither and
speak in contradictory voices<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Purely
opportunistic alliance between BJP-PDP has neither an ideological foundation
nor a purpose other than a pure lust for power. Leaders from both sides give
contradictory statements to divert attention and befool and then share the
power together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Senior
PDP members recently accused the BJP of acting against the Agenda of Alliance
following the national party’s leaders justifying use of force to control
violence. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
referring to the controversy over CRPF jawans using a human shield, BJP leader
Ram Madhav had said, “everything is fair in love and war.” Chander Prakash
Ganga, Minister in the Mehabooba Mufti Government, had justified use of bullets
against stone-pelters. “If Kashmiris are perceived as enemies and
anti-nationals, why did BJP agree in principle for an Agenda of Alliance? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP
unfortunately seems shying away from its responsibility as coalition partner on
the ground,” Minister for Education Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari asked. He
alleged that Madhav’s remarks were aimed at legitimising human right
violations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Earlier,
when terrorist Burhan Wani was killed, Deputy CM , Nirmal Singh, had said that
the incident was an accident, which was in direct contraction to what happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress ensured peace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
the Congress Government came to power in Jammu and Kashmir – during UPA- It inherited
a legacy of massive unrest, violence and a culture of stone pelting- During
those 10 years, the Congress ensured a new paradigm of democracy and dialogue
upto the Gram Panchayat level as also job opportunities for the youth by
launching Skill Development programmes like Udaan. Congress Vice
President, Rahul Gandhi had taken a
delegation of India Inc to Jammu and Kashmir and several schemes were started.
Therefore, the Congress could ensure lasting peace and harmony in Jammu and
Kashmir.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP- the national party has failed
us<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Since
May, 2014, India has lost more than 200 Jawans and 91 civilians in terror
incidents in the state. This is almost double the count when Congress-UPA was
in power. 1343 ceasefire violations have taken place and 12 direct attacks on
our Army, Air Force and security establishment have taken place. The people of
India elected the BJP because it was perceived as a stronger deterrent to such
mayhem, but unfortunately, due to its political thirst of power, it has failed
the people’s mandate and endangered National Security. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>It
is an unwritten convention in Jammu and Kashmir politics, that a national party
plays an important role in the formation of the Government, so that India’s
core interests remain intact. BJP has miserably faltered on that count. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-46984394032274167442017-04-29T15:43:00.001-07:002017-04-29T15:48:43.536-07:00Reimagining Liberal Values of India <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkM7xzob1lQaNUAQyTBCvrw2-s4Uell06ttF0ma-nifMloJ_HtU-FgASGRum-d-JmCHLppxel5O2ZfPBO9jxjAeovRlRx7q9nrofjFfcz5TeNj7dbxrEkSrdGoBjLH5XcTXptntyfrWUw/s1600/blog+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkM7xzob1lQaNUAQyTBCvrw2-s4Uell06ttF0ma-nifMloJ_HtU-FgASGRum-d-JmCHLppxel5O2ZfPBO9jxjAeovRlRx7q9nrofjFfcz5TeNj7dbxrEkSrdGoBjLH5XcTXptntyfrWUw/s400/blog+pic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
<i>There is an urgent need to present a set of pragmatic, doable and understandable liberal ideas to the people of India, otherwise ‘We, the Liberals’, will fail the makers of Modern India. </i></h2>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
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<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I am an Architect by qualification, practiced for 5 years in one of the best-known architectural firms of India. Was good in what I did. Later, moved to Political Communications. Although, no one in my family is remotely associated with active politics, but I was always interested in politics- Congress party in particular, because the one person, which inspired me the most at the time of my ideological baptism, was Sonia Gandhi. My understanding of socio-political events began when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister, and the Congress was out of power. Every event which unfolded in front of me, be it the ‘India Shining’ campaign or the Tehelka Scandal or be it the 2002 Gujarat Riots- all had an indelible impact on my political conscience. I studied Architecture in Gujarat, and have lived there for 5 years, so I have some idea of the state, which was engulfed in extreme right wing Hindutva propaganda, following the 2002 Gujarat carnage.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">This year, Sonia Gandhi, </span>completes 20 years in active politics and I complete 20 years of constantly following her journey. Without any political biases, I can say that- in 10 years during UPA, her contribution along with the then Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh was immense in the field of social empowerment, removing poverty and hunger and economic growth.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />In that period, we did not have vigilante groups telling us what to eat and what not to eat, the fringe did not become the mainstream then, we did not have government funded ‘Anti-Romeo’ squads creating ruckus whenever they found a girl and a boy moving in public together. During that very period, we did not have innocent people lynched if they were transporting cattle or Dalit students committing suicide because the university management boycotted them on caste basis.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />We did not have influencers dance to the tune of the incumbent and neither did we have the mainstream media shamelessly following the instructions of the ruling party.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />The main issues which captured the imagination of the people and the discourse in general were issues ranging from the National Advisory Council to Special Economic Zone, from the Nuclear Deal, on which the UPA -1 Government almost gave up power to Lokpal and perceived corruption on which UPA-2 was voted out.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />The mainstream discourse was hardly about <i>Gaumata</i>, Beef, <i>Mandir</i>, Romeos, Love Jihad or <i>Azaan</i>. These issues were at the best left to the already sidelined Sangh Parivar and the fringe on both the sides of the spectrum. During those 10 years, we never heard, people getting lynched by vigilante groups in the name of cow protection, neither did we hear about leaders of the ruling party calling Godse, a patriot.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />We all know, that during that period, the sidelined and fragmented elements of Sangh Parivar, indulged into suspected and proven activities of terrorism, symptoms of which were first discovered by a now martyred police officer named Hemant Karkare.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />The moot point for invoking that decade (2004-14) was that even though it was not a perfect time for India, the mainstream agenda was not at all bigotry and sectarianism.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />The ‘Argumentative Indian’ discussed, deliberated and debated about issues which mattered us- Right to Information, Space odysseys like Chandrayaan & Mangalyaan, Petrol deregulation, Inflation, Lokpal, SEZ’s, Global Financial Meltdown and how India is dealing with it, GDP Growth, Forest Rights Act, Food Security, AADHAAR, FDI in Retail, Nirbhaya and so on. Criticism was part of our discourse and the political commentators, civil society and the media left no stone unturned in actively taking on the Government of the day on these issues.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />In the last three years, the so called ‘Argumentative Indian’ is talking more about Jingoism, Beef, Cow Slaughter, Raamzaada and Haraamzaada (sic), Love Jihad, Religious Demographics, Mandir-Masjid, Azaan, Invoking ‘Soldiers at the border’ at the drop of a hat, Intolerance and so on.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />One can blame the media and the commentators for not questioning the Government on the real issues which face the country- of jobs, of rampant unemployment, of fudging GDP numbers, of agrarian crises, of a flawed Pakistan policy, of endangering India’s National Security, of destroying our forests in the name of mindless development, of benefiting its crony friends in every which way possible, of denigrating almost all Institutions, of massive failures in economic policies and on the Foreign Policy and so on. These things are being conveniently brushed under the carpet by a suave media management and public relations strategy of the Government that keeps the media on its leash.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />I personally feel that, although the media and other ‘independent’ institutions can be given a fair share of blame for brazenly and almost shamelessly batting for the ruling dispensation, the blame should be shared by us – Liberals also.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />The Congress party has raised various issues on the public forum- almost on all important issues. Be it the scams indulged by the BJP ruled states or be it the assault of institutions (including the judiciary) or be it on the economic policy front or on the front of securing our borders and fighting Naxalism. Be it on Pakistan or on the mismanagement of the railways. Be it on the Land Acquisition Act or on the non appointment of Lokpal. Be it the NIA going soft on Sanghi Terror cases or on the question of atrocities on Dalits. But somehow, it has not been able to join the liberal voices in cohesion to take on the Government.</span></h3>
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<h3>
‘We, the Liberal’ voices of India, have somehow failed to set a liberal idea in the discourse, that could capture the imagination of the ordinary Indian.</h3>
<h3>
<br />A set of ideas which might be able to influence the citizens of India, more than the ideas which are right now presented by the Right Wing BJP.</h3>
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<br />A set of ideas which influence the powerful young electorate so much so that they reject the ideas of bigotry, fundamentalism or the idea of India as a theocratic nation.</h3>
<h3>
<br />A set of ideas, which repackage the ideals on which the bedrock of Modern India is built upon by our founding fathers.<br />A set of liberal ideas, so strong enough to influence the hearts and minds of people, that they realize that sectarianism can never be an answer to economic progress and real jobs.</h3>
<h3>
<br />The amplification of such ideas is a pre requisite to save the foundation of India. The Congress, which under Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh brought the golden age of Rights based paradigm in this country during UPA, can be the only vehicle on which these ideas can be mounted. We, in the Congress party need to present powerful solutions, alternatives, a solid vision, a fresh agenda in front of the people. </h3>
<h3>
<br />This new manifesto should be a workable, pragmatic, doable, concrete and robust, so as to replace the present crass bigotry which has crept into our society. Liberals have to take the lead in reimagining a new agenda. If we do not contemporize the ideals on which India’s Constitution is built and present it as an alternative, we might fail the makers of Modern India.</h3>
<h3>
<br />As Tagore would say,</h3>
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<br />“Where the world has not been broken up into fragments<br />By narrow domestic walls……”</h3>
<h3>
<br />“Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way<br />Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit….”</h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><h3 style="text-align: justify;">
My Father, Let My Country Awake.</h3>
</span></h3>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-35960253071594664852017-02-14T05:43:00.001-08:002017-02-14T05:45:04.052-08:00How Demonetisation has Abetted the Fake Currency Racket<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaEfxcB1w1c-XqijerCRARcMM4wqI-74bpLLRThsC8E6m6iVXKRdxc0zYBjqNEmHQ_7qjKZDPob6JBMG8cdcW_RqHRZDrq92GdN26jX4vorWzO3c6qdwq_h8ELFo9LViffk1G6CsYNE8/s1600/647__021317031542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaEfxcB1w1c-XqijerCRARcMM4wqI-74bpLLRThsC8E6m6iVXKRdxc0zYBjqNEmHQ_7qjKZDPob6JBMG8cdcW_RqHRZDrq92GdN26jX4vorWzO3c6qdwq_h8ELFo9LViffk1G6CsYNE8/s400/647__021317031542.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On
November 8, 2016, when the Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the
withdrawal of the legal tender of currency notes of denominations of Rs 500 and
Rs 1000- he claimed that this exercise would prevent the funding of terrorism
by the use of fake notes. Substantial part of his speech emphasized that the aim
of this decision was to end the circulation of fake notes and thereby curb
terror funding. Barely two months down
the line, it has now emerged that this bogey of Shri Modi, which the common man
believed and stood in long queues for is a big fat lie. As per various media
reports and recent arrests, it has now surfaced that Pakistan-based
counterfeiters have come out with fake Rs 2000 notes which were pushed by
smugglers through the porous India-Bangladesh border. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">The
latest seizures were made on February 8 in Murshidabad from one Azizur Rahman
(26), who belongs to Malda in West Bengal. Rahman, who was carrying 40 fake
notes of Rs 2,000 denomination, told investigators that they had been printed
in Pakistan, allegedly with the help of the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI),
and had been smuggled across the border from Bangladesh.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even
as the 125 crore people of India were queuing up in lines infront of banks, facing
every hardship possible, believing the solemn words of Modi, who promised to ‘fight
terrorism and fake notes’, the ISI was printing fake notes and smuggling it to
India. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even as more than 120 plus people
died because of the unending chaos and distress unleashed by demonetisation,
the deep state in Pakistan which is inimical to India was planning their next
move by copying 11 out of 17 features of the new notes and readying the counterfeit
currency to be circulated for abetting terror.</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even
as the common man struggled to withdraw his/her own hard earned money from the
banks in Rs 2000 denomination, Pakistan’s ISI only required half the quantity
and half the speed to counterfeit the same amount of notes to fund terror in
India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
announcing the unwitting decision of demonetisation, Modi had stressed <b><i>“Terrorism
is a frightening threat. So many have lost their lives because of it. But have
you ever thought about how these terrorists get their money? Enemies from
across the border run their operations using fake currency notes. This has been
going on for years. Many times, those using fake 500 and 1,000 rupee notes have
been caught and many such notes have been seized.”</i></b> But the recent
arrests of in Murshidabad and Malda have busted this bubble of Shri Modi. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>In his 4205 word 'Address to the Nation' announcing Demonetisation, atleast 250 words were solely dedicated to fighting fake currency and terrorism</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Shockingly,
the seized notes have showed that at least 11 of the 17 security features in
the new Rs 2,000 notes had been replicated. They included the transparent area,
watermark, Ashoka Pillar emblem, the letters ‘Rs 2000’ on the left, the
guarantee clause with the RBI governor’s signature and the denomination number
in Devanagari on the front, the report says. According to experts, the motif of
<i>Mangalayan,</i> the Swachh Bharat logo and the year of printing had been copied on
the reverse side. Although the print and paper quality of the seized
counterfeits was poor, they resembled genuine notes, it says. Besides, the
seized notes had the water mark and a crackling sound, similar to genuine
currency, various media reports say. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It
is important to note that the Union Finance Ministry had informed a
Parliamentary Committee that smuggling of fake currency has totally stopped
post demonetisation and the tax department has seized Rs 515 crore in cash,
including Rs 114 crore of new currency notes, up to January 10. Tall claims of Modi
and his Ministers that ‘fake currency circulation is an issue of the past’ have
however evaporated in thin air. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
grave National Security threat has now emerged and a serious situation has
precipitated due to this arbitrary step of demonetisation. Terrorists and the
ISI who was printing a certain amount of Rs 1000 currency notes now have to
print just half the quantity of Rs 2000 notes of the same amount. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
largest share of the Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) that circulates in India
is believed to be originating not from nondescript local presses inside the
country, but from high-grade, state-owned minting factories in Pakistan. There
is a mountain of evidence, made public
by international agencies including the National Investigation Agency (NIA),
Financial Action Task Force (FATF), and Interpol have pointed fingers at the
Government of Pakistan for creating and sustaining a transnational FICN racket
that spans from West Asia to Southeast Asia. A day after the demonetisation
policy was made public, Kiren Rijiju, the Union minister of state for Home
Affairs, boastfully stated that the <b><i>“the printing press in Karachi and Peshawar
will now be jobless” as a result of demonetisation</i></b>” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>However, RBI
officials on record had confirmed earlier that the <a href="http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/No-time-to-add-new-security-features-in-notes-says-official/article16443665.ece">new
notes do not carry any new security features.</a></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
addition, till date, the Government of India through the Security Printing and
Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL), imports a bulk of the paper used
in minting currency notes from European companies like Louisenthal (Germany),
De la Rue (United Kingdom), Crane (Sweden,) and Arjo Wiggins (France and
Netherlands). So does Pakistan. India imports the OVI Intaglio security ink — a
distinctive security component of every currency note — from SICPA, a Swiss
company that manufactures high-performance security ink; and it is a known fact
that SICPA also deals with Pakistan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Therefore, it is fair to say that the Modi
Government by its demonetisation decision has effectively abetted the
circulation of fake notes,</b> instead of preventing it. Now the counterfeit currency
printing presses in Pakistan can print the same amount of money in lesser
numbers which is much easier to smuggle, thereby cheating the people of India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It
is important to draw the attention of the people of India to this humongous
blunder committed by PM Modi and his Government. Let Narendra Modi voice
another ‘address to the nation’ and publically apologize to the people of India
for endangering India’s National Security apparatus and inflicting such misery
and pain to the 125 cr people of India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-31092617174033163612016-08-30T23:52:00.001-07:002016-08-30T23:58:21.837-07:00The Nationalism Charade<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">"Jingoism,
racism, fear, religious fundamentalism: these are the ways of appealing to
people if you’re trying to organize a mass base of support for policies that
are really intended to crush them."<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">- Noam Chomsky</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
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<br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. At the end of its half term, the Narendra Modi Government may be still cruising steadily in perception, but in reality the people of India have lost faith in this Government. Rapid signs of disillusionment are being witnessed on ground, in conversations with people and in the nature of the discourse. To its credit (or discredit), the Bharatiya Janata Party is aggressively fighting this perception battle with 3 M’s – the management of the media, the management of events and the management of opinion. The economy is in crises, foreign policy is confusing, reforms are stagnant and governance is diminishing. Devoid of any ideas, to keep the momentum of perception, the BJP has now adopted ‘Nationalism’ as the primary tool to set the agenda of the discourse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Bharatiya Janata Party has embarked on a nationwide <i>Tiranga Yatra</i>. Union Ministers and MP's have criss-crossed the entire country, with party workers riding on bikes, many a time seriously violating road safety rules. These party workers, mostly RSS cadre who are accustomed to fly a <i>Bhagva Jhanda</i> (saffron flag) are flaunting large Tricolours shouting slogans of "<i>Bharat Mata Ki Jai</i>". These workers might not have ever imagined that this day would ever come in their lives when the BJP flag or the Sangh flag will be replaced by the National flag. After all their political ancestors always taught them that this was the India's flag was the 'Congress flag' which the Indian National Congress cunningly (sic) imposed on India. This is the reason why the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) never raised the National flag at its headquarters till 2002- precisely for 52 years after independence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Hindumahasabha (the original avatar of the RSS) despised the National Flag. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is on record that any challenge to the National Flag by the Hindutva Right wing elements will not be tolerated.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The RSS want to somehow impose its boxed bigoted ideology of Majoritarianism into the circular ideology of India and its people who believe in Inclusiveness. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When the regressive statements of Hindutvavaadis didn’t cut any ice, when the RSS got encircled in the tolerance debate by majority of right thinking people of this country, when the likes of ‘Love Jihad’ failed, when attempts to foil a ‘National’ vs ‘Anti-National’ debate surrounding JNU and other universities failed, the Sangh Parivar is now latching on to this debate of Nationalism. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Narendra Modi in his recent speech to party workers thundered that "No political party in India has sacrificed as much as the BJP"(sic) . He said that "Nationalists are with the BJP" and BJP stands for Nationalism. Nationalism is the political card which the BJP seems to be waiving these days. In reality, it is not Nationalism, but Jingoism. BJP wants to create a disquisition, wherein it is seen as the most strident political force on nation state issues. The PM’s uncalculated Baluchistan gambit is also an element to bind this discourse. All this is being planned and managed in order to escape the real questions of governance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">However, the people of India are unperturbed. The common man on ground is more concerned about whether he will be able to earn for his family, provide them with basic daily needs and fight the daily battles of sustenance. Who cares about ‘Nationalism’? They worry about the Rs 200/kg Daal and the soaring prices of vegetables. They worry about the education of their children and whether they would be able to afford the medical bills of their parents. Their spirit of nationalism ends there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The BJP’s game plan does not end here. The Hindu Right has always been devoid of credible icons. In the past 30 years, no political party in India has been able to form a single party government at the centre. 2014 elections have provided this golden opportunity of a brute majority to the BJP. The BJP is exploiting this chance like no other. It is virtually robbing the Congress (known for its exemplary role in the Freedom Struggle) of its icons and of its legacy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">First they came for Sardar Patel, when they announced building of that mammoth statue in Gujarat. Then they came for Mahatma Gandhi. The way Gandhi ji is being potrayed in the Swachh Bharat campaign is for the world to see. 100 years of Gandhi ji's Champaran Satyagraha is being observed by the Government next year. Then they came for Babasaheb Ambedkar. The Dalit plank of the BJP might not be working because of the upper caste Hindutva hegemony prevalent in their rank and file, but the BJP is trying hard to appropriate Babasaheb and play the backwards card. Now they are even coming for Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. They officially celebrated 125 birth anniversary of Nehru and the Tiranga Yatra even has banners carrying his portraits. In fact, the Government is also celebrating the 125 year Birth Anniversary of Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan (known as the frontier Gandhi) this year. History records all of them as Congressmen. Period. </span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Jingoism is only one part of the reality. The other one is to instil fear at local level. Vigilantism has become the order of the day. It is not just limited to the menace of <i>Gaurakshaks</i> and the Bajrang Dal activists or the beef controversy; it has now reincarnated itself into every aspect of our lives. The nanny state is trying hard with its official and unofficial dictates’ – what should we eat, what should we wear, what should we see and even what should we speak. Those who do not conform to the state or its vigilantes are branded as ‘Anti-Nationals’. The recent cases of actress turned politician Divya Spandana, the proclamation by the Culture Minister on skirts and the <i>Sanskari </i>Censor Board’s antics are few of the hundreds of examples in which fear of the nanny state has entered in our lives. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Two decades ago, the BJP adopted Religious Fundamentalism as its core ideology in the form of Ram Janmabhoomi Andolan; now when it has reaped the political benefits of the same; it has adopted Jingoism in the form of Nationalism and Fear to rule the masses. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This is the unfortunate truth. </span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-38428384812891179702016-05-05T07:54:00.003-07:002016-05-05T08:14:06.240-07:00Why BJP is digging its own grave by raking up the Agusta Westland Deal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLH2rFcD_6AgDqf7NN0aZErBy_0AkLfe1XS9KPSqErdMTpTKTBVi5J7fKneJmmUJ0YYGq0SsVePiLrce2lAoGB1txzk94lXbntIL0oRBsaayLa_w_nvYKGXRFOw-DOZ-TMqE0WKfTxnoo/s1600/ChHZ5DlWgAIJ2SB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLH2rFcD_6AgDqf7NN0aZErBy_0AkLfe1XS9KPSqErdMTpTKTBVi5J7fKneJmmUJ0YYGq0SsVePiLrce2lAoGB1txzk94lXbntIL0oRBsaayLa_w_nvYKGXRFOw-DOZ-TMqE0WKfTxnoo/s640/ChHZ5DlWgAIJ2SB.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
heated debate took place in the Rajya Sabha on the alleged corruption and
irregularities in the VVIP Chopper Deal (Agusta Westland Deal) between the treasury
benches and the opposition. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Many
important points were made in the Parliament by various members, especially
from the opposition benches. Congress leaders laid out authenticated facts,
while the Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar read out a 45 minute long written
statement which looked as if it was a monologue with no concrete answers to the
‘Short Duration Debate’ at hand where various members across party lines had
raised concerns ranging from National Security to Defence Procurement Policy to
the inability of the present Modi Government to nail down any one in the
bribery deal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Many
opposition parties and BJP allies cautioned the Government and the BJP to
exercise restraint and take action against the culprits in the scam rather than
just ranting against the Congress party. Sharad Yadav from the JD (U) used a
very earthy term <i>“BJP Ke Log Sirf Gaal
Baja Rahe Hai” </i>(BJP is only shouting) and urged the Government to ‘act more
and talk less’. Ram Gopal Yadav from the SP, Mayawati from the BSP and even
Sanjay Raut from the Shiv Sena echoed the same sentiment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It
is the Modi Government which is in power since the past two years, and instead
of bringing the culprits to the book, they are just shouting from all forums
and telling the Congress leaders to come clean on the issue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP
President Amit Shah goes on repeating “<i>Ulta
Chor Kotwal Ko Daate</i>”- The “Kotwal” from 2004-2014 was the UPA Government-
and it took every action necessary in order to bring the culprits to the book.
Now since the ‘Kotwal’ has changed – It is Shri Modi’s NDA Government since the
past two years, we want to ask what steps they have done to punish the
‘culprits’ of this deal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Does
Shri Amit Shah, go against his masters ‘Saheb’ in bringing Former Air Chief
Marshall, Shri S.P. Tyagi to book- who is the main accused in this scam? What
is the connection between Air Chief Marshall, Shri S.P. Tyagi and Shri Ajit
Doval (present NSA & Director of Foundation) as also Shri Nripendra Mishra,
PS to Prime Minister? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Did
Vivekananda Foundation take any bribes or kickbacks on the pretext of Shri
Tyagi being its board member? Did Shri Ajit Doval also help the Vivekananda
Foundation through these funds? Why doesn’t Shri Modi – who is ‘Kotwal’ now,
order a CBI enquiry into the funds of Vivekananda Foundation?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Infact,
the Defence Minister mislead the August House when he parroted incorrect
information on the floor of the House regarding the deal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Lets look at some of the hard facts in the
entire saga surrounding the Agusta Deal</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">STATEMENT OF FACTS OF <st1:city w:st="on">AUGUSTA</st1:city>
<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">WESTLAND</st1:place></st1:city> CASE</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1(i) August, 1999<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> Indian
Air Force (IAF) proposed replacement of MI-8 VIP Helicopters on account of
severe operational constraints and completion of total technical life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> (ii) March,
2002</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Global
Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued. Four vendors responded. Many helicopter
manufacturers including Russian Helicopter MI-172 and Augusta Westland etc.
could not bid as they did not complete the mandatory Operational Requirements
(ORs).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> (iii) 19.11.2003<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Principal
Secretary to then Prime Minister, Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee took a meeting. In
the meeting, it was decided to keep the Operational Requirements (ORs) at an
altitude of 4,500 metres against the original 6,000 metres.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> (iv) 22.12.2003 <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Principal
Secretary</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> to then Prime Minister, Shri Atal
Behari Vajpayee wrote a <b>letter dated 22.12.2003</b> to Air Chief pointing
out that PMO and SPG should have been consulted while framing mandatory
Operational Requirement (ORs). He suggested that Chief of Air Staff and Defence
Secretary should review and draw up realistic mandatory requirements.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> (v) March,
2005 to September, 2006<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Operational
Requirements (ORs) were deliberated at length between IAF, NSA, SPG, PMO and
Ministry of Defence. Consequently, an operational altitude of 4,500 metres as
also other configurations were arrived at as earlier decided. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">For
reference to <b>1(i) to (v) above,</b> please see <b>paras 1 to 6</b> of PIB
press release dated <b>14.02.2013</b> of Defence Ministry</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Source: <a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a>
)</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">2. 27.09.2006<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Request
for Proposal (RFP) was issued for 12 Helicopters to six vendors.Three vendors
namely (a) M/s Sikorsky, USA; (b) M/s Augusta Westland, UK and (c) M/s
Rosboroneexport, Russia responded to the RFP. <st1:city w:st="on">Rosboroneexport</st1:city>,
<st1:country-region w:st="on">Russia</st1:country-region> did not submit
earnest money deposit or sign the Integrity Pact leaving the other two i.e. <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Sikorsky</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">USA</st1:country-region></st1:place>
and Augusta Westland, UK.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">3. 08.02.2010<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">After
negotiations and approval from Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), Contract
for 12 AW-101 VVIP helicopters was awarded to Augusta Westland, UK. <b>Contract
with Augusta Westland categorically envisaged as follows:-</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(i)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> It included specific contractual <b>provisions
against ‘bribery’ and use of ‘undue influence’. Article 22 </b>of the Contract
dealt with penalty for use of ‘undue influence’. <b>Article 23 </b>of the
Contract contained a complete prohibition on the seller regarding dealings
through an agent or payment of any agency commission to any individual or firm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(ii)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> In addition to the above provision, Augusta
Westland had also signed <b>‘Integrity Pact’</b> with the Government of India.
Under the ‘Integrity Pact’, bidder committed itself to take all measures
necessary to prevent corrupt practices, unfair means and illegal activities
during any stage of the bid or during any pre or post contract stage. Any
breach thereof would result in forfeiture of earnest money, performance bond,
cancellation of contract etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">This was
done to ensure complete transparency and integrity of the process.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
see <b>para-18</b> of PIB press release dated <b>14.02.2013</b> of Ministry of
Defence </span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-</span> <span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a>)
</span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">4. February, 2012 and 16.07.2012<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">News
reports of unethical dealings surfaced in February, 2012. Defence Ministry of
the then UPA government directed its Embassy to seek relevant information. As
no information was forthcoming, Embassy in <st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region>
was asked and it made a formal request on 16.07.2012 to <st1:city w:st="on"><b>Naples</b></st1:city><b>
(<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region></st1:place>)
Prosecutor’s Office. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
see PIB press release dated <b>12.12.2012</b></span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> of Ministry of Defence(<a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=90429"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=90429</span></a>)
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">and <b>para-26</b> of PIB press release
dated <b>14.02.2013 </b></span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">of
Ministry of Defence (<a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a>)
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQjWx4cwGiQrkztv6jiSxtt5zD0Coq2sB-doLCpJ8YhozwBFihcDqvOIFSb-PrrCHZ37QaCpfRBpyWp3eae5X7RPahEr1xOEvynsKwktmSkf5s_nmnccEEj-8g-IoOEU1hWDOFIQ_L-Y/s1600/annexure+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQjWx4cwGiQrkztv6jiSxtt5zD0Coq2sB-doLCpJ8YhozwBFihcDqvOIFSb-PrrCHZ37QaCpfRBpyWp3eae5X7RPahEr1xOEvynsKwktmSkf5s_nmnccEEj-8g-IoOEU1hWDOFIQ_L-Y/s640/annexure+2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nbQfXck7q2a8x5AA0JXA4a-EF1YVAGm5iHNG51J3bX4Iv7zPrW5q77W2tVKUaYRVu89hwjxJyigjdDZGcVaKq5VZ3R1MypJOlALY22q6frHvvv870JnK5FFhaOpsV0_RxIBWZBClQe4/s1600/annexure+3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nbQfXck7q2a8x5AA0JXA4a-EF1YVAGm5iHNG51J3bX4Iv7zPrW5q77W2tVKUaYRVu89hwjxJyigjdDZGcVaKq5VZ3R1MypJOlALY22q6frHvvv870JnK5FFhaOpsV0_RxIBWZBClQe4/s640/annexure+3.PNG" width="606" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">5. 19.04.2012 and July, 2012<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">On
19.04.2012, Ministry of Defence wrote to <b>CBI and Enforcement Directorate
(ED)</b> for examining the issue as news reports were suggesting allegations of
corruption against various persons. <b>In July, 2012;</b> Enforcement
Directorate (ED) informed Ministry of Defence that it was enquiring into the
allegations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please see <b>para-31</b> of PIB press release dated <b>14.02.2013</b>
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-<a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a>)
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">6. November, 2012 and January, 2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">In
November, 2012; Director, Income Tax (Investigation) wrote to Defence Ministry
seeking information on allegations against possible middlemen. <b>In January,
2013;</b> Ministry of Defence conveyed the entire facts to Income Tax
authorities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
see <b>para-32</b> of PIB press release dated <b>14.02.2013</b> of Ministry of
Defence </span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">- <a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a>)
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">7. 12.02.2013 and 25.02.2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">News was
reported with regard to arrest of Mr. G. Orsi, CEO of Finmecanica/Augusta
Westland for financial malpractices in procurement of 12 helicopters for Indian
Air Force.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">On
receipt of news reports, <b>Defence Ministry asked CBI to register a case. CBI
registered a case on 12.02.2013 against six companies</b> i.e. M/s <st1:city w:st="on">Finmecanica</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region>;
Augusta Westland, UK; IDS, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Tunisia</st1:country-region>;
Infotech Design System, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Mauritius</st1:country-region>;
IDS Infotech Limited, <st1:city w:st="on">Chandigarh</st1:city> and Aeromatrix
Infotech Solution, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">India</st1:country-region></st1:place>.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Finally
on 25.02.2013,</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> <b>CBI registered a
Preliminary Enquiry (PE) </b>in the matter. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
refer to reply dated <b>06.03.2013</b> to <b>Parliament Question No. 961</b> as
also reply dated <b>11.12.2013</b> to <b>Parliament Question No.669</b></span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">)</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelsFnibq7dyuheadLujYxHDQg_4DAweJ-_2Hz-5hPlOCSTTWIdmM9xqwoFy8351Aurta-w0AdbzOKUiuaRkawLiqRnOis29kzuqJreqFFnohxIuUFw4iWMRbHkn9admIiS7DUILmJdpk/s1600/annexure+4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelsFnibq7dyuheadLujYxHDQg_4DAweJ-_2Hz-5hPlOCSTTWIdmM9xqwoFy8351Aurta-w0AdbzOKUiuaRkawLiqRnOis29kzuqJreqFFnohxIuUFw4iWMRbHkn9admIiS7DUILmJdpk/s640/annexure+4.PNG" width="572" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">On <b>13.02.2013,
</b>Defence Ministry also asked the Embassy in Rome to send a factual report
qua arrest of Mr. G. Orsi as also nature of charges framed and other relevant
details besides taking up the matter with the Judge for the Preliminary
investigation. <b>On 15.02.2013,</b> Indian Embassy in Rome forwarded a
response from the Judge pointing out that as investigations are at a
preliminary stage, same are covered by ‘Secrecy’ in terms of Article 329 of
Code of Penal Procedure in Italy. It was also added that as Secrecy obligations
are over, they would examine a new request from India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
refer to reply dated <b>11.03.2013</b> to <b>Parliament</b> <b>Question No.
2147</b></span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">)</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgge55k7VTEFj0-qWhrqKPk1XRWUsk3uJNjNjEt0tCtd52pLIu2lA-Nl-3_w3noM9Bz2Ntbg8q8dmUSUzaf5jN2iyXw-RvZAWoyYoQZwMgue6nBXtSDAX33Rcqw0P_0Ahyphenhyphencg8enIWwmaNM/s1600/annexure+5.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgge55k7VTEFj0-qWhrqKPk1XRWUsk3uJNjNjEt0tCtd52pLIu2lA-Nl-3_w3noM9Bz2Ntbg8q8dmUSUzaf5jN2iyXw-RvZAWoyYoQZwMgue6nBXtSDAX33Rcqw0P_0Ahyphenhyphencg8enIWwmaNM/s640/annexure+5.PNG" width="530" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">8. 15.02.2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Show
Cause Notice</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> was given to Augusta Westland
qua <b>cancellation of the Contract.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">It was
also decided to <b>(a)</b> put on hold the operation of the Contract relating
to procurement of helicopters; and <b>(b)</b> stop further payment to Augusta
Westland.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">It was
further decided that no contract negotiation was to be held with Augusta
Westland in any capital procurement case. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
refer to reply dated <b>11.03.2013</b> to <b>Parliament</b> <b>Question No.
2259</b></span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_afHkGfHhlQU8Nf4oV57jhLPabxAXGbMlNNYxX9caKtfOMyJPTbE9WnMp4ZqyrobEt7zUzDC6B9eGttcvZ5BUeuIurkqlOrOD_mS5vmnTMYZs35sjiCk7G6HDOGDrtEht1y0gpod8Us/s1600/annexure+6.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_afHkGfHhlQU8Nf4oV57jhLPabxAXGbMlNNYxX9caKtfOMyJPTbE9WnMp4ZqyrobEt7zUzDC6B9eGttcvZ5BUeuIurkqlOrOD_mS5vmnTMYZs35sjiCk7G6HDOGDrtEht1y0gpod8Us/s640/annexure+6.PNG" width="522" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">9. 20.02.2013 to
11.12.2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Pursuant
to Show Cause dated 15.02.2013 by GoI to Augusta Westland for cancellation of
Contract, multiple correspondence and replies dated 20.02.2013, 04.03.2013,
11.03.2013, 18.03.2013, 10.04.2013, 16.04.2013, 04.10.2013, 20.11.2013,
25.11.2013 and 11.12.2013 were exchanged between the two parties i.e. GoI and
Augusta Westland vis-à-vis cancellation of the Contract. In course thereof,
even personal hearing was granted by GoI to Augusta Westland on 20.11.2013.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">10. 27.02.2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">The then
Defence Minister, Shri A.K. Antony <b>proposed to set up a JPC to examine
Augusta Westland case by moving a motion in Rajya Sabha. </b>BJP as also the
then Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Shri Arun Jaitley refused the offer
by saying that it is an exercise in futility. <b>BJP demanded a Supreme
Court-monitored investigation. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">11. May, 2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Government
of India received the <b>first set of papers from Italy regarding Augusta
Westland including </b>copy of search and seizure order issued by the Judge for
the preliminary investigation, copies of certain contracts entered by a
shareholder of Augusta with various entities in Tunisia, India etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
refer to <b>reply dated 08.05.2013</b> to <b>Parliament</b> <b>Question No.
4540</b></span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YhBNE_g1H24TXCkCpAwQLmQPQJ-Vreig5yotlYyvjFkFKSDIN1E00roCUyrE_-61dxZa79K9_OR670QZgcWhKpn_bRocDfbco-_QQHqZde2Ob15gxez9q9c_UiIhKW2n6-9hS5_v2UQ/s1600/annexure+9.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YhBNE_g1H24TXCkCpAwQLmQPQJ-Vreig5yotlYyvjFkFKSDIN1E00roCUyrE_-61dxZa79K9_OR670QZgcWhKpn_bRocDfbco-_QQHqZde2Ob15gxez9q9c_UiIhKW2n6-9hS5_v2UQ/s640/annexure+9.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">12. July to
December, 2013<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">‘Letter
Rogatory’</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> was issued to various countries
including Mauritius, Tunisia, Italy etc. <b>by ED and CBI.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
refer to <b>reply dated 19.08.2013</b> to <b>Parliament Question No. 1977</b></span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UJBN55WYrd6np2VrCV8Yyc_fR15axoPjaDKoY5qxd0wnAaCCy7z-9pcFJLCw4ZsbtDF2-s4ZPlteymfiP-Oll-9ZrrBEcgPIsTt1XzohFt_u6370Nx-fEjUyKPgpvqOOsSElHkTQzlo/s1600/annexure+10.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UJBN55WYrd6np2VrCV8Yyc_fR15axoPjaDKoY5qxd0wnAaCCy7z-9pcFJLCw4ZsbtDF2-s4ZPlteymfiP-Oll-9ZrrBEcgPIsTt1XzohFt_u6370Nx-fEjUyKPgpvqOOsSElHkTQzlo/s640/annexure+10.PNG" width="584" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">This fact
of issuance of ‘Letter Rogatory’ in July, 2013 and December, 2013 by CBI and ED
has been admitted by Government of India also as recently as on 29.04.2016 in a
PIB press release</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (<a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=142592"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=142592</span></a>
)</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">13. 01.01.2014<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">The then
UPA government <b>terminated the Contract with Augusta Westland.</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Consequent
thereto, the then UPA government proceeded to <b>encash two Indian bank
guarantees amounting to Rs.240 crore</b> approximately.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Further,
a <b>demand </b>was made on <b>Deutsche Bank, Milan, Italy </b>for encashment
of advance bank guarantee. Augusta Westland obtained an interim stay from the
Ordinary Tribunal of Milan, Italy. Government of <st1:country-region w:st="on">India</st1:country-region>
initiated legal proceeded against Augusta Westland in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Milan</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region></st1:place>
for encashment of bank guarantee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(Please
refer to <b>reply dated 05.02.2014</b> to <b>Parliament Question No. 1579</b></span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoK3TR45dxqnfL7F06sjpJwLfk-dcU9-ww_aEI6zzAPRUlLSrMAAXlHnwdU4mr_oKnXbMlzmVUEGicoF2VQTP37PJRAtbsfBzNmeFBpzzMtEXjwSphu5qVfQ9Et936PeM00mxMrteHdQ/s1600/annexure+13.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpoK3TR45dxqnfL7F06sjpJwLfk-dcU9-ww_aEI6zzAPRUlLSrMAAXlHnwdU4mr_oKnXbMlzmVUEGicoF2VQTP37PJRAtbsfBzNmeFBpzzMtEXjwSphu5qVfQ9Et936PeM00mxMrteHdQ/s640/annexure+13.PNG" width="602" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Reference
may also be made to PIB press release dated <b>18.03.2014</b> issued by
Ministry of Defence <b>qua filing of an appeal in Italian court </b>by
Government of India for encashment of bank guarantee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">14. 23.05.2014<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Government
of India <b>won the case on 23.05.2014 for encashment of bank guarantee</b> <b>worth
Euro 2,28,00,00,00 (228 million) in the court at Italy.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Please refer to PIB press release dated <b>25.05.2014</b> of
Ministry of Defence</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">- <a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=105151"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=105151</span></a>
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">A copy of the news report of </span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/after-losing-bank-bond-agusta-pins-hope-on-arbitration-114052600019_1.html"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Business Standard</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> specifically mentioning the <b>amount of Euro 228 million</b>
</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">corroborates the same)</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">15. 26.05.2016<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Shri
Narendra Modi was sworn in as Prime Minister. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Now
let us look at what action did Congress led UPA took in the case </span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">CONCRETE ACTION TAKEN BY UPA IN
AUGUSTA CASE.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. UPA
government ensured complete transparency, accountability and integrity of the
process of global tendering leading to award of contract for 12 AW-101 VVIP
helicopters to Augusta Westland.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Contract with Augusta Westland categorically envisaged as
follows:- <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(i)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> It
included specific contractual <b>provisions against ‘bribery’ and use of ‘undue
influence’. Article 22 </b>of the Contract dealt with penalty for use of ‘undue
influence’. <b>Article 23 </b>of the Contract contained a complete prohibition
on the seller regarding dealings through an agent or payment of any agency
commission to any individual or firm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(ii)</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> In
addition to the above provision, Augusta Westland had also signed <b>‘Integrity
Pact’</b> with the Government of India. Under the ‘Integrity Pact’, bidder
committed itself to take all measures necessary to prevent corrupt practices,
unfair means and illegal activities during any stage of the bid or during any
pre or post contract stage. Any breach thereof would result in forfeiture of
earnest money, performance bond, cancellation of contract etc. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please
see <b>para-18</b> of PIB press release dated <b>14.02.2013</b> of Ministry of
Defence </span><a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237" style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"><span style="text-decoration: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a><span style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.5in;">)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. UPA
government asked for an investigation into allegations of corruption by CBI,
Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax. UPA government also made a request
to <st1:city w:st="on">Naples</st1:city> (<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region></st1:place>) Prosecutor’s Office for
information and documents into the allegations against officials of Augusta
Westland. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On 19.04.2012</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">, Ministry of Defence wrote to <b>CBI
and Enforcement Directorate (ED)</b> for examining the allegations of
corruption.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In July 2012,</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Enforcement Directorate (ED)
informed Ministry of Defence that it was enquiring into the allegations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In January 2013</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">, Ministry of Defence also conveyed
the facts of the case to the then Director, Income Tax (Investigation). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please
see <b>paras-31 and 32</b> of PIB press release dated <b>14.02.2013</b> of
Ministry of Defence </span><a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237" style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"><span style="text-decoration: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a><span style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.5in;">)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On 16.07.2012,</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Indian Embassy in Italy made a
formal request to <b>Naples (Italy) Prosecutor’s Office</b> for information on
unethical dealings in Augusta Westland sale of helicopters to Indian Air Force.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Please see PIB press release dated <b>12.12.2012</b>
and <b>14.02.2013 (para-26)</b> of Ministry of Defence </span><a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237" style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"><span style="text-decoration: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a><span style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.5in;">)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3. UPA directed
registration of CBI case.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As news came with regard to arrest of
Mr. G. Orsi, CEO of Finmecanica/Augusta Westland; Defence Ministry asked CBI to
register a case on <b>12.02.2013</b> against six companies. On <b>25.02.2013</b>,
CBI registered a preliminary enquiry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Please refer to reply dated <b>06.03.2013</b>
to <b>Parliament Question No. 961</b> as also reply dated <b>11.12.2013</b> to <b>Parliament
Question No.669)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4. UPA
government issued a Show Cause Notice dated 15.02.2013 and cancelled the
contract with Augusta Westland on</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>01.01.2014</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>In</b>
<b>March 2013 itself, UPA also decided that no contract negotiation was to be
held with Augusta Westland in any capital procurement case.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please
refer to reply dated <b>11.03.2013</b> to <b>Parliament Question No. 2259)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5. UPA
government sent ‘Letter Rogatory’ to various countries including <st1:country-region w:st="on">Mauritius</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Tunisia</st1:country-region>
and <st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region> in July, 2013 and
December, 2013 after receipt of first set of papers from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region></st1:place> in May, 2013. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please
refer to reply dated <b>08.05.2013</b> to <b>Parliament Question No. 4540</b>
and reply dated <b>19.08.2013 </b>to <b>Parliament Question No. 1977,</b> Issuance
of ‘Letter Rogatory’ in July and December, 2013 has also been admitted by GoI
in their PIB press release dated <b>29.04.2016)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6. UPA
government had even proposed to set up a JPC to examine Augusta Westland case
by moving a motion in Rajya Sabha on 27.02.2013. BJP refused the offer by
demanding a Supreme Court-monitored investigation.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">7. UPA government encashed the two Indian bank guarantees amounting to Rs.240 crore approximately
at the time of termination of contract.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please
refer to reply dated <b>05.02.2014</b> to Parliament Question No.1579)</span><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>UPA
government also demanded encashment of bank guarantee from Deutsche Bank,
Milan, Italy and finally won the appeal in Italian court on 23.05.2014 for
encashment of bank guarantee worth Euro 2,28,00,00,00 (228 million)</b>. </span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">UPA government, thus, recovered
nearly Rs.2,068 crore from Augusta Westland (Rs.240 crore bank guarantee with
Indian banks + Euro 228 million from Deutsche Bank, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Milan</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Italy</st1:country-region></st1:place>),
besides confiscating three helicopters as against a payment of Rs.1,586.66 crore made to Augusta Westland.
Hence, UPA government recovered more money and not a rupee of loss was caused
to public exchequer.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(Please see reply dated <b>16.12.2014</b>
to <b>Parliament Question No. 2559</b>)</span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(B) DID
UPA GOVERNMENT CHANGE THE OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS (ORs) FOR HELICOPTERS BY
REDUCING IT TO 4,500 METRES FROM THE ORIGINAL 6,000 METRES?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. Please see
para-1(i) to (v) of Statement of Facts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. On
19.11.2003, Principal Secretary to the then Prime Minister, Shri Atal Behari
Vajpayee took a meeting. In the meeting, it was decided to keep the <b>‘Operational
Requirements’ (ORs)</b> at an altitude of <b>4,500 metres</b> against original <b>6,000
metres.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>Principal
Secretary</b> to the then Prime Minister - Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee also wrote
a letter dated <b>22.12.2003</b> to the Air Chief pointing out that PMO and SPG
should have been consulted while framing <b>‘Operational Requirements’ (ORs)</b>
besides suggesting that Chief of Air Staff and Defence Secretary should review
and draw up realistic mandatory requirements.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>Between
March, 2015 and September, 2016; ‘Operational Requirements’ (ORs)</b> for VVIP
helicopters were deliberated at length between IAF, NSA, SPG, PMO and Ministry
of Defence. Consequently, an operational altitude ceiling of <b>4,500 metres</b>
and other configurations were arrived at.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please
see <b>paras-1 to 6 </b>of PIB press release dated <b>14.02.2013 </b>of Defence
Ministry </span><a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237" style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"><span style="text-decoration: none;">http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=92237</span></a><span style="font-size: 21.3333px; line-height: 24.5333px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.5in;">)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(C) WHY
WERE ‘FIELD EVALUATION TRIALS’ (FET) OF HELICOPTERS HELD ABROAD? DID IT VIOLATE
THE ‘DEFENCE PROCUREMENT PROCEDURE’ (DPP)?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. Field trials for
Augusta Westland helicopters were held in <st1:country-region w:st="on">UK</st1:country-region>
and for Sikorsky helicopters were held in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">USA</st1:country-region></st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. During last <b>NDA
government (1999-2004), ‘Defence Procurement Procedure - 2002’</b> envisaged
field evaluation trials <b>‘abroad’. (Please refer to para-27 of DPP – 2002<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBgxebg83495PyL_yBisfDOXh8G7WvUEwSG_Mk6S2rdFWwmqDE8pI_jAgT7eCMhaCBrgpSC3Tfh1dA6R6OOOgqyoy_X0xTwKuAnnBahgOe4RRTCtidZTg5-egA1R-CJu7ZDFpOcN5xW4/s1600/DPP2002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBgxebg83495PyL_yBisfDOXh8G7WvUEwSG_Mk6S2rdFWwmqDE8pI_jAgT7eCMhaCBrgpSC3Tfh1dA6R6OOOgqyoy_X0xTwKuAnnBahgOe4RRTCtidZTg5-egA1R-CJu7ZDFpOcN5xW4/s640/DPP2002.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> ‘Defence Procurement
Procedure, 2006’</span></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
applicable to Augusta Westland contract also envisaged trials to be conducted <b>‘abroad’</b>
in vendor’s premises. (<b>Please refer to para-38 of DPP-2006</b>)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qZ7dEUZWOfJUXehOgXCbYRl8hjiUUGEC2mIcGfBMoiyCIBoWeOVyjfjlWv7F_AQDPa0oLdg5rf7xKkbQwo6loJAJDSjJ3QO9EvK71JwlbvVA4pMOcR5fbkyIvfDcxGnA7Y6PmxoRE4A/s1600/DPP2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qZ7dEUZWOfJUXehOgXCbYRl8hjiUUGEC2mIcGfBMoiyCIBoWeOVyjfjlWv7F_AQDPa0oLdg5rf7xKkbQwo6loJAJDSjJ3QO9EvK71JwlbvVA4pMOcR5fbkyIvfDcxGnA7Y6PmxoRE4A/s640/DPP2006.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even during the current Modi government, <b>‘Defence
Procurement Procedure, 2016’</b> envisages conduct of field evaluation trials <b>‘abroad’</b>
in vendor’s premises. (<b>Paras-65 and 66 of DPP -2016)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It is, thus, clear that there is no bar to conduct field
evaluation trials ‘abroad’ either in the previous NDA government or the
Congress government or the current Modi government. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Now
let us see what the Modi Sarkar did in the last two years</span></h3>
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">HOW DID MODI SARKAR PROTECT AUGUSTA WESTLAND?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. Investigation
by CBI/ED/Income Tax has not been concluded in two years of Modi government
establishing laxity and an intent to help Augusta Westland surruptitiously.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In fact, conclusion of CBI investigation
appears to be nowhere close. This is clear from a recent Parliament reply dated
04.03.2016 to Question No. 1359 given by Defence Minister, Shri Manohar
Parrikar, wherein he has clearly admitted that, “Finalisation of investigation
by CBI is dependant upon execution report of the pending letter rogatory from
eight different countries”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> 2. Modi
government undid the process of banning Augusta Westland within a short span of
48 days for completely unexplainable reasons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On 10.02.2014, UPA government
initiated the process for banning/ blacklisting Augusta Westland.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On 03.07.2014, process got completed
and Modi government proceeded to ban Augusta Westland, its parent company –
Finmecanica and other group companies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Immediately thereafter, Modi
government took opinion of Attorney General of India. On 22.08.2014, Modi government
proceeded to undo its own order by permitting Finmecanica/Augusta Westland and
their group companies to participate in defence contracts as (a)
sub-contractor; and (b) supplier to the contracting party. A copy of the order
dated 22.08.2014 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3. Modi
government has not blacklisted Augusta Westland or its group companies. Order
dated 03.07.2014 only imposes a ban on Augusta Westland and group companies
during the pendency of ongoing CBI investigation dated 25.02.2013.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> This
is apparent from Parliament reply dated 18.07.2014 to Question No. 1417 given
by the then Minister for Defence, Shri Arun Jaitley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> What
is important to note is that Parliament do not reply dated 18.07.2014 clearly
establishes that is Augusta Westland or its group companies debarred nor have
they been suspended indefinitely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4. BJP
President, Shri Amit Shah described Augusta Westland a ‘bogus company’. Modi
government granted Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval on
08.10.2015 to the same company i.e. Augusta Westland. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> What
is the reason for granting FIPB approval for joint venture to a tainted company
like Augusta Westland, which is under CBI scanner on charges of bribery? This
fact has not been explained till today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5. Modi
government has also permitted Augusta Westland to be part of ‘Make-in-India’
programme and participate in ‘Aero <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">India</st1:place></st1:country-region> Exhibition’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> (Please see
PIB press release dated 03.03.2015)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>Modi government needs to explain the
reasons for its benevolence towards Augusta Westland and acting as its
benefactor.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-14877433275974976352016-04-26T04:25:00.003-07:002016-04-26T20:19:08.767-07:00The Suffering Farmers <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This is the second
consecutive year when India is reeling under severe drought. Nearly 40% of
India’s population is plagued with a grave agrarian and drinking water crises. Over
33 Crore people in 2,55,000 villages in 10 States of India are reeling under
severe drought. If we add States of Bihar, Uttarakhand and Gujarat, which are
also facing drought like conditions, India's population affected by agrarian
and water crisis is nearly 48.27 Crore in 3,00,000 villages encompassing 300
districts i.e. almost 50% of India's 6,38,000 villages and 688 districts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Drinking water and
irrigation crisis has reached even a larger magnitude. India's 91 biggest
reservoirs have only close to 40% of their water storage capacity remaining
i.e. 36 bcm (billion cubic metre) out of total capacity of about 158 bcm. Worst
are the reservoirs in South and West India. 31 big reservoirs in the South
Indian States of Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu have
barely 15% of the normal water storage capacity. 27 reservoirs in
Maharashtra/Gujarat have barely 18% of the normal water storage capacity. In
fact, water capacity in Maharashtra's reservoirs is down to just 3 % of their
capacity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Almost half of India’s
GDP comes from rural areas. About 40 per cent of India’s households engage in
agriculture and within this group, two-thirds are heavily reliant on it. Food
grain producing regions in the country are bearing the brunt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In 2015, the unseasonal
rains and hailstorm in several regions had wiped off Rs 10,000 Crore of Rabi
crops and this year’s below par monsoon and drought has added to the misery.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Recently, 170 eminent
citizens wrote in an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing
stating that the government's response to the massive drought being faced by large
parts of the country "is sadly listless, lacking in both urgency and
compassion". <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Supreme Court of India
also castigated the Modi Sarkar on the way its dealing with the extreme drought
situations in 10 states. It categorically asked the Union Government on “Why it
is not declaring the drought as a National Calamity” and “Why this natural
calamity could not be brought under the Disaster Management Act to release
funds for the welfare of affected families”. While lambasting the apathy of the
Modi Sarkar in dealing with the situation, the apex court sought information on
the number of people and districts affected by drought, as well as the
budgetary allocation for and expenditure of national and state disaster relief
funds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">According to the Union
Agriculture Minister’s own admission, there is a severe drought like situation
in many districts and on an average 90 farmers are committing suicides every
week in the year 2016 itself. The shamelessness of the Modi Government is in
full display when the Union Agriculture Minister Shri Radha Mohan Singh tries
to playdown the effect of this calamity and says that media is exaggerating the
situation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In drought hit
Maharashtra alone, 9 farmers commit suicide per day. As many as 3,228 farmers
committed suicide in Maharashtra in 2015, the highest since 2001, according to
data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on March 4, 2016–that is almost nine farmers
every day. Vidharbha and Marathwada, with 5.7 million farmers, accounted for 83%
of all farmer suicides in Maharashtra in 2015. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rural crisis can be
gauged from the fact the agriculture growth rate is down to 0.2% from 3.7% in
2014-15 under UPA government. Even the spate of farmer's suicides has increased
to an average of 52 deaths per day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Resultant effect is
large scale migration, farmer's suicides, drinking water rationing, food
shortages and a huge rural crisis. Modi Government is, however, completely
oblivious to the crisis and has only responded after Supreme Court of India has
intervened in the matter and is issuing day-to-day instructions to deal with
the drought conditions. This by itself reflects complete abdication of duty by
Modi Government.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rural distress has been
accentuated manifold on account of systematic undermining of MGNREGA by Modi
government. This can be gauged from the fact that in the year 2015-16, only
1.8% households covered by MGNREGA got 150 days of employment in the 10
drought-hit States. Even for the year 2016-17, Modi government has already
reduced the MGNREGA demand by 980 million person days by curtailing the
approved labour budget to 2.17 billion person days as against the demand by
States of 3.15 billion person days. Apathy of Modi Government to MGNREGA demand
is evident from the fact that arrears of Rs.12,230 crore for work done in
2015-16 under MGNREGA have been released in April, 2016.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The consequence of this
adversity is massive rural distress.</span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Resultant effect is large scale
migration, farmer's suicides, drinking water rationing, food shortages and a
huge rural crisis. Modi Government is, however, completely oblivious to the
crisis and has only responded after Supreme Court of India has intervened in
the matter and is issuing day-to-day instructions to deal with the drought
conditions. This by itself reflects complete abdication of duty by Modi Government.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The FCI awaits arrear
payments from the Government amounting to Rs 56,114 Crores, leading to a situation
where lakhs of tonnes of wheat is lying in stores and warehouses, waiting to be
transported and distributed. This has led to a situation where neither the PDS
system is being replenished nor are the farmers getting their payments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In a place where water
riots are being prevented by invoking Section 144 and drinking water is being
supplied through trains, the concerned Ministers of the State Government (Shri
Eknath Khadse) are wasting thousands of liters of water to make their landing
helipads dust free and another Minister (Pankaja Munde) is celebrating a Selfie
Picnic Outing in the name of inspection visit. Another State President (BS
Yedyurappa) is planning to visit draught affected villages in an SUV worth Rs 1
Crore.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The highest priority of
the central government in a drought situation should be to ensure the creation
of millions of additional person-days of work in all affected villages.
Instead, the government has not even allocated enough funds this year to
sustain the level of employment generated last year – 233 crore person-days
according to official data. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At current levels of expenditure per person-day,
this would cost well over Rs 50,000 crores. Yet the central government has
allocated just Rs 38,500 crores to MGNREGA this year, of which more than Rs
12,000 crores are required to clear pending liabilities. These liabilities,
only prove the distress crores of workers have been put through because of
wages left unpaid for months at a time. Unemployment allowance and mandatory
compensation for delayed wage payments, are also not paid citing “insufficient
funds”, resulting in a failure of the Act, and its legal safeguards. Most
alarming today, is that instead of expanding, MGNREGA is all set to contract in
this critical drought year, unless financial allocations are vastly expanded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sadly water trains to
just parched Latur, is just not enough. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Instead
of providing relief and succor to the people, the Bharatiya Janata Party is
busy taking credit on the relief being sent to Latur by putting banners on the
relief train. Instead of announcing concrete measures to deal with the
situation, the Modi Sarkar is busy playing down the situation. Summers are
approaching and the situation this year is expected to be grim, but still the
Centre has refrained from taking meaningful steps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even more gravely, the
central and state governments are doing far too little to implement the
National Food Security Act, three years after it came into force. Had the Act
been in place, more than 80 per cent of rural households in the poorer states
would be able to secure about half of their monthly cereal requirements almost
free of cost. In a drought situation food security entitlements should be made
universal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Even
as the country faces the worst drought since 1986-87 but Modi Government
reduces funds for rural water from 9700Cr in 2013-14 to 5000Cr in 2016-17. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Rural distress in several parts of the country has also impacted the Rural
economy-demand as motorcycle sales are down for the first time since 2007-08<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
the instance of a natural disaster, states are expected to use their own funds.
But if the disaster has a high impact, it is normal practice for states to ask
the Centre for additional financial and logistical support from the NDRF. The
13th Finance Commission (2010- 2015) had provided Rs. 33,580.9 crore for NDRF
and the latest 14th Finance Commission, nearly doubled the amount to Rs 61,219
crore. Despite this the NDA Government has not been forthcoming to provide aid
to drought hit states.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Indeed,
the government has released some drought-relief funds amounting to about 10,500
crore rupees to seven affected states until Mid – January. More than half of
this allocation was for two states – Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LGInfvwngG8KIDQKm9TJzQ5XIOjl0QlIWwapVLWh3nr4F5TIbOt-_VVedaRVaiKKW9n1qAkSKs85J0k5ZC0akzNVYszNo_lvW6TucKsv_7tB65yEboElMBsltz6_LjyCi5xuo0PqrEA/s1600/Drought+Relief.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LGInfvwngG8KIDQKm9TJzQ5XIOjl0QlIWwapVLWh3nr4F5TIbOt-_VVedaRVaiKKW9n1qAkSKs85J0k5ZC0akzNVYszNo_lvW6TucKsv_7tB65yEboElMBsltz6_LjyCi5xuo0PqrEA/s640/Drought+Relief.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
the above chart we see that, except for Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, all other
states have received much less than 50% of their demand from the centre. For this
the BJP led NDA government in the centre drew howls of criticism for granting
meagre amount to many drought hit states.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This
clearly brings out the centre’s bias toward BJP governed states. Also a closer
look at the states which received higher percentage of expected relief shows that
Uttar Pradesh received 63% of requested relief this time. Whereas it is reported
that last time the Uttar Pradesh government had asked for Rs. 4900 crore and
got only Rs 490 crore, which is just a tenth of the total request made towards
drought relief fund. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Pulses
production has suffered due to lower output in 2014, damages due to unseasonal
rains and hailstorms in March 2015 and
shortfall in sowing (especially Tur)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This
year overall production of pulses is estimated to increase by just 1%, as the
second consecutive drought year takes its toll. Tur or arhar (pigeon pea), one
of the most popular dals, has taken a hit with its production dipping by 9%
from last year, and by 20% over 2014-15. Other pulses too are expected to see
decline in production, bringing the total pulse production down by 12% compared
to the non-drought year of 2013-14. This is ironic because 2016 has been
declared the International Year of Pulses by the United Nations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 366.9pt;" valign="top" width="612"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><u><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">PRICES OF PULSES<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">MAY 2014 (Rs)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">APRIL 2016 (Rs)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">INCREASE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">ARAHAR DAAL<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">73<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">185<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">153%<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">URAD DAAL <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">71<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">200<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">181%<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">CHANA DAAL <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">50<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">100<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">100%<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">MASOOR DAAL <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">69<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">100<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">45%<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 124.65pt;" valign="top" width="208"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">MOONG DAL <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 100.5pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">70<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 141.75pt;" valign="top" width="236"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">110<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 95.2pt;" valign="top" width="159"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">58%<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="4" style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 462.1pt;" valign="top" width="770"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Source: APMC &
Ministry of Consumer Affairs <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Modi government has issued an executive order that contravenes the National
Food Security law passed by Parliament in 2013 and effectively phases out the
Antyodaya food scheme launched by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government in 2000.
Issued on March 20, 2015 by the Department of Food and Public Distribution, the
order has come to the attention of Right to Food activists.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
order limits the distribution of food ration cards to “citizens” of India as against
“residents” as provided under the National Food Security Act.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
2015-16 Budget dealt the next decisive blow with punishing cuts to some of the
key programmes under the Act. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
had a 50 per cent cut.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Similarly,
the Mid Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) saw its budget reduced from Rs.13,000 crore to
Rs.9,000 crore<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
NDA government’s claim that it has allocated the highest ever outlay of Rs 38,500
crore to the scheme is not true. In fact, the highest-ever outlay since the scheme
was first implemented in 2006 was Rs 40,100 crore, in 2010-11 during the UPA
government.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
its apathy to deal with the Rural Distress and Severe Drought situation in the
country, the Narendra Modi Government has completely failed the farmers of
India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Modi Government has made tall promises to the suffering farmers of this
country, but did absolutely nothing for two years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP
and Shri Narendra Modi promised MSP of ‘Cost + 50% Profit’ in the run-up to
2014 elections repeatedly. On coming to power, Modi government submitted an
affidavit dated 06.02.2015 in the Supreme Court stating that ‘Cost + 50%
Profit’ on MSP can never be given. Relevant portion is reproduced
herein-below:-<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“It
is reiterated that MSP is recommended by CACP on objective criteria considering
variety of relevant factors. Hence, prescribing an increase of at least 50% on
cost may distort the market. A mechanical linkage between MSP and cost of
production may be counter productive in some cases.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In fact, Modi government has an extremely poor
track record </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">when it comes to </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">giving remunerative prices to farmers. Its amnes</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ty
policy has diabolically hit </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">the
farming community. Please see the enclosed chart.<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin-left: -26.1pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-table-layout-alt: fixed; mso-yfti-tbllook: 480; width: 638px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Sr.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">No.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Name of
Crop<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td colspan="2" style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 153.0pt;" valign="top" width="255"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Congress Government<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(2004-05 to 2013-14)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td colspan="2" style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 135.0pt;" valign="top" width="225"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Modi Government<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(2014-15-16)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">MSP<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Increase<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">MSP<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Increase<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 25.6pt; mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 25.6pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 25.6pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Sugarcane<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 25.6pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">73.50 to 220<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Given on<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">10.02.2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 25.6pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">146.50<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 25.6pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">230<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 25.6pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">10 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">2.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Barley <i>(JAUN)</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">540 to 1100<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">560<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1225<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">75 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">3.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Maize <i>(MAKEE)</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">525 to 1310<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">785<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1325<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">15 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 14.8pt; mso-yfti-irow: 5;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 14.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">4.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Millet <i>(BAJRA)</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">515 to 1250<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">735<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1275<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">25 only <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">5.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Soybean
Yellow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Soybean
Black<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1000 to 2560<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">900 to 2500<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1560<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1600<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">2600<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">No Increase<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">50 only <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">No Increase<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">6.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Groundnut<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1500 to 4000<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">2500<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">4030<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">30 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">7.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Wheat<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">640 to 1400<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">760<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1525<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">125 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">8.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Paddy
(Rice) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(a)
Normal <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(b)
Grade-A<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">560 to 1310<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">590 to 1345<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">750<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">755<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1410<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1450<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">100 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">100 only <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 27.0pt;" valign="top" width="45"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">9.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 67.5pt;" valign="top" width="113"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(a)
Cotton Desi<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> (Medium Staple)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">(b)
Cotton American<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"> (Long Staple)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="165"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1700 to 3700<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">1960 to 4000<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: .75in;" valign="top" width="90"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">2000<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">2040<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 63.0pt;" valign="top" width="105"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">3800<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">4100<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 1.0in;" valign="top" width="120"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">100 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">100 only<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2016-17
Union Budget of the Modi Government makes another tall promise to the farmers.
They have vowed to double the income of farmers by 2022. But experts have
question that promise. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Government has even failed to implement the MS Swaminathan Report, a promise
the Bharatiya Janata Party explicitly made in its 2014 Manifesto.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h3 style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Forty
percent of Shri Modi’s term has ended, only sixty percent is left and the
Indian farmer continues to suffer. </span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
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<img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISK75ncaILxTqmLffS2OFLoXdEon1p09awIxRp8c9fcLgD8CdyoIP3nDDIhfZ3BAtuOdfELmlLPh7nePdBKQCmw37owFUCIwFsGGGVptcOnJYwBU3uMfeAbXiJSY9uI4eLuBjj1DVNik/s640/WHERE+RE+JOBS_PREV.jpg" width="640" /><a href="http://countryawake.blogspot.in/2016/04/where-are-jobs-for-youth-shri-modi.html" target="_blank">http://countryawake.blogspot.in/2016/04/where-are-jobs-for-youth-shri-modi.html</a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 121.2pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-47998190156171709472016-04-25T03:53:00.003-07:002016-04-26T05:57:30.849-07:00Where are the jobs for youth, Shri Modi?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Narendra Modi Government is a dispensation with a brute majority. No other
Government in the past 30 years has been elected with such a clear mandate. In
a Westminster form of Parliamentary Democracy, it is imperative to constantly
gauge the mood of the people. 5 years is a long period for an elected
Government to usher reforms, especially fulfilling the promises on which it is
elected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">40
percent of that 5 year period has passed. It is time to take the stock of the
Government – whether it has been able to fulfill some of its promises (40
percent atleast), whether it has been able to usher in reforms or whether it
has lived up to the expectations of the people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Last
May, when the Modi Sarkar completed its first year, and the Government was at
its nascent stage, to give the Government a benefit of doubt, I had <a href="http://countryawake.blogspot.in/2015/05/the-first-years-upa-vs-nda.html">done
a small exercise of comparing the first year of the NDA 2.0 Government with the
first year of UPA Government.</a> This time the list is long and this exercise
would not be enough. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Only
60 percent term of this Government is left, and it is time for a hardcore
reality check on a wide range of issues. A check on its promises, a check on
what it has delivered or not delivered. A check on how it has succeeded or
failed. A check on the how it respected or disrespected the ‘Will of the People’
who elected it or even the ‘Will of the People’ who did not vote for it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So
for a month, starting April 26, 2016 to May 26, 2016 (the day Shri Modi took
oath as Prime Minister) I will compile a series of papers or chargesheets that
will determine how the Government has lived up to its lofty promises in the
court of the people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Let
me add a small disclaimer: All the data is either Government provided or based
on media reports. Source of each would be provided. I may or may not provide a
full picture on each issue, but whatever is provided in this series, forms the
crux of the issues. It is the essence of what went wrong in every sphere. So
let us embark on this journey …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">An
<a href="http://www.indiaspend.com/cover-story/ignited-hopes-no-jobs-why-jats-others-revolt-84928">IndiaSpend</a>
analysis of employment data and evaluation of aspirations of young Jats in
Haryana revealed that the protests are
manifestations of India’s slow, inadequate job-creation and a failing education
system creating thousands of “unemployable” graduates. This was also true in
protests by Patidars in Gujarat or the Kapus in Andhra Pradesh. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
<a href="https://www.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/EN-SWOP14-Report_FINAL-web.pdf">United
Nations</a> has said India will have the world’s largest youth population by
2020, and that population, in the age-group of 15-34, grew from 353 million in
2001 to 430 million in 2011, with millions unemployed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prime
Minister Shri Narendra Modi never stops claiming that India is now the fastest
growing economy in the world. As the fastest growing economy, we should be
generating a lot of jobs for our youth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">That,
however, does not seem to be happening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">New
jobs in eight labour-intensive industries fell to a six-year low in the first
nine months of 2015 — with just 1.55 lakh new jobs being created compared to
over three lakh jobs over the same period in 2013 and 2014, according to Labour
Bureau data.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Bharatiya Janata Party in its 2014 Manifesto had promised 2 crore jobs every
year. By simple calculation, it would have provided atleast 4 crore jobs by May
2016. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Out
of those 4 crore new jobs, the Modi Government has managed to add only 1.55
Lakh new jobs in 2015 (albeit officially) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/pace-of-job-growth-slows-to-sixyear-low/article8414578.ece">The
latest quarterly survey conducted</a> by the Labour Bureau showed 1.34 lakh
jobs were created in July-September 2015, the lowest in the similar quarters
since 2009 when the survey was started. In January-March 2015, though the
number of jobs increased by 64,000, it declined by 43,000 in the quarter ended
June taking the net addition of jobs during 2015 to 1.55 lakh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By
contrast, 3.04 lakh new jobs were added in January-September 2014 and 3.36 lakh
in the same period of 2013, a Labour Bureau survey showed. There was a sharp
decline in hiring of contract labour in 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Contractual
jobs declined by 21,000 in January-September 2015 against an increase of 1.20
lakh in the corresponding period of 2014. Direct employment rose by 1.76 lakh
in 2015 compared to an increase of 1.84 lakh in 2014.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There
is a colossal, unprecedented and ever-mounting crisis of employment for the
young in India today. Every month, a million new persons are joining India’s
workforce and there are hardly any jobs for them in either the public or
private sector.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">According
to a Kotak Securities report,India needs 2.30 Crore jobs annually. So the BJP’s
poll promise was pragmatic and achievable in nature. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Despite
global economic slowdown, during the second term of the UPA government from
2010 through 2014, far more jobs were created in the first nine months each
year</b>, across the eight sectors this survey tracks. In the first nine months of
2010, 6.58 lakh jobs were added; in 2011 this number was 7.04, 2012 full year
was 3.22 lakh and 2013 nine months it stood at 3.36 lakh. In 2014, the nine
month period saw 3.76 lakh jobs being created but a quarter wise breakdown shows
the largest number of jobs were created between April-June at 1.82 lakh and
then job creation kept declining to 1.58 in the July-September quarter before
falling off to 1.17 lakh in the last quarter of the calendar year.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Here's
some easy math for grasping the enormity of this slowdown in jobs under the
NDA: The Modi government took charge in mid-2014 and for that full year, 4.93
lakh jobs were added across these eight sectors. So job addition in the first
full year of this government fell to just a fourth of 2014 and was only a tenth
of the growth seen in 2009, when the <a href="http://www.firstpost.com/business/where-are-the-jobs-mr-modi-2731002.html">UPA
was in power.</a></b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
massive economic mismanagement of the Modi Government and its all around
failure to usher in real meaningful reforms have not only reduced jobs in the organized
sector, but according to the admission of its own NITI Aayog vice- chairman <a href="http://www.firstpost.com/business/where-are-the-jobs-mr-modi-2731002.html">Arvind
Panagariya</a>, “there is a fair bit of underemployment in agriculture too”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
it is clear that the Modi Government has not been able to live up to its promise
of providing new jobs to the youth, at least in its first two years in office,
it would be important to watch what road the Modi government would take from
here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Till
then, we can only ask Shri Modi about his promise, where are the jobs for the
youth? </span></h3>
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</script>Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-21709198561597567822016-04-20T02:20:00.001-07:002016-04-20T02:28:16.220-07:00India wants Kohinoor back, BJP doesn't !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9GelRccYM7L4aPVsoluNJnOfZf9y9_uxK1gGy4Pidr9UOxtk-EL7m9vihbIVMgljdS72YkWJcd7Rs-OpEwfQ_bm_8VMPrRO55M9uVoMHmtroPh303UORw97MxHj-hbiqnY50dfhXF8g/s1600/Kohinoor-Diamond.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9GelRccYM7L4aPVsoluNJnOfZf9y9_uxK1gGy4Pidr9UOxtk-EL7m9vihbIVMgljdS72YkWJcd7Rs-OpEwfQ_bm_8VMPrRO55M9uVoMHmtroPh303UORw97MxHj-hbiqnY50dfhXF8g/s640/Kohinoor-Diamond.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
India's stand on demanding the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kohinoor?source=feed_text&story_id=10153382894831150">#Kohinoor</a> back has been consistent. We demanded it just after the Independence. Then we demanded it in 1953 under Pandit Nehru and in 1976 under Smt Indira Gandhi. In 1990, when renowned journalist Kuldeep Nayar was the India's High Commissioner to the U.K., he found that the British would be embarrassed whenever he spoke to them about the Kohinoor.</h3>
<h3>
Later as Rajya Sabha MP, Nayar requested Jaswant Singh (the then Foreign Minister in the Vajpayee Government) to pursue the matter. He also got a petition signed by some 50 M.P.s - Opposition leader Manmohan Singh was one of them - to request the Government of India to ask the British government to return the Kohinoor. He would remind Jaswant Singh of the Kohinoor at practically every session but his reply would be merely a gentle smile. Once when Nayar talked to him about the return of the Kohinoor, he was cold. But he was frank. Jaswant Singh told Nayar that by raising the issue of the Kohinoor, India would be unnecessarily spoiling relations with the U.K.<br /><br />In 2010, under the leadership of Dr Manmohan Singh, India's Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also requested their British counterparts for the same.<br /><br />Now the BJP Government has changed the consistent Foreign Policy stand of the country, sadly they haven't changed their own stand.</h3>
</div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-5107788903359507302016-04-04T05:53:00.000-07:002016-04-12T01:44:15.153-07:00Achievements of UDF Government in Kerala : Ready Reckoner<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Major Welfare and Development Achievement of UDF
Government<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
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<i>After Assam and Bengal, here is a ready reckoner for Kerala. As Congress Supporters, we should spread it far and wide. Compiled from official sources. </i></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwnLcB-ICfSeKxJIwttO_IXukEy3wopEEwS69dziyAdrIsIHS8ceexPKY6nsUMUMCL5F1qDnNFWZGQFqPL9yG-q2Mx4iqXHAkkYjbe-kPoN54wrnT8okHAqGMroceHsOvVn_qumjWMJU/s1600/udf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwnLcB-ICfSeKxJIwttO_IXukEy3wopEEwS69dziyAdrIsIHS8ceexPKY6nsUMUMCL5F1qDnNFWZGQFqPL9yG-q2Mx4iqXHAkkYjbe-kPoN54wrnT8okHAqGMroceHsOvVn_qumjWMJU/s640/udf2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Economic growth higher than
national average <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Based
on current price, Kerala's economic growth has been 17% compared to the
national growth rate of 17.5%. In 2011-12, Kerala registered 17% (India 15%),
in 2012-13 it was 13% (India 13.3%), 2013-14 it was 13.4% (India 11.5%) and in
2014-15, Kerala registered a growth rate of 12.3% compared to the national
growth rate of 10.50%. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Work Commencement of Vizhinjam
International Seaport <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Work
has begun on the country's only deep-sea multipurpose container transshipment
port. The Rs 5552 crore project will be completed in 1000 days. The Union
government has provided Rs 817 crore as viability gap fund. On completion, the
port, situated 10 nautical miles from international shipping channel will be
able to handle container ships of 18000 TeU. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Kannur International Airport <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">65%
work on runway and 55% of terminal building of Kannur International Airport has
been completed. Trial landings will commence in January 2016 for which
permission has been sought from the Union government. It will become fully
operational by June 2016. Realization of this Rs 1892 crore project will give
Kerala its fourth international airport. Smart City Kochi 6.5 lakh sq ft
building completed. Work on 3.5 km four-lane road, bridge, sub-station and
water treatment plant also completed. Cost of first phase work was Rs 450 crore
and the inauguration would take place by the end of January 2016. 5500 people
will get jobs in the first phase and on completion 90,000. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">First Phase of Kochi Metro in June <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
first phase of the Rs 5181 crore Kochi Metro, starting from Aluva to Pettah
near Thrippoonithura (25.25 km) will be over by June 2016. Trial run will be on
23 January. Rs 8.3 crore is the cost for a coach, manufactured locally. On
completion by June 2017, there will be 25 trains and 75 coaches. Kochi Metro is
expected to serve 4.12 lakh people in 2017, 5.19 lakh people in 2021 and 7.57
lakh people in 2031. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">730 Bars and 78 Outlets Closed <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Apart
from 5 star bars, 730 bars in Kerala closed as part of the government's policy
to achieve complete ban on liquor over a period of ten years. Already 78 bars
have been closed based on the policy of annual closure of 10% of bars in the
State. Age limit for purchasing liquor raised from 18 to 21; permissible amount
of liquor in one's possession lowered from 27.1 liters to 15 liters and working
hours of bars including beer and wine parlour reduced by five hours. Permission
of local self-government bodies made compulsory for allowing new bars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rice for One Rupee- Subsidy of Rs
3500 crore <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5.8
lakh poverty-stricken families given rice up to 35 kg at the rate of Rs 1 a
kilo; and 14.4 BPL families given wheat at the rate of Rs 2 a kilo and up to 25
kilo rice at the rate of Rs 1 a kilo. 94 lakh people got the benefit. 60 lakh
more people included in the Rs 1 a kilo rice scheme and subsidy of Rs 3500
crore sanctioned for the supply of rice and wheat at low rates. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rs 1200 crore Sanctioned through
Karunya <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rs
1200 crore has been sanctioned to 1.42 lakh people through the Karunya
Benevolent Fund Scheme. Up to Rs 2 lakh is given as treatment assistance. The
income from Karunya Plus was also made part of this fund. The returns from the
sale of lotteries in Kerala in 2010-11 were Rs 557 crore, which touched Rs 5445
crore in 2014-15. The commission of lottery sellers has been raised to 26%. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">CM's Distress Relief Fund <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Till
December 31, 2015, Rs 540 crore has been disbursed through the Chief Minister's
Distress Relief Fund and Rs 6.27 crore disbursed to people outside Kerala. It
was just Rs 120.24 crore that was disbursed during the period 2006-11. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>7.89
lakh Petitions Settled in Mass Contact Programme </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In the three editions of Chief
Minister's Mass Contact Programme, a total of 7.89 lakh petitions were
resolved, out of a total of 12.5 lakh. In 2011, out of the 5.45 lakh petitions,
2.97 lakh were resolved; in 2013, out of the 3.21 lakh petitions, 3.20 lakh
were resolved and in 2015, out of the 3.83 lakh petitions, 1.72 lakh were
resolved. The programme received the 2013 UNPS award. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>PSC Appointments </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Appointments to 1,39,192 persons through PSC till October 31, 2015, which is an
all time record. After a gap of five years, 1182 differently-abled were given
jobs. 1950 differently-abled persons, who were in service for 179 days from
1999 to 2003 by creating 2677 supernumerary posts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>16 Medical Colleges </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After 35
years, the number of medical colleges in the State has risen to 16 from 5. New
medical colleges started in Manjeri, Idukki and Palakkad. Cochin Cooperative
Medical College has been taken over by the government. Work progressing on
medical colleges in Thiruvananthapuram, Konni, Kasaragod, Wayanad and Harippad.
Steps taken for the takeover of Pariyaram Medical College and for the elevation
of Parippally ESI Hospital in Kollam to medical college. New dental colleges
started at Alappuzha and Thrissur. Total number of MBBS seats risen from 900 to
1250. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Light Metro at Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">DMRC appointed interim
consultant of the Rs 6728 crore Light Metro rail projects at Kozhikode and
Thiruvananthapuram. DPR submitted to Union government for approval. Kerala
Rapid Transit Corporation formed for the implementation of the project. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Suburban Rail: 50% State Share </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rs 3300 crore Thiruvananthapuram - Chengannur
suburban rail project (125 km) will have 50% State share. DPR prepared by
Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation and submitted to the Union government for
approval. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 300 crore Assistance for Rubber </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Implemented price stabilization
scheme for rubber at Rs 150 a kilo and set aside Rs 300 crore for the purpose.
Rs 45 crore provided for another package formed with 12 tyre companies. This
was a scheme by which tyre companies purchased rubber by giving 25% extra of
the international price. Half of the purchase tax is given back to the
companies by the government and the remaining half will be treated as VAT refund
claim. Rs 10 crore rubber was procured through government agencies. Road
rubberization project also implemented. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Prompt Action on Kasturi Rangan Report </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The office memorandum issued by the Union ministry of forests and environment
that 13,108 sq km comprising 123 villages in Kerala fall under ESA, invited
protests from the local people, In response, Kerala made recommendations to the
Union government to exclude plantations, settlements farmlands from the
definition of ESA. Following this the area got reduced to 9994 sq km. Later an
ESA report based on survey numbers was submitted to the Union government. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs
1156 crore for providing 585 medicines free of cost </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Including 69 medicines for
the treatment of cancer, 585 medicines are given free of cost to all category
of patients at government run hospitals. Already Rs 1156 crore has been spent
for the purpose. 39 Karunya pharmacies started to check prices of medicines and
medicines sold at reduced prices of 20 to 93 per cent. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Comprehensive Healthcare
Scheme </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With an objective to bring various healthcare assistance schemes under
one roof, families with annual income of less than rupees three lakhs will come
under the Comprehensive Healthcare Scheme, announced in the State Budget for
2015-16. Through a smart card, beneficiary can avail of assistance up to Rs 2
lakhs and would benefit 42 lakh families. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Welfare Pensions Worth Rs 15,911
crore</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Four types of welfare pensions from the department of social justice
worth Rs 14,400 crore; eight types of pensions from the department of Labour
worth Rs 1511 crore and the farmer’s pension from the department of Agriculture
worth Rs 400 crore have been disbursed. Pension from Social Justice Department
goes to more than 32 lakh people. Welfare pensions are disbursed by the 18th of
every month. An average of Rs 240 crore is spent through local self-government
bodies for the disbursal of welfare pensions and Rs 14,400 crore spent in a
five-year period. Per month Rs 600 is spend on all categories of labour
pensions and reaches 17.60 lakh beneficiaries. In 2013, disbursal of farmer’s
pension to small and medium scale began at the rate of Rs 600 per farmer above
the age of 60. Total beneficiaries in this category stand at 3.35 lakh and Rs
400 crore spent within a period of two years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Strong Social Welfare Measures </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2546 persons were given treatment and 1922 persons follow-up treatment under
the free cancer treatment scheme for children up to 18 years. Project
‘Thalolam’, providing free treatment to seriously ill children of up to 18 years
was implemented in 15 hospitals. 8146 new persons were provided free treatment
and 2355 persons follow-up treatment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Persons assisting bedridden patients
round-the-clock are being provided monthly financial assistance through the
project – Aswasa Kiranam. There are 63,544 beneficiaries in this category. It
was just 680 persons when this government assumed office. The aim is to provide
assistance to 90,000 in the current financial year. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Free Cancer Treatment </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Free
cancer treatment through the Sukritham project is now available at RCC
Thiruvananthapuram, Malabar Cancer Centre, medical colleges at
Thiruvananthapuram, Alalppuzha, Kottayam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and General
Hospital Ernakulam. RCC secured the NABL accreditation through a Rs 117 crore
expansion programme. Cancer institute and research centre is getting ready in
Kochi. Mammogram unit started at General Hospital Thiruvananthapuram.
Facilities for cancer treatment made available in all districts of Kerala. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Mother and Child</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Implemented free delivery related treatment and neonatal care
up to 30 days, under the Mother and Child project. Newborn screening to detect
genetic disorders and 59 neonatal care centres started at 59 hospitals. Started
school health programme that provides treatment and medicines to 48 lakh
students in 13,270 schools.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>17,000 to benefit from teachers’ package</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The new
teachers’ package will benefit 17,000 recognized aided teachers serving in
regular posts till March 31, 2015. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Neera Production </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Farmers given permission to
tap alcohol-free Neera from coconut trees after amending the 112-year-old
Abkari laws. Licence issued to 173 coconut producing federations and three
pilot Neera production centres sanctioned under Kerala Agriculture University.
State Coconut Development Corporation is in charge of marketing. By tapping
Neera, an average monthly income of Rs 2100 is expected from a coconut tree. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>42,225 acres of land to tribal people Project</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">‘Aasikkum Bhoom’ (the desired
land) has provided land ranging from 25 cents to one acre. 524 landless
scheduled tribe families were given 184 acre of land through the project. In
the TRDM rehabilitation programme of landless scheduled tribes 6814 families
were given 8971 acre of land. Based on ‘Right to Forest Land Act’ 25,649
persons residing in the forests were given possession certificates and 33,070
acres of land provided. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Subsidy of Rs 837.27 crore for checking price hike</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Government was able to check rise in prices of essential commodities by
distributing them at subsidized rates. Compared to Rs 344.31 crore given as
subsidy to Supplyco during the period of the previous government, the subsidy
amount has been Rs 538.37 crore during the period of the current government.
Rice was also included in the subsidized category of items in 2014-15 and
95,188 metric tons of rice was distributed at reduced price. Rs 44.4 crore was
given to Horticorp for the supply of vegetables at reduced rates. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Currently,
through the 20,428 outlets of Nanma Stores under the ConsumerFed, 10 essential
commodities are being distributed at 20% less the rate in the open market.
ConsumerFed has already been provided Rs 254.50 crore compared to the Rs 117.71
crore given by the previous government. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 300 crore for 15,000 Coastal Houses</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> 15,000 houses built free of cost to homeless fishermen in the State. Rs 300
crore was provided for the purpose. Flats were also provided to 450 fishermen
families for which Rs 48.75 crore was spent. Financial assistance for house
construction hiked from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh, which will be provided as 100% subsidy. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>3.86 lakh petitions resolved at revenue adaalat</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Of the 4.72 lakh petitions
received at the revenue adalats held in all districts of the State, 3.86 lakh
were resolved. Orders also issued for effecting mutation the next day itself,
following the registration of land. Earlier, this was allowed only after a
period of 30 days from the date of registration. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>2132 Arrested in 'Operation
Kubera'</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> 14,155 raids were conducted and 2132 persons arrested as part of
'Operation Kubera' meant for nabbing privately run loan mafia. Rs 466 lakh was
seized as part of the operation. The government also launched focused
operations that included 'Operation Suraksha' for checking the activities of
thugs and anti-social elements; 'Subha Yatra 2015' for creating awareness on traffic
rules; 'Operation Vatsalya' for tracing missing children and 'Operation Clean
Campus' for preventing use of narcotic drugs inside campuses.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Land Provided to
10,271 Families </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Three cents of land each were provided to 10,271 families,
under the 'Zero Landless' scheme. Districts of Kannur, Kasaragod and Idukki
became the first in the country to become 'zero landless'. Phase II of the
scheme is progressing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Title Deed to 1.24 lakh Persons </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Title deeds given to
1.24 lakh persons within a period of four years, compared to Rs 84,606 title
deeds during the period of the previous government. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>IT Exports Touch Rs 15,000
Crore</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> IT sector in Kerala has grown to the extent of direct employment to one
lakh persons and income generation of Rs 15,000 crore from IT exports. It was
just Rs 3000 crores worth IT exports when the UDF government came to power in
2011. The annual income on rentals from Technopark and InfoPark is now Rs 70
crore. With the commissioning of phase 1 of SmartCity and CyberPark, IT exports
from Kerala would reach Rs 18,000 crore in 2016 and two lakh direct employment. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Number One in MSMEs in the Country</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala topped the nation in terms of number
of enterprises and employment generation in a national survey of Micro, Small
and Medium Enterprises, based on population and land area. During the period
2006-11, only a total of 31,995 MSME units were registered and 2.23 lakh job
opportunities and an investment of only Rs 3247.11 crore, compared to the last
four financial years that saw 51,899 new MSMEs, 2.97 employment opportunities
and investment of Rs 8225.05 crore. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>SC Medical College </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For the first time in
the country, a medical college was started under the department of Scheduled
Caste in Palakkad in 2014-15. Rs 24.33 crore was spent for project. Of the total
admissions, 70% is for scheduled caste students and 2% for students belonging
to the scheduled tribe. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 18.6667px; line-height: 21.4667px;">35th </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">National Games </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala won acclaim for organizing
the 35th National Games in a commendable manner. 1.52 crore people took part in
'Run Kerala Run' a publicity campaign held at 7000 centres in Kerala, which
found a place in the Limca Book of World Records. As part of the national
games, nine playfields were built and 17 got modernized. For the first-time in
India a green-field stadium was built through public-private partnership in
Thiruvananthapuram. All medal winners of Kerala were given cash awards and
jobs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Domestic Milk Production Increased by 83.08% </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Achieved 83.08% increase in
domestic milk production. State's milk production in 2011 was 67% of the
domestic demand. Stability ensured for milk price and steps taken to check
price of fodder. Year-long subsidy provided to farmers for purchasing fodder.
Production of milk has reached 11 lakh litres from 6.42 lakh litres five years
ago. The daily import of milk by Milma from neighbouring States in 2010-11 has
come down from 6.5 lakh litres to 2.2 lakh litres. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Timely Interventions in NRK
Issues</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Government helped 3835 persons who were stranded in strife torn
countries like Iraq, Libya and Yemen to return home safely, for which Rs 1.43
crore was spent. Provided assistance to Malayalees during floods in Jammu
Kashmir, Uttarakhand and for their safe return back home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Free Power Supply to
Life-Support Users </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">People on life-support systems are being provided with
free-of-cost power supply. Power connection given to houses of less than 100 sq
m on lands not under anyone's possession. Consumer given the choice for
purchasing meters directly from the manufacturer for avoiding the meter rent to
KSEB. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>LED Bulbs at Token Rates</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Two LED bulb of nine watts, costing Rs 400 each
are being given to households at a token rate of Rs 95. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Four By-Passes @ Rs
1466 crore </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Four by-passes worth Rs 1466 crore are nearing completion. Completed
the 28.1 km long, Rs 145 crore Kozhikode by-pass in 18 months. By-passes in
Alappuzha (Rs 348.43 crore), Kollam (Rs 352.05 crore) and Thiruvananthapuram
(Rs 621 crore) are fast progressing. Rs 1824 crore sanctioned for renovation of
roads in 2016. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>28 More Municipalities</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">28 panchayats that have attained urban
characteristics made municipalities and Kannur municipality elevated to
corporation. 15 B grade municipalities elevated to A grade and 17 C grade
municipalities to B grade. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>1.75 crore Digital Certificates </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As part of Project
e-District, 1.75 crore digital certificates issued till December 10, 2015. 24
types of certificates are issued online by the Revenue department. All the 14
districts of Kerala are included in the 50 e-Districts in India. Completed the
procedure for providing 1 GB connectivity in all grama panchayats, making
Kerala the first digital State in India. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Emerging Kerala</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Work has commenced on
56 projects, worth Rs 32,137 crore that were submitted during the global
investor meet - Emerging Kerala. Of these projects, 14 projects of Rs 23,334
crore are under the department of Industries. Projects like BPCL Downstream,
Kochi Petrochemical Park, Poly Isobutene project, BioNutra Park, Biomedical
Devices Hub are some of the projects that would add to the outlook of Kerala in
future. Already, projects like the joint venture by Mercedes Benz and the
department of Higher Education, Bosch and department of Higher Education, Kids
Lab by BASF India and the department of Science and Technology have started. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Massive Participation in Start-Ups</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> The Start-Up village at Kalamassery in Kochi
has become a role model for rest of the country. Within a short period, student
and youth entrepreneurs have come up with 7000 odd concepts and have registered
at the Start-Up Village. These young entrepreneurs are provided 4% grace marks
and 20 per cent relaxation in attendance. During 2014-15 the turnover of
start-ups from IT and IT related ventures was Rs 7.84 crore. Basic facilities
for the start-ups were provided through government IT parks and Micro, Medium
and Small-Scale clusters. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 20 lakh Loan to Young Entrepreneurs</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> 'Young
Entrepreneurship Summit' held to assist youth with innovative industrial
ventures to become young entrepreneurs and 'We Mission' meet held for the first
time in India for women. Angel fund was formed to create initial capital and
Seed fund to give additional assistance to young entrepreneurs. Incubation
Centers were formed in colleges to realize the business concepts of students.
For encouraging young entrepreneurs, Kerala State Entrepreneur Development
Mission was formed. Already 2,834 ventures have been selected for the Rs 20
lakh interest-free loan scheme. 5000 persons were given training. Financial
assistance provided to 650 ventures, out of which 450 have become fully
functional. This scheme has provided direct jobs to 3000 persons and indirectly
to almost the same number. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 220 crore National Waterway</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> The 205 km
Kollam-Kottappuram National Waterway, the only one in the State is getting
ready for inauguration. For commencing the transportation of goods, Rs 150 lakh
has been sanctioned for the construction of permanent berths at Udyogamandal
and Chavara. The whole project is of Rs 220 crore.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Rs 24,000 crore for
Panchayats</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rs 24,000 crore from Panchayat Plan fund provided to panchayats, which
is an all-time record. For its activities in decentralization of power and
empowerment of democracy, at the national level, Kerala stood second in 2011-12
and 2013-14, third in 2012-13 and took the first spot in 2014-15. Kollam
district panchayat bagged the national award for the comprehensive welfare and
development activities. Idukki and Veliyanadu block panchayats; Nadaapuram,
Kaviyur, Marangattupally, Maneedu and Iraviperur grama panchayaths also won
national awards. Kerala also won the national award for digitization of grama
panchayats. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 3000 crore Japan drinking Water Project </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Rs 3000 crore Japan
Drinking Water Project has been implemented successfully in Thriuvananthapuram,
Meenadu (Kollam), Cherthala, Kozhikode and Pattuvam (Kannur). 41 lakh people
are getting the benefit. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>4.5 Crore Tourists </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">State Tourism Department is placed
second in terms of contribution to the State’s GDP, which is 10%. In 2011-14,
the State received 4.53 crore tourists and earned an income of Rs 87,754 crore.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Backward Classes Development Department, Corporations</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Backward Classes
Development Department, Backward Classes Development Corporation, Backward
Classes Commission and Minority Commission and Kerala State Welfare Corporation
for Forward Communities Limited to promote the comprehensive development and
welfare of the economically backward sections among the forward communities of
Kerala were formed. Loans worth Rs 1003.83 crore were disbursed by Backward
Classes Development Corporation to 1.40 lakh people. Converted Christian
Development Commission under the Backward Classes Development Department gave
loans to the tune of Rs 28.09 crore to 10,534 people. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 6082 crore Through
Aswas</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Aswas project was launched with the objectives of reducing loan arrears
due to Cooperative Societies and Banks and also to provide relief to those
struggling with loan repayment. Through the project, Rs 6082.19 crore was
collected in terms of arrears and benefits of Rs 935.14 crore provided to
loanees. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Three Flyovers Worth Rs 212 crore </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nearing completion are the flyovers
at Palarivattom (Rs 72.60 crore) and at Edappally (Rs 108.77 crore). The Rs
30.17 crore Kanjikuzhi flyover in Kottayam town will be completed in 18 months'
time. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>245 Bridges of Rs 1600 crore </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Construction of 245 bridges in different
districts has been completed for which Rs 1600 was spent. The tenure of the
current government witnessed the construction of maximum number of bridges in
the State. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 2,403 crore KSTP Phase II </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Received World Bank assistance for the
Rs 2,403 crore Phase II project of KSTP. Under this project, nine roads of 363
km is being developed as per international standards. They are
Kasaragod-Kanhangad, Pilathara-Pappinissery, Thalassery-Valavupara, Thiruvalla
by-pass, Chengannur-Ettumannur, Ponkunnam-Thodupuzha, Punalur-Ponkunnam and
Perumbilavu-Perinthalmanna. The project will be over by September 2018. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Construction of Six Major Roads of Rs 3,272 crore </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Construction of
Ramapuram-Nalambalam Darshanam road (Rs 50.75 crore),
KanjikuzhiVettathukavala-Karukachal road (Rs 45.35 crore),
Karamana-Kaliyikkavila NH (Rs 263 crore), Kuttippuram-Puthuponnani road (Rs
54.22 crore), Vallarpadam-Kozhikode coastal road (Rs 117.14 crore),
Airport-Seaport road (Rs 216.97 crore) roads have become an asset to Kerala's
basic development. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 100 crore Sewerage Plant at Muttathara </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">A Rs 100 crore
sewerage treatment plant with capacity of 107 MLD has started functioning at
Muttathara in Thiruvananthapuram. Steps are being taken to start plants at
Kozhikode, Kochi and Kollam. Work on the first Septage Treatment Plant in the
country has been completed at Brahmapuram in Kochi.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Plastic Wastes at Rs Two</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Clean Kerala Company has been formed for the collection and processing of
wastes. Kerala is the first State in the country to collect plastic wastes and
e-wastes by giving money. Steps are being taken to start the first plastic
processing plant in Kochi Corporation. Clean Kerala Company is collecting
plastic wastes at a rate of Rs 2 per kg and e wastes at a rate of Rs 25 per kg.
So far, 150 ton e-waste and 134 ton plastic waste have been collected.
Discarded CFL bulbs, CDs and tube lights are also collected. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Online Payment of
Electricity Bill </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">All section offices of KSEB Ltd have been computerized.
Centralized Customer Care and Call Centre started for the consumers to register
complaints and to get essential information. Online payment system provided for
payment of electricity bills. Provided internet based remittance of electricity
bills in all section offices. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Electricity reaches 1.7 lakh rural homes </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">1.7 lakh
rural houses provided electricity connection through Rajiv Gandhi Rural
Electrification Scheme. 65,659 houses that come under the BPL category were
given free of cost electricity connection. Rs 201.64 crore has been spent for
the project. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Record Financial Assistance to Public Sector </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">An all-time record
financial assistance of Rs 899.90 crore has been sanctioned to 44 public sector
undertakings under the Industrial department. e-Tender and e-Payment facilities
introduced. Procedure completed for implementing e-Auction system in public
sector undertakings. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 6,510 crore Spent on MNREGS </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Marked changes affected in
the rural sector by spending Rs 6,510 crore through MNREGS. Each year, an
average of 17 lakh families got employment. During 2006-11, the amount spent
was just Rs 1508 crore. Work-time re-scheduled from 9 am to 5 pm. and the daily
wage of Rs 150 was raised to Rs 227 in 2011. Assistance for education of
children and gifts during Onam season were also provided to the families of
workers by the government. Electronic Fund Management System introduced in all
grama panchayats to credit wages of labourers directly to their bank accounts. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Three lakh New Pipe Connections </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Three lakh new pipe connections provided.
Drinking water made available through 2.07 lakh publics taps. The target is to
provide 4.19 lakh new connections this year. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Paddy Procurement: 1.5 lakh
Farmers to Benefit</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Achieved good progress in paddy procurement. In 2014-15,
5.50 tons of paddy was procured from 1.25 lakh farmers. Support price of paddy
became Rs 21.50. 1.25 lakh farmers got the benefit. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Raw Coconut Procurement </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">For
the first time in the State, a record 70213.69 tons of raw coconut was procured
by KERAFED. For units that undertakes processing of raw coconut to copra, apart
from the price of coconut the government is giving Rs 500 as financial
assistance for a quintal of copra. The procurement price of raw coconut is Rs
25. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Compensation to Crops Damaged by Wild Animals </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Compensation to crops damaged
by wild animals can be given four times. The maximum is Rs 75,000/- Treatment
assistance to those injured in wild animal attack has been raised to Rs 75,000.
Sanction has been given to kill wild boars that destroy crops, subject to
certain conditions. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Stamp Duty: Benefits Worth Rs 1800 crore </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The Stamp duty for
partition, release, gift and settlement deeds executed between family members
have been reduced to Rs 1000 and registration fees reduced by 1%. This will
benefit 49 lakh people by Rs 1800 crore in terms of Stamp duty and Rs 300 crore
in terms of registration fees. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Undervaluation: Benefit of Rs 403 crore</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> One-time
settlement scheme was implemented to settle arrear undervaluation cases. All
undervaluation cases of title deeds involving land transactions of less than
five cents in panchayats have been exempted. This will benefit about two lakh
people by Rs 100 crore. 1,31,111 undervaluation cases were settled through
one-time settlement scheme by paying a token amount as fee, which benefited
that much number of families by Rs 303 crore. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Motorized Tri-Scooters to 5010
Persons</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Motorized Tri-Scooters were given to 5010 persons through the State
Handicapped Persons’ Welfare Corporation and LSGs. Janani and Jathik, two
mobile phone applications that utilizes GIS to monitor the health of newborn
babies in Attapadi was introduced. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Schemes for Endosulfan Victims </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Those
endosulfan victims who are getting disability pension from LSGs are given Rs
1700 per month and Rs 2200 to those who are not getting pension. Other
endosulfan victims, suffering health issues are given monthly financial
assistance of Rs 1200. Students in families affected by endosulfan are given Rs
2000, Rs 3000 and Rs 4000 as assistance for studying up to Plus Two. A special
fund has also been sanctioned by Kasaragod district collector for the treatment
of these students. Rs 51.30 crore has been sanctioned to the district collector
for giving compensation of up to Rs 5 lakhs to victims of endosulfan. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Hearing
Ability to 581 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Cochlear implantation surgery done on 620 children through the
Sruthi Tharangam project. The inability to hear was identified in these
children at a very young age and got included in the project. The government
gives Rs 5.10 lakh for a cochlear implantation surgery. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Classical Language
Status and University for Malayalam </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Malayalam University started at Thunchan
Parambu and achieved Classical Language Status for Malayalam. Malayalam
language got this status along with Tamil, Kannada, Telugu and Sanskrit. Viswa
Malayala Mahotsavam celebrated after 34 years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Technology University </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala
Technological University set up under the department of Technical Education.
All engineering colleges in the State are members of this University. 50,000
students will get the benefit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Police University</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> National University for Police
Sciences and Security Studies started. Graduate and postgraduate courses will
be conducted on subjects related to police. Facilities for research will also
be provided. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Sree Narayana Studies in School Syllabus</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Sree Narayana studies
have been included in Malayalam and Social Science text books of class seven.
In connection with the centenary celebrations of Daiva Dasakam of Sree Narayana
Guru, the prayer song was published bearing the picture of the Guru. A topical
book to evaluate the visionary values of Daiva Dasakam published. Rs 4 crore
has been sanctioned to Sivagiri Sreenarayana Dharmasangham Trust for the
constructing of a Convention Centre. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>720 new buses </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">A subsidiary corporation by
the name of KURTC started and 320 buses sanctioned. Purchase order given for
buying 400 buses in the next phase. Bus terminals at Thiruvananthapuram,
Thiruvalla and Kozhikode were commissioned on BOT basis. 10 multi-axle Volvo
buses have been rolled out for service by spending Rs 10 crore. ePayment system
and courier service started. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>See Kuttanad Double Decker</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> 'See Kuttanad' service
started by using two double-decker passenger-cum-tourist boats that can
accommodate 90 persons each. 45 steel boats are currently in operation. Bio
toilet facility provided on passenger boats. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Zoological Park </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Zoological Park is
turning into a reality in Thrissur. e-Auction facility introduced for
auctioning of wood. 390.50 lakh saplings distributed as per Haritha Keralam
project. Kutti Vanam project started. 700 posts of tribal watchmen created and
appointment given. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>215 core for Settlements </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">For the development of 436
Scheduled Caste settlements in which 50 or more families are living, Rs 215
crore has been sanctioned at the rate of Rs 1 crore each for developing 215
settlements. So far Rs 94.42 crore has been spent and development activities at
25% of the settlements completed. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 665 crore for Buying Land; Rs 568 crore
for House Construction</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> The financial help that is being given to the landless
and homeless belonging to the SC category has been increased from Rs 75,000 to
Rs 3.75 lakh in rural areas, Rs 90,000 to Rs 4.50 lakh in municipal areas and
Rs One lakh to Rs 6 lakh in Corporation areas. Assistance for construction of
houses increased from Rs One lakh to Rs Three lakh. Installments of grants given
at a lower rate to beneficiaries earlier have been given remaining installments
at higher rate. Rs 664.86 crore was given to 29,465 families for buying land
and Rs 568.33 crore to 24,141 families for construction of new houses. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 43
crore for 43 Model Colonies </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The Model Colony project for which Rs One crore is
being spent for one ST colony has so far come up with 43 model colonies at a
cost of Rs 43 crore. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Janani Janmaraksha Scheme </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The scheme provides pregnant
women belonging to ST community and lactating mothers with monthly financial
assistance of Rs.1000, starting from the third month of pregnancy and up to 12
months after delivery has so far benefited 11,000 persons. Debt Relief To
12,216 Persons Loans worth Rs 140 crore, taken by 12,216 persons belonging to
the ST category from banks and various other institutions had been written off.
These were loans of up to Rs One lakh, pending payment as on 01-04-2014. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Snehaveedu to 30,308 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">By combining the general housing project of ST Development
department, housing project using HUDCO loan, Indira Awas Yojana project of
Rural Development department and the housing project of panchayats, the amount
for constructing 30,308 houses under the comprehensive housing project, started
in 2015-16 was increased from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3.5 lakh. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Package for Primitive
Tribes </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The package for primitive tribes worth Rs 148 crore saw 8001 persons
getting the benefit of land, house, basic facilities and livelihood. 12 New
Taluks, 31 New Villages 12 taluks and 31 villages were newly formed.
Manjeswaram, Vellarikundu, Iritti, Thamarassery, Kondotti, Pattambi,
Chalakkudy, Idukki, Konni, Kattakada, Varkala and Punalur are the new taluks. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Title Deed for Revenue Land </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Steps taken to amend laws for providing title deeds
to people who are living in revenue land for years. This will be completed
within the tenure of this government. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Coastal Ship Transportation</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Costal ship
transportation project started. Commenced merchant ship service from Kollam,
Beypore, Azheekal ports to ports in other States. As part of the project, ships
transporting one ton of cargo will be given an incentive of Rs 1 for a km and
Rs 1 for a km for passengers. Ponnani has become the first PPP port in the
State. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>CIAL - Total Solar Powered Airport</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> CIAL has become the first airport in
the world to totally run on solar power. Work on the new Rs 1000 crore
international terminal has begun. It has registered a record increase in terms
of passengers and cargo. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Debt Relief Projects </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Relaxed interest rate to those
who repay short term agriculture loans without default, debt relief projects to
members of SC / ST who have taken loans from cooperative societies and banks
and special debt relief project for fishermen implemented. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 300 crore Cancer
Care Centre</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Rs 300 crore cancer care centre, equipped with the most modern of
facilities, coming up in Kozhikode district at the initiative of cooperative
bank. Flat complex is also coming up in Thiruvananthapuram. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Vegetable Farming
in 90,533 Hectares </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Area of vegetable farming increased from 42,447 hectares in
2011-12 to 90,533 hectares in 2014-15. Production also increased from 8.25 lakh
tons to 15.32 lakh tons. Vegetable farming carried out on commercial basis
through 2479 clusters of farmers in 12,400 hectares of land. 22 lakh vegetable
seed kits were distributed to school students and women free of cost and
achieved vegetable farming in household premises. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Vigilant Kerala</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Vigilant
Kerala project started with public participation to combat corruption.
vigilantkerala.in started as part of the project. If convinced that there is
conviction in a government project or work then that can be post on website.
Facility in place at Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau for receiving
complaints through social media. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Jail Chapati </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Chapati making unit started at
Thiruvananthapuram Central Prison and food processing units started at
Thiruvananthapuram, Kannur, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kollam and Kozhikode prisons
for providing quality food to the public at rates lower than the market rates.
The income from this was Rs 8 crore in 2014. Rs 26 crore solar projects of 1078
KW capacity implemented at different prisons. CCTV system provided at
Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Kannur and Ernakulam prisons at a cost of Rs 4.20
crore. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Water Tax: 7253 Complaints Redressed</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> In the adalats that were conducted
in all districts of the State, 7253 complaints related to arrears in water tax
were resolved. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 1769 crore Rural Drinking Water Project</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Under the rural
drinking water project, 209 projects, estimated at Rs 1769 crore are being
implemented and that too in a manner that a person gets 70 liters of drinking
water per day. Taking into account the outstanding implementation of
accelerated rural drinking water projects, Kerala Water Authority received an
additional amount of Rs 169.70 crore from the Central government. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Pipes Worth
Rs 445 crore</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Rs 445.37 crore spent for laying quality pipes. Use of concrete
and AC pipes avoided. The diameter of drinking water pipes in the city area has
been fixed at 150 mm and 80 mm in rural areas. The new drinking water projects
should only use MS (mild steel), DI, PVC, PE pipes. PVC pipes should not be
used where the diameter exceeds 160 mm. This new pipe policy has been
formulated to prevent bursting of pipes. As part of the measures to prevent pipe
bursts, Mild Steel pipes were laid from Aruvikkara to Peroorkada, replacing the
old ones. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>22 Arts and Science Colleges</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> For the first time in the history of
Kerala, 22 Arts and Science colleges were started in the government sector. 320
courses were also sanctioned in government-aided colleges. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>IIT </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Indian Institute
of Technology will come up in an area of 400 acres at Kanjikode in Palakkad
District. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rajiv Gandhi Knowledge Centre for Career Studies and Research </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Rajiv
Gandhi Knowledge Centre for Career Studies and Research formed for the
education and training of fishermen children and youth in the coastal area. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>22,300 Students Admitted to Plus Two </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">62 government higher secondary schools and
167 aided higher secondary schools sanctioned. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">22,300 students given admission
to plus two courses in the 110 newly allotted 110 batches in the government
sector and 336 in the aided sector. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Aided Status to Buds Schools </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Aided status
given to special schools that are having strength of more than 100 students
including Buds schools. In-principal approval has been given for granting aided
status to special schools having strength of more than 50 students.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Italian
Marines to Abide by Indian Laws </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The two Italian marines who shot dead fishermen
off the Kerala coast were eventually made to abide by Indian laws and face
trial in India. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Kerala Model Healthcare</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Kerala has become the first State in
India to have Allopathy, Ayurveda and Homoeo hospitals in all panchayats.
Kerala has also become a totally Ayurveda State by starting Ayurvedic treatment
centers in all panchayats. Department of Ayush formed by coordinating the
treatment streams of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and
Homoeopathy. Permanent Ayurvedic treatment centers were started at 77 places
where the treatment was not available. 343 posts were created for this and
postings done. 110 Homoeo dispensaries started and 446 new posts created and
postings done. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Rs 61 crore for Sabarimala Master Plan</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Works worth Rs 61.27
completed as part of Sabarimala Master Plan, which is meant for providing basic
facilities. Rs 10 crore given for Zero Waste Sabarimala project. Waste
processing plant started at Sannidhanam. Works of walkway canopy, eight queue
complexes and underpass from Pamba to Sannidhanam completed. Swami Ayyappan road
readied for tractors to ply. Arogyabhavan at Pamba, Rs 523 crore renovation and
repair of roads to Sabarimala undertaken. Rs 7 crore new bridge at Kanamala for
making travel from Erumeli to Pampa easy and Rs 8.14 crore worth roads (14 m
wide) with sidewalks at Nilakkal, facility for parking more than 10,000
vehicles, water-tank of 10 lakh liter capacity and two bore wells constructed.
The roads to Sabarimala were renovated by spending 518 crore in connection with
the pilgrimage season. Works of major roads leading to Sabarimala (75.2km)
under heavy maintenance scheme and with five years guarantee were completed.
These roads were constructed under heavy maintenance project which has a
guarantee of 5 years. 124 km roads were renovated with a guarantee of three
years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Centres for Imparting Skill </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Started, the Kerala Academy for Skills
Excellence, the nodal agency for providing skill excellence to the youth. Under
this, Nursing Institute for Career Enhancement and Centre for Excellence in
International Security at Thiruvananthapuram and Enlightened Skills Programme
in Oil and Rig stated at Angamali. Indian Institute of Infrastructure and
Construction started functioning at Chavara in Kollam. IIIC would soon start to
function for making labourers skilled for undertaking model construction works
of high standards at Chavara. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Benefit to 10 lakh Workers</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> More than half a
century old Kerala Shops and Commercial Establishment Law and Rules amended in
a timely manner. There are norms in the law for providing experience certificate
to workers / employees, appointment order and hostel facility, which are to be
given by the owner. The new law ensures crèche facility for the children of
women workers, retiring room, clean toilets, seating facility inside retiring
rooms and facility to deposit sanitary napkins. About 10 lakh workers will
benefit through this amendment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Three Welfare Projects for Workers</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> About 10
lakh plantation workers, 2.5 lakh coir workers has been included in the Aam
Admi Beema Yojana, which ensures comprehensive insurance protection from
accidents to the families of workers in the unorganized sector. Rs 75,000 for
death due to accident and permanent disability, Rs 30,000 for natural death and
Rs 37,500 for partial disability are being given. Scholarships are also given
to the children of those enrolled in the project and studying from classes 9 to
12 (including ITI), the amount being Rs 1200 per month. CHIS Plus project has
been implemented for giving an additional amount of Rs 70,000, apart from the
Rs 30,000 given for treatment of serious illnesses. This is for members of
Comprehensive Health Insurance, meant for treatment assistance. Implemented
Sanjeevani scheme for giving financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh to the
descendants in the event of accidental death of a family head, who is a member
of the Comprehensive Health Insurance and CHIS plus schemes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Minimum Wages
Revised</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Wages were revised on two occasions in the plantation sector and were
the highest increase in the history of the State. The new rates for rubber,
coffee, tea and cardamom are Rs 381, Rs 301 and Rs 330 respectively. Wages were
revised in the cashew sector too. Fair wages were also revised for the motor
workers. Steps are being taken at a fast pace to renew minimum wages in all
labour sectors that have completed its term. Minimum wages renewed in 16 labour
sectors. In addition five new labour sectors included in the list of minimum
wages. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Nokku Kooli abolished</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Nokku Kooli has been banned State-wide. Complaints
can be registered by calling the call centre number 155214 or the toll-free
number 180042555214.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b> Eleven Autonomous Colleges </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Eleven autonomous colleges
started in the State. Autonomous status awarded to Thiruvananthapuram Mar
Ivanios College, Kollam Fathima Matha College, Changanassery S B, Sacred Heart,
Maharajas College, St Theresa's College, Rajagiri College, Farook College, MES
Mambadu, St Josephs Devagiri and St Thomas Thrissur. Over a period of time,
these colleges can start new courses. In future, they will become autonomous
universities. They can prepare syllabus, conduct exams and can announce results
independently. Autonomous colleges will get aid from UGC. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Wages Protection
System</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> Wages protection system implemented for giving wages through banks to
workers employed in different private sectors. Kerala is the first state to
implement such a project. The officials of Labour department can now monitor
online whether the wages as prescribed by the law are reaching the workers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Five Projects for Construction of Houses </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala State Housing Board freed from
the loan liability to HUDCO by paying Rs 730.67 crore inclusive of interest.
Five projects Saphalyam, Santhwanam, Sayoojyam, Saubhagyam and Grihasree were
formulated to provide houses to the people belonging to all sections. The
Budget share for the housing sector in these five projects was Rs 2,077.65
crore during 2010-11. This was increased to RS 3,259 crore during 2014-15. 2064
persons belonging to lower income group having 2 or 3 cents of land as their
own has been given assistance for construction of homes ranging from 30 sq m to
60 sq m, under the Grihasree housing project. Rs 55.59 crore given to 8,235
houses under M N Laksham Veedu reconstruction project and 218 houses
reconstructed at Bangladesh colony at Rs 15 crore. 216 flats under Saphalyam
project for constructing flats to those belonging to the weaker sections at
Chathannur in Kollam, Chelannur in Kozhikode, Chottanikkara in Ernakulam,
Puthukadu in Thrissur are under construction. 500 more flats will be
constructed in the second phase. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Major Laws</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Right to Service Act:</b> This law
ensures that the public gets the required service within a stipulated period of
time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Healthcare Service Persons and Healthcare Service Institutions
(Prevention of violence) Act:</b> Intended to prevent violence against healthcare
service personnel and prevention of violence and property loss of healthcare
service institutions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Kerala Prohibition of Charging Exorbitant Interest Act:</b>
Law for banning exorbitant interest rates on loans and for giving rigorous punishment
for taking excess interest. More effective measures for the protection of river
banks and for checking sand mining. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Kerala Lifts and Escalators Act:</b> For the
erection, maintenance and security of lifts and escalators in Kerala. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Thunchath
Ezhuthachan Malayalam University Law:</b> For the establishment of Malayalam
University to enrich the studies and research on Malayalam language, literature
and culture. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>State Minority Commission Act: </b>Formation of the commission for the
educational progress, welfare, protection and empowerment of minorities. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>State
Youth Commission Act: </b>Formation of a commission for the preparation of projects
for making the youth well educated, empowerment and also for the protection of
the rights of youth. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Kerala Anti-Social (prevention) Activities Amendment Act:
</b>Amendment to make KAPA more rigorous and flawless. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Fish Seed Law:</b> Law to check
production quality, marketing and storage of of fish seeds. CESS on KSRTC
tickets to provide more facilities for commuters and for the social security of
employees. Law to protect the interests of investors in different financial
institutions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Devaswom Recruitment Board Law:</b> Law to form a recruitment board
for making appointments to various posts. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>APJ Abdul Kalam Technological
University Law:</b> Law pertaining to the formation of Science and Technology
University to encourage scientific and technological education. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Real Estate
Regulation Law: </b>Law for the formation of a regulatory authority for controlling
and supporting the real estate sector. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Expatriate Indians (Keralites)
Commission Act:</b> Law for the formation of a commission to protect the interests
and welfare of the expatriate Keralites inside the State. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Law for the formation
of a State Commission for forward communities. Law that allows PSC to undertake
University postings. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Malayalam Language (propagation and enrichment) Bill: </b>Law
that ensures adaptation of Malayalam as the official language, its usage at all
levels and its propagation, enrichment and sustenance. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>100-Day Magic</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Out of the
107 programmes announced 102 could be completed within 100 days. 24x7 Call
Centre, Disclosure of Personal Assets, Whistle Blower System, Settlement of
Moolampilli, Chengara struggles and Enhanced security to Padmanbha Swamy temple
were implemented successfully. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Seven Streams Projects </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Seven-Stream Projects
were implemented following the 100-day magic of the government. Seven paths
were announced to attain the aim of development and care. The Seven-Stream
Projects were announced on 17 November 2011. A total of 664 projects were
announced under the seven streams. 91.71% of the projects have been achieved. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Recognitions </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">CM’s Jana Samparka Paripadi received the UN Award for Public
Service in 2013. It was for the first time that a chief minister in the country
was selected for this prestigious award. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">CM’s Website received the Web Ratna
Award of the Union government in 2012. Kerala received the IBN 7 Diamond State
Award for its performance in the fields of education, health, environment and
poverty alleviation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> India Today State of the States Award in 2013 for
achieving outstanding growth in the fields of education, macro economics,
agriculture, consumer market and investment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala received the first prize of
the Union government in 2014-15 for its performance in decentralization of power
and empowerment of democracy. The responsible tourism project implemented at
Kumarakom won the Ulysses Prize, known as the Oscar in tourism sector. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The
publicity event ‘Run Kerala Run’ a mass run for National Game witnessed the
participation of 1.52 crore people and earned a place in the Limca Book of
World Records. The mass run was arranged at 7000 centers across Kerala. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala
has continuously received the Energy Award from 2012 instituted by the Ministry
of Power. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Kerala also received the India Power Award in 2014 and the award of
the Ministry of Power in 2015 for implementing the most number of Pico hydro
electricity project.</span></div>
</div>Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-28395055902532042722016-04-02T02:51:00.000-07:002016-04-02T02:51:55.339-07:00West Bengal Assembly Elections: Facts, Factors and Issues <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<i><b><br /></b><b>A Ready Reckoner For a Congress Supporter for West Bengal Elections </b></i></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFj15FZngeeuxlvnwxC48aRmVth45OcEb0bJ5cRSAqBY410ZB4nqG52S1CsJnwF8xRx1jgqGTweo-OFlT553ZOLHJwxII74vBipg-MyzjJj6r8I5oWwXvGCiTZ0qMdnKgyormy7cztHI/s1600/WEB+Congress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFj15FZngeeuxlvnwxC48aRmVth45OcEb0bJ5cRSAqBY410ZB4nqG52S1CsJnwF8xRx1jgqGTweo-OFlT553ZOLHJwxII74vBipg-MyzjJj6r8I5oWwXvGCiTZ0qMdnKgyormy7cztHI/s400/WEB+Congress.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">TMC
Betrayal<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In 2011 Congress had entered into an electoral
understanding with TMC to usher in a positive transformation of the state. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The basis for such an understanding was laid when
TMC expressed its desire to join the UPA on the eve of the elections to Lok
Sabha in 2009. Congress made supreme sacrifice and allowed a big chunk of seats
to be contested by TMC, helping TMC to increase its Lok Sabha representation
from 1 to 19. 7 TMC Ministers were accommodated in the UPA II government.
However, from the very beginning, TMC instead of strengthening the central
government, started to undermine it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Despite the increasingly negative role of TMC,
Congress leadership favoured the party by conceding an overwhelming number of
seats to TMC in the Assembly elections in West Bengal in 2011. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A TMC led government was formed with a minor
representation of Congress. Taking advantage of its majority in the Assembly,
TMC sought to undermine Congress, pursued a policy of neglect and humiliation
of the Congress ministers, engineered defection from Congress ranks and
forcibly occupied Congress offices throughout the state. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Simultaneously, the personalized and whimsical style
of functioning of the Chief Minister of the state and general lawlessness
encouraged by TMC and pursuit of anti people policies in many different spheres
generated our strong reservations and disapproval. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Instead of addressing our legitimate concerns, we
were asked to leave the government. In the meanwhile, TMC was resorting to
blackmail the central government and to engineer a fall of the government. It
withdrew its support from the UPA II government in September 2012. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Bolstered by its majority in the government in West
Bengal and encouraged by political difficulties of Congress led UPA II
government at that point of time, TMC revealed its opportunism. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">All its various attempts to regain credibility and
political space at the national level since then have repeatedly failed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Congress decided to pull out its ministers from the
TMC government because of lack of co-ordination and continuous humiliation<b>. The government had betrayed the trust of
the people. <i>Poribortan </i>which had
raised hope of a positive transformation in Bengal turned out to be a curse. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l23 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br />
</span><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Manifold Failures of TMC Government</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br />
<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The TMC ruled
government of the state has failed the people of the state in all spheres of
social and economic development and has become a source of endless
embarrassment with its tall and bizarre claims of success and development. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Democracy and
Constitutional order is in peril in the state. Priorities of the government
have been wrong all along. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The focus on
fairs, festivals, recreation and financial support to the clubs is in marked
contrast to complete neglect of the government employees’ dues in the form of
dearness allowances. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Para teachers
are forced into a precarious situation and part Time teachers of the colleges
have not received adequate compensation for their services. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A glaring
example of government doublespeak was noticed when peacefully agitating
teachers of Madrasaas were forced to end their hunger strike over non-payment
of their salaries. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Maintenance of
public order has become a casualty of widespread violence with illicit arms and
crude bombs being freely manufactured, smuggled and used against political
opponents. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Political
opponents have been targeted and political rivalry within the ruling party has
also led to killings on a large scale. Police personnel have also been killed
by the hooligans under the protection of TMC.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Police
administration and law and order machinery in the state has witnessed a rapid
deterioration in terms of effectiveness, efficiency and transparency. Chief Minister herself has sided with
ruffians and illegally forced the police to secure their release from a police
station. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">False cases have
been filed by police and the opponents of TMC have been hounded all across the
state. Police functionaries responding to their call of duty have been
reprimanded, sidelined and transferred. In many instances, police has been used
to coerce the political opponents to surrender and transfer their loyalty to the
ruling party. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The state has
become a safe haven for the manufacturing of illicit arms and crude bombs,
being freely used against opposition and to settle intra- party squabbles of
TMC. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Administration
has turned a blind eye to open public display of weapons by the ruling party
members as happened in Kandi and refused to act against illegal activities
involving arms whether in Burdwan, Birbhum, Malda or Murshidabad district. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The government
has neglected national security by turning a blind eye to the nefarious
activities of anti-national forces which have enjoyed a free run. In the
process, our security has been compromised. Khagragarh bomb blast showed how
Bengal is becoming a safe haven for extremists. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Government has
been in denial over every major threat to peace and tranquility in the state.
It tried its level best to hide its complacency and the linkages that TMC
cadres have developed with anti-national forces. The quality of its cooperation
with the central agencies has also been quite poor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">TMC government
has attempted to coerce the bureaucracy and the police to serve the
organizational interests of TMC. As a result, loyalty to TMC and sycophancy has
been encouraged. Effectiveness and efficiency of government services have
declined. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The state could
not hold recruitment tests for thousands of teaching jobs past three years for
one reason or the other, under one pretext or the other.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Question papers
have been leaked out and examination system manipulated to serve the interests
of TMC cadres. The 2011 TET exam result was manipulated and has achieved the
notorious distinction of being the biggest recruitment scam of the country. The next lot of the TET exam was postponed
twice and many months have passed but lakhs of youths who have taken the
examination are still in the dark about the result. The government has
maintained a studied silence on the issue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Time and again,
judiciary has cautioned the government and passed strictures against misuse of
power. However, the state government has either challenged the Orders and
Judgments or tried to delay implementation of Court Orders. In quite a few
instances, the government has been audacious to defy the Orders as well.
Members of Judiciary have also been sought to be coerced and influenced by the
ruling party. This is a most serious threat to democracy and Rule of Law. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The TMC
government has completely neglected the agricultural sector and the interest of
the farmers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Singur fiasco
represents the monumental failure of the government. Neither the interests of
farmers could be protected nor could any industry be set up in Singur in the
last five years. Hundreds of farmers in the state have committed suicide,
driven by starvation and debt, after failing to receive minimum support price
for their products from the government. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The government
delayed the implementation of the historic Right to Food Security Act passed by
UPA II government in 2013 by three years. This has deprived millions of people
of the state from availing the benefit of food security for three years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The jute mill
owners have colluded with the government and often resorted to closure,
rendering thousands of workers unemployed. The plight of the tea garden workers
have been neglected by the state government to such an extent that hundreds of
workers have died of starvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Government has
made tall claims regarding investment flow into the state. Facts speak
otherwise. No new industry has been set up in past about 5 years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Many factories
have closed down. Many business houses have migrated to other states. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A strong
negative perception of the state has become endemic and business and industry
have become extremely reluctant to invest in Bengal. The unreasonable and
adamant policy of the government on the land issue has been a big dampener. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The
discretionary policy regarding the upper land ceiling is yet another stumbling
block to the economic prospects of Bengal.
Again, general lawlessness and ‘syndicate raj’ perpetuated by TMC has
become a biggest blot on the state. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Employment
generation, the single biggest challenge for any government, has rather become
a casualty of the government’s negative approach and attitude to business and
industry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Anarchical
situation prevails in educational institutions where TMC students’ unions and
their activities have induced lawlessness, manipulation of admission processes,
attack on teachers and control of the unions by forceful means. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">TMC leadership
has openly encouraged and supported anarchy in the colleges and universities as
a means to control the unions. Police has been used to act in a blatantly
partisan ways to favour the TMCP. Student organizations affiliated to
opposition political parties are not allowed to file nomination papers for
student union elections and are often forced to withdraw their paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Many a college
principals have resigned as a result of excessive interference from the ruling
party in regard to admission processes. Government has blatantly interfered
with the autonomy of Universities and used police to suppress dissenting voices
in the campus. College student Krishnapada Jana, a member of Chattra Parishad
was beaten to death by TMCP members inside the college premises in Sabang in
broad day light and yet the killers are roaming free. Instead of taking stern
action against named and known TMCP members, the police administration has been
dictated by the ruling party to frame innocent members of Chattra Parishad.
This type of blatant partisanship of police and the government has no parallel
in the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Crimes against
women have seen an alarming rise.
Administration has attempted to deny or downplay the number and nature
of crimes against women. Most often the ruling party has sided with the
perpetrators of violence against women instead of extending support and justice
to the victims. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Chief accused of
the infamous Park Street gang rape is still absconding, apparently with the
support of the ruling party. Insensitivity of the administration and of the
Chief Minister was in full public view in the Kamduni gang rape case as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Victims of
crimes against women have been denied justice and their family members and
friends siding with them have been ridiculed and intimidated. In many
instances, victims and their families have been coerced into silence and
discouraged from filing cases. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Elections
subsequent to 2011, ---whether the 2013 Panchayat elections, 2014 Lok Sabha
elections, 2015 elections to municipalities, Kolkata and Bidhan Nagar
corporations have been reduced to a farce under the active patronage of
the government. State Election
Commission was not allowed to discharge its responsibilities as per law in 2013
Panchayat election. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Force and
intimidation paved the way for the election of thousands of TMC nominees
without any contest. Wherever the opposition could file nomination and contest
the election, verdict of the people was sought to be undermined by force and
coercion. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Defection of
elected members of opposition parties to TMC and the manner in which defections
have been forced has dealt a severe blow to democratic norms, principles and
law. TMC has even resorted to kidnapping
of elected representatives to force its way into power in the local bodies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Democratically
elected MLAs of opposition political parties have been coerced and lured to
join the ruling party. Intimidation, false police cases and lure of money have
been used to gain control of Panchayats, municipalities and corporations. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Court Orders and
Judgments have been repeatedly violated to protect the interest of ruling party
members. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The State
Election Commission was not allowed to discharge its responsibilities in a
lawful manner during 2013 Panchayat elections. Hoodlums were employed to loot
booths during the Bidhan Nagar Corporation elections and 22 journalists who
covered the rigging were assaulted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">TMC government
has been a government of announcements and pronouncements. Government has been
laudatory of its ‘achievements’ whereas the reality is just the opposite. Its
tall claim of generating 68 lakh employment is a cruel joke with the millions
of unemployed youths. Its claims in the health sector have been dismissed
comprehensively by facts and statistical data. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It is
unfortunate that the government has completely neglected the environmental
issues. It refuses to heed the saner voices calling for moderation and
responsiveness towards environmental concerns. TMC henchmen involved in illegal
coal and sand mining, are protected by the government and this is a causing a
big threat to environment protection measures and laws. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Socio-economic
and educational development of the religious minorities of the state has been
completely neglected. A recent report by a group of NGOs released by Prof.
Amartya Sen on living conditions of Muslims in West Bengal has laid bare the
details of the relative backwardness of the community and how very little has
been achieved for their development and empowerment. The representation of the
minority community in government services still remains minimal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The government
has tried to mix religion and politics, both to provoke reactions from the
right wing forces against ‘appeasement’ and at the same time using this as a
pretext to neglect basic socio-economic and educational needs of the
minorities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Interest of
other religious minorities like Christians also stand neglected in the state.
The linguistic minorities have also not received due recognition of their
contribution to the state and have often felt neglected. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Corruption has
reached an unprecedented level with the general public being looted of lakhs of
crores of money by the leaders of the ruling party under the guise of illegal
chit fund schemes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Leaders
including Members of Parliament, MLAs, Ministers and Mayor and Deputy Mayor of
Kolkata Corporation have been seen accepting bribes. Instead of acting against the corrupt,
government has been siding with them. Government had tried its best to prevent
a CBI investigation in the Sharada and other Chit Fund scam, spending public
money to argue against investigation in corruption. One of the accused in jail
continued to be a minister in the state cabinet for about a year and has been
rewarded with nomination to contest election by the ruling party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Both Modi and Mamata government have decided
not to take any action over Narada string video featuring 14 TMC leaders and
one serving IPS official accepting bribes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Congress
Vision For West Bengal <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBh2Ttuf5q_p2hZ8PU6BaL0nQ6BcOptnUHYKfHFsQQ_es9EYfAZ06aiQt6fsZLYFxjt6v-cDLyhGfFIw0JIZhwJ5OuDkosY13rBtqmPsfiTCIe6mMJpKP17rgv6eViqtm5dCcAMkVXvMo/s1600/x610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBh2Ttuf5q_p2hZ8PU6BaL0nQ6BcOptnUHYKfHFsQQ_es9EYfAZ06aiQt6fsZLYFxjt6v-cDLyhGfFIw0JIZhwJ5OuDkosY13rBtqmPsfiTCIe6mMJpKP17rgv6eViqtm5dCcAMkVXvMo/s640/x610.jpg" width="371" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Congress has not been at the helm of power in West
Bengal past almost 40 years. The solid
economic foundation, industrialization and pathways of economic development of
the state were laid by successive Congress government beginning from 1950s to
1970s. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The period since then has witnessed a gradual
downslide of the economic prospects of the state. From a front ranking state in
economic terms in the country, Bengal witnessed a downhill journey. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Bengal’s competitive edges were blunted. Out
migration became a constant feature of the state. Even while other states
picked up momentum in their economic stride, Bengal could not hold on to our
place. This must change.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We must rewrite our destiny as a people and as a
state. Even while we have much to learn from history, let us not get prejudiced
and blind to the realities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We cannot afford to remain a prisoner of our past,
of our prejudices and of our animosity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Congress believes in looking forward, to reengage
and to recreate the best in our potentials. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We remain firmly committed to the ideology of
Constitutional Order, Parliamentary Democracy, Liberal Values, Inclusive
Development, Good Governance and Secularism. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We shall never deviate from our ideological moorings
and we would continue to champion these ideals as a guide to all our
activities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This ideological and political position has dictated
our electoral strategy in the election to Legislative Assembly. We have entered
into an electoral understanding of seat sharing with the CPIM and other Left parties. We believe that Congress and Left must pull
their strength and join together to establish a united democratic secular
government in West Bengal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l22 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This is the only way to meet the twin challenges for
democracy and secularism both in the country as well as in our state. Let us
unite to defeat and unseat the TMC government and free the state from its
misrule and repression. Let us pull together our strength to defeat RSS/BJP. It
is necessary. It is possible.<br />
<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Agenda of Governance and
Development: Manifesto Highlights</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="background: white; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Indian National
Congress has resolved to constitute a united democratic secular government in
West Bengal. We are supportive of all progressive policies, measures and
actions that benefit the economic prospects of West Bengal and promote the
welfare of people within the framework of our political and ideological
orientations. However, herein we are listing our focus points and priority
areas as part of our agenda of governance and development. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Democracy and Rule of Law<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l29 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Functional multi-party
democracy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l29 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Ensuring
Human Rights and protection of laws for everyone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l29 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Increase the
powers and autonomy of Human Rights Commission<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l29 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Strengthen
the powers of State Election Commission<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Law and Order</span></b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Zero
tolerance of support and encouragement of anti-national activities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Severe
measures against perpetrators of violence against women<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Measures to
Free the state of illicit arms and bombs in within two years<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Zero
tolerance of mob violence<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Necessary
reform in police administration<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Primacy of Protection of Women’s
Interest<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">30 per cent
of all new recruitment in police forces from women<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">24 Hour
Helpline for women facing sexual harassment in each block<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Removing
jurisdiction boundaries for police in registering criminal cases<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Mandatory
for a reporting officer to comment upon on the gender sensitivity of the police
personnel in the Annual Performance Appraisal Report<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Detailed
database of persons convicted of crimes against women on website<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Open,
voluntary, dignified and above all safe places of women’s shelter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">More
‘Working Women’s Hostels’ will be set up<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l21 level1 lfo6; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sensitizing
teachers on gender equality <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Transparency<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo7; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Speedy
investigation into Saradha and other chit fund scams<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo7; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Investigation
into TET Recruitment Scam of 2011 and non-declaration of TET result<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo7; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A functional
Lokayukta<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo7; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Probe into
the Narada sting operation on public servants accepting bribes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo7; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Strong
regulatory framework against fraudulent companies and institutions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Secularism<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l33 level1 lfo8; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Strong
measures against people creating disharmony, inciting violence<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l33 level1 lfo8; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Non-interference
in the religious affairs <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l33 level1 lfo8; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Non-discrimination
on religious grounds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Administration and Governance<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l11 level1 lfo9; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Balance
between democratic rights of employees and maintenance of discipline<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l11 level1 lfo9; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Probity and
transparency in awarding contracts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l11 level1 lfo9; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A Citizen’s
Charter of Services and delivery<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l11 level1 lfo9; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Dignity of
physically and visually challenged people<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l11 level1 lfo9; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Non-discrimination
toward third gender and LGBT community<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Pravasi Ministry <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l27 level1 lfo10; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A new
department under a Minister to protect the interests of residents of West
Bengal in other parts of the country or abroad <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l27 level1 lfo10; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To connect
to the vast Bengali Diaspora and bring their knowledge, expertise and skills on
a common platform<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Food Security<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo11; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Full
implementation of Right to Food Security passed by UPA II government<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo11; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Provision of
rice at @ Rs 2 and adequate quantum of wheat to poor families<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo11; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Strengthen
public distribution system and provide ration<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Employment Generation<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l31 level1 lfo12; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">StrengthenMGNREGA
with expanded scope<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l31 level1 lfo12; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To find ways
and means to provide economic support to the unemployed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l31 level1 lfo12; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Filling in
the vacant posts and position at all levels and cadres<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l31 level1 lfo12; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Development
of IT & ITES to create more job opportunities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Education<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Commitment
to implement Right to Education<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Campus
democracy, autonomy and peace<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Speedy and
transparent recruitment to teaching positions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Minimum qualifications
for Management Committee positions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Online
admission in all the colleges and universities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Online
system for nomination papers for college election<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Substantial
increase in salaries of Para Teachers and Part Time Teachers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Medical
colleges in each of the districts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Special
Emphasis on Vocational Training and Skill development<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l13 level1 lfo13; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Focus on
literacy on financial inclusion <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Health<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Filling in
the vacancies in Health care administration, doctors and nurses<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Focus on
creating infrastructure in hospitals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Introduction
of male nursing cadre<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">State levied
taxes on life saving drugs to be reduced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Medical
colleges in each of the districts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Regular
vaccination drive to improve public health <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Improvement
of healthcare facilities in every blocks and villages<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Proper Drug
control mechanism<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo14; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Revival of
proposal for an additional AIIMS, at Raiganj<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Science & technology <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A
comprehensive scheme for digital
education<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Focus on
Environmentally sustainable technology usage<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Upgradation
of IT and ITES infrastructure in all the
Government Departments<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Measures to
attract best scientific brains of the world to work in the state<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 18.75pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Agriculture and Rural Development<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l18 level1 lfo16; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Land
acquisition only under the 2013 Act protective of the interest of farmers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l18 level1 lfo16; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Strict
adherence to providing Minimum Support Prices for procurements, restrictions on
the activities of middlemen in grain procurement <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l18 level1 lfo16; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Availability
of agricultural loan at cheaper rate; Focus on crop insurance <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l18 level1 lfo16; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Introduction
of e-market, to link farmers with buyers via Internet <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l18 level1 lfo16; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Cold storage
facility in each of the Blocks of the state<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l18 level1 lfo16; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Primacy of
Panchayats and local elected bodies in development planning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Industry and Business<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Government
support to industry to acquire land as per the 2013 Act with mandatory consent
and other conditions including protection of the interest of the land owner and
other stakeholders<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Revival of
focus on industry<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">New
approaches and methods for the revival of jute and Tea industry <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Repeal The
Urban Land (Ceiling and Regulation) Act<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Permission
of the government to acquire and hold land in excess of ceiling area to be made
automatic instead of discretionary <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of
Knowledge based industry and Industrial Research Institutes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Revival of
existing SEZ zones and consideration of new proposals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Development
of Haldia docks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Abolition of
Entry Tax for goods into the state<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Single
window system for procuring licenses<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Protection of small and mid-level
businesses from extortion and syndicate raj’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l16 level1 lfo17; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Regional Offices of SEBI in
Kolkata<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Labour and Industrial Relations<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l26 level1 lfo18; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Strict enforcement of minimum
wages for labour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l10 level1 lfo19; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Repeal of outdated labour related
laws and introduction of a new comprehensive Act on labour laws<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l10 level1 lfo19; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Industrial Disputes Act to be
substituted by Industrial Relations Act<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l10 level1 lfo19; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Flexibility for businesses and
establishment to decide on workdays and hours without compromising rights of
workers to adequate compensation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Power<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo20; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Revisiting
the tariff rate for electricity consumption including power audit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo20; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To develop a
long term comprehensive plan for power sector<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo20; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To focus on
obtaining/purchasing natural gas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo20; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of
Alternative Energy to meet the burgeoning power demand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Infrastructure and Transport<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To
prioritize infrastructure development, communication and transport linkages<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Mega
Projects like East West Metro and Freight Corridor to receive special focus<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">State of Art
Roadways and Waterways <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of
Alternative Energy public vehicles across the state to control pollution<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Small and Medium Enterprises</span></b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Simplification
of legal framework of starting up a new business.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Setting up
facilitation center to foster indigenous technology, products and services.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Programs and
incentives to support innovation, research and development <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l24 level1 lfo21; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To set up
incubation centres in districts to accelerate entrepreneurship <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Environment Protection and
Pollution Control<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Environment
protection and pollution control to receive due importance in development
planning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Autonomy and
requisite power to Pollution Control Board<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Involving
environmentalists and Green NGOs in development planning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Electricity
duty subsidy for new industries incorporating green measures by design<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Incentives
for power generation from Waste heat recovery.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Technical
Assistance to SMEs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Incentives
for energy recovery from waste and Green Factory Buildings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Arsenic free
water facilities in Sunderban and different parts of South Bengal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l17 level1 lfo22; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Rainwater
Harvesting infrastructure in Sunderban to get rid of drinking water problems <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Animal Husbandry, Fisheries,
Horticulture <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l19 level1 lfo23; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promote new
schemes and technologies for preventive vaccination, treatment of sick animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l19 level1 lfo23; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Establishment
of veterinary clinics at the block level.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l19 level1 lfo23; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Increase the
number of qualified veterinary graduates<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l30 level1 lfo24; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Prepare a
road map for fisheries development and bridge the demand-supply gap<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l30 level1 lfo24; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Assist and
provide research, development and extension support in a collaborative approach
for fisheries development in the state.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l30 level1 lfo24; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Developing
and utilizing open coal pit for aquaculture/ cage culture <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l30 level1 lfo24; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Create a
demand –driven approach for horticultural products<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Urban
development <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l32 level1 lfo25; tab-stops: 273.75pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Focus on availibility of safe
drinking water for al<b>l<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo26; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Introduction
of smart Cities in phases<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo26; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Integrated
urban planning and management for municipalities and corporations with focus on
enhancing and upgrading the sewerage and drainagesystem<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo26; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Encourage
Environmentally sustainable Eco-friendly buildings with Solar Energy and
Rainwater Harvesting facilities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Religious Minorities<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo27; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Socio-economic,
health and educational needs and concerns of Muslims to be the utmost priority<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo27; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Special
focus on access to healthcare in minority concentrated blocks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo27; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Positive
facilitator for better accessibility to financial assistance from banks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo27; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Enhanced
support for the teachers employed in minority run educational institutes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo27; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Protecting
and serving the rightful interests of Christians, Sikhs, Jains and Parsis<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Linguistic Minorities<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l28 level1 lfo28; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Protecting
the interests of people speaking Hindi, Nepali, Oriya, Santhali, Gujarati and
Gurmukhi languages and support the promotion of these languages<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l28 level1 lfo28; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of
Kamatapuri language<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Backward Classes and Tribal
welfare<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo29; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Focus on
full implementation of all existing policies and schemes for backward classes
and tribal population of the state<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l6 level1 lfo29; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Measures for
welfare of the Kurmi community<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo30; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Infrastructural
development of the rural areas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo30; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Implementation
of right to forest for the tribal population<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Flood Control and River Erosion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l12 level1 lfo31; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">An
integrated and comprehensive flood control policy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l12 level1 lfo31; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Concretization
of river banks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l12 level1 lfo31; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Plantation
of erosion resistant crops<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l12 level1 lfo31; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Regular
desilting of the river bed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Tourism <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l20 level1 lfo32; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">An
integrated infrastructure support program for tourism promotion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l20 level1 lfo32; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Upgrading
Darjeeling Himalayan Railways <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l20 level1 lfo32; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Development
of new tourism spots<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l20 level1 lfo32; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Development
of river tourism<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l20 level1 lfo32; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">An
integrated IT system and Online Apps to book all the tourist spots of the state
from a common platform<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l20 level1 lfo32; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Improvement
in tourism infrastructure<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Skill Development <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Development
of a roadmap for skill development in consultation with industry and labour <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Soft skills
training centers in each block of the state<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Engage
research institutes in helping artisans of Bengal in finding better equipment
and material for their work<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Social Welfare<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">BPL lists
would be scrutinized for necessary amendments
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">E-window
service centers in BDO offices to rectify mistakes in BPL names <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Efficient
and Transparent IT & ITES system to link bank accounts with beneficiaries<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">24 hour
support Centre in each block of the state for the elderly, destitute, missing
children, physically challenged and other vulnerable sections of population <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Housing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Affordable
Housing Scheme to every BPL family under “Right to Shelter” initiative<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of Art and Culture<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l9 level1 lfo33; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Establishing
and enhancing support for museums, libraries and galleries <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of
folk cultures and dying arts <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Online
merchandizing of products to attract national and international customers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Engage
internationally renowned artists and performers in Expert Committees to chalk
out a plan to promote the culture of Bengal outside Bengal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Youth Development <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Formation of
a Sports University and Sports Research Institute <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Promotion of
Yoga in every school and college to prevent lifestyle diseases<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l25 level1 lfo15; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Awareness
campaign against addiction<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Regional Development<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo34; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Special
needs and aspirations of North Bengal to receive priority<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Maximum
possible autonomy to Hills<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Enhancement
of powers and resources of Paschimanchal, Jangalmahal, Sunderban and other
development boards and authorities<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">(Compilation From Inputs By West Bengal Congress Committee) </span></i></h3>
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<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-16229608121750887482016-03-29T21:12:00.002-07:002016-03-29T21:42:56.573-07:00Assam Elections: Facts and Factors<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
Assam Elections: Facts and Factors</div>
</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8amVFlzX9oJS_ZeAPKD61Oi_mxFnOb_bw2sRxKXyM5tnyTd-SxCFTK21s_VOxRTjMGugI9SPC_-4yVMXluIwHfYWC9kmD-LLHscBvdYlcOhTr-vn88Xqlnl6t4-p3NFC8aLNGeBlnhE/s1600/blog+imag+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8amVFlzX9oJS_ZeAPKD61Oi_mxFnOb_bw2sRxKXyM5tnyTd-SxCFTK21s_VOxRTjMGugI9SPC_-4yVMXluIwHfYWC9kmD-LLHscBvdYlcOhTr-vn88Xqlnl6t4-p3NFC8aLNGeBlnhE/s1600/blog+imag+1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
first round of polling for the Assembly elections in Assam will take place on
April 4. Commentators and those who are following the political scenario are
divided on whether there is even an overarching issue in this largest state of
Northeast India which has been governed by the Congress since last 15 years
now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Last
year, the Congress faced a major dissidence and a strong Congress satrap
Himanta Biswa Sarna switched sides to the BJP along with his MLA’s. At that
point one wondered whether 79 years old Tarun Gogoi would be able to retain the
state for the Congress or not. As political developments unraveled in the
aftermath of the Bihar elections, politics unraveled in Assam too. BJP formed
an alliance with BPF (Bodoland People’s Front), formally with the Congress
party and its last minute alliance with AGP despite massive dissidence in the
rank of files of both parties is trying to depict as if the real opposition in
Assam is them. Actually the real sitting opposition in Assam is AIUDF, the
party of perfume baron Badruddin Ajmal, who surprisingly won the same amount of
Lok Sabha seats (3) as the Congress and is well known for supporting illegal
Bangladeshi Muslims in Assam. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">BJP
also announced Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Sarbananda Sonowal
(formerly with AASU and AGP) as its Chief Ministerial candidate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Congress is fighting alone, barring an electoral understanding with a small UPP
party of Bodos, the odds look stack against the Congress, but the reality may
be different. The Congress party is banking on the support of tea garden
workers, tribals, rural vote, SC,ST’s and other traditional Congress voters as
well as the failures of the Modi Government. Although there might be some
anti-incumbency in the state, the Tarun Gogoi is known for weathering it for
two consecutive times with much better results in 2011. Scores of student
leaders and various second rung leaders have recently joined Congress. In a
massive show of strength, just last month, 60 big leaders from various other
political parties including two sitting MLA’s joined the Congress. Hence a
Congress supporter should be somewhat relieved that the party is trying hard to
retain the land of Brhamaputra.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Here
are certain facts, factors and issues of the Assam elections which would
certainly be useful for a Congress supporter-<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress Achievements in Assam <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Scenario
when AGP-BJP was in Power<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Assam Economy under previous BJP-AGP alliance
grew at less than 2% Growth Rate <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There was climate of violence and the gruesome
secret killings took place then<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The State Coffers were empty and the State
Government could not even afford to give salaries to its employees. There were
no new jobs. State Government servants were forced to commit suicides. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Agriculture Growth in 2000-2001 was negative at
-1.5%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Scenario
after 15 years of Congress Government <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Restoration of Peace and Normalcy has taken place. <b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Effective Counter Insurgency and Better Law and
Order has yielded results<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Many groups have left violence<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">During the last 10 years, the Gross State Domestic
Product (GSDP) of Assam has shown a favourable growth.<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The rate of growth of GSDP was 4.07% in 2001-02
which has increased to 14.85% in 2013-14<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As per Economic Survey, Assam has now surpassed the
Country's Growth in Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) with 12.5% in 2013-14 and
15.9% in 2014-15. While the National Growth Rate is 11.1%<b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Agriculture Growth which was negative in 2000-2001
has touched almost 5% in 2014-15<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">During the last fourteen years from 2000-01, Assam
has achieved 40% increase in the contribution of Agriculture to GDP<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Assam has been able to lower Infant Mortality Rate
(IMR) by 14 points from 68 in 2005 to 54 in 2013, Yet it is still below all
India average of 40<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Similarly, due to Assam Government's efforts, we
have reduced the Maternal Mortality Rate by 180 points (from 480 in 2004-06 to
300 in 2011-13)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">23764 km length of blacktop roads have been
constructed in the state from 2002 to 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3500 Bridges on Road were built in Assam and Assam
Govt constructed 6 new bridges on Brahmaputra.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Almost 17 lakh IAY houses have been constructed
between 2001- 2015<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Out of School Children (OSC) have been reduced from
24.38% in 2002-03 to just 1.64% in 2014-15<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">More than 72000 teachers have been appointed in
Primary and Secondary Schools<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">More than 13 Lakh people in Assam are working under
Mahatma Gandhi NREGA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8 Lakh people benefitted from Rural Electrification
Scheme of UPA in Assam- Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Assam Govt was the first to start Assam Arogya
Nidhi- Distribution of Free Medicines for Poor, which was later implemented by
UPA and renamed by Modi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">It
is only state where dowry is non-existent. As a matter of fact, the entire nation
should try to emulate the example of Assam, so that dowry can be eliminated
totally.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">About
Assamese women, Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Assamese women
can weave dreams through their handlooms”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There is 30% Reservation for Women in Govt jobs in
Assam<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">More than 2.71 Lakh Women work in Self Help Groups
(SHG’s) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In 2013, The State Government established the first
Women University in Assam<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Popular Schemes <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Take the case of distribution of mosquito nets and
blankets to the poor in Assam. It protects the poor from catching diseases like
malaria, common in the belt. It also helps Assam government as they don’t have
to then spend a lot of money and other resources if a large number of people
don’t catch that disease annually<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For the last 10 years, Assam is the only state that
has been giving a computer to a school pass-out who gets above 60% marks. It is
much appreciated by the people<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This is to help an unmarried woman avoid getting
financially dependent on her family. No state has thought of such a scheme.
When a girl child is born in Assam, we help her family open a bank account and
give a one-time Rs 5000 grant for her education.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Recently, we created six more districts to bring
administration closer to people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Factors & Issues <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sarbananda
Sonowal<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Has not done anything concrete for Assam- both as
the Skill Development Minister and the Sports and Youth Affairs Minister in the
Modi Government.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As Sports Minister- Did Not built a single stadium
for Assam in the last 2 years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The South Asian Games were organized, although he
vied for the credit, but it hardly got any media coverage or accolades. People appreciated
the work of Tarun Gogoi as the President of Assam Olympic Association during
the Games. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sonowal is the same man who brought a corruption
charge against Sarma in the Louise Berger case and now he is siding with him,
all to win an election.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sonowal is the same man who was instrumental in
removing the IMTD Act brought by the Indira Gandhi Government. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sealing
of Borders to curb Illegal Immigration <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i>The 4096 kilometer long India-Bangladesh is one of the most difficult to patrol because of the topography, riverine patches, dense forested hills, agricultural lands and human settlements.<br /> <br />The porous nature of the border has led to numerous trans-border problems including infiltration, smuggling, of arms and drugs (phensidyl, narcotics etc), contraband goods, illegal movement of persons, and common crimes such as kidnapping for ransom, cattle lifting, extortion etc. A fence is being built along the border to ensure better border management and to check illegal cross border movement.</i></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i>Construction of the barbed-wire fence along the Assam stretch of the Indo-Bangladesh border would be completed by the end of 2016</i></h3>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Source: <a href="http://bit.ly/1WWCEqT">http://bit.ly/1WWCEqT</a> </h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
This was in full swing during the Congress led UPA</h3>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i>“Construction of a 76-km barbed wire fence on the border with Bangladesh in Dhubri district of Assam is in full swing. The fence, located 150 yards from the zero line, will replace the one erected in 1988.</i></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i><i>The Home Ministry sanctioned the fencing in June 2006 in the third phase of the Indo-Bangladesh Border Roads and Fence project launched in 1986 to prevent illegal immigration.”</i></h3>
<br />
Source: <a href="http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/article1193671.ece">http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/article1193671.ece</a> <br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
BJP has promised sealing of border with Bangladesh in their Manifesto to fool people, work for which was almost completed under UPA</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i>Citizenship to Hindu Migrants from Bangladesh</i></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">People
have not forgiven the BJP for its decision to give citizenship to the Hindu
Bangladeshis living in the State. It is a sentimental issue and BJP has played
with it. Assamese people will not forgive them for its decision to make illegal
Bangladeshis Indian citizens. Also, it gave Assam’s land to Bangladesh. When
the UPA II government wanted to solve the problem, the BJP came to the streets
in the state saying that Tarun Gogoi is siding with Bangladeshis, look what it
has done now! People will see though their double standards.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“This
move is a violation of the Assam accord that mandates that no migrant who moved
to Assam after 1971 is to be considered for citizenship,” said a senior AGP
leader. Stung, the AGP has decided to put up a “friendly fight” against the BJP
in six Assembly seats.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Assam
Accord<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Assam Accord was signed in the presence of the then Prime Minister late Rajiv
Gandhi in 1985 and ushered a new era of Peace in Assam. Several provisions have
of the Accord have been implemented (See Achievements: <a href="http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/assam_accord_1985.htm#Assam_Accord">http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/documents/papers/assam_accord_1985.htm#Assam_Accord</a>
) by successive Governments, and the Congress party is committed to implement
the remaining provisions of the Assam Accord in letter and in spirit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Assam
Gas Cracker Project<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In
February this year, just before elections PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rs 10000 Cr refinery, although
it was initiated and implemented by the Manmohan Singh Government. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">National
Register of Citizenship (NRC)<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
first phase of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam has
been completed in Sept 2015 itself , with over 66.90 lakh households submitting
forms linking themselves to either the NRC of 1951 or any of the electoral
rolls prior to 1971.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
state is now ready to begin the more difficult task of verifying the
applications.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Unique
to Assam, the NRC was prepared in 1951, immediately after the 1951 Census, to
document names of Indian citizens in the state in the backdrop of large-scale
migration from East Pakistan following Partition. The exercise is being
monitored by the Supreme Court<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Special
Status<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If
Modi government is so concerned about NE development, why has it then lifted
the special status from the region granted by the Gadgil-Mukherjee formula? By
doing so, you indirectly brought the North East at par with developed states
like Gujarat . How can we compete with them? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Backward
Region Grant Fund (BGRF) <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Modi
Government has also taken away the Backward Region Grant Fund from the state,
which was launched by former PM Manmohan Singh in 2007 to address persistent
regional imbalances in development.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">North
East Industrial Investor Programme policy<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Modi
Govt stopped the North East Industrial Investor Programme policy. Many
companies, who may not have a market in the northeast, had set up their
manufacturing units in Assam simply because that policy which gave them certain
incentives. Now that is gone. Who will come to invest in the northeast?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Central
funds for Assam floods.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Centre told the Assam Government to use funds from the state exchequer for
rehabilitation work and it will reimburse us but that fund has also not come
even after many reminders were sent. The Prime Minister did not even have the
time to visit Assam during the time of floods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Assam’s
demand for oil royalty.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Since
2008, Assam has been seeking that oil producing companies pay royalty to the
state on the well head price determined by the actual price of the crude oil
prevailing in the international market and not on the sale price as defined by
the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Gujarat went to court demanding the
same. The Supreme Court decided in its favour. Now, while the Modi government
is giving that price to Gujarat, it has refused to pay Assam. An SC order
should have applied to us also. Now, Assam is forced to go to the court because
of it. If this is not partiality, then what is?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Modi
has said one of his ministers will visit NE once a week<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What
is the use of it? When Sonowal was the Union skill development minister, Assam
Govt sent a district-wise proposal to empower our people but nothing happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Hyper
Nationalism of BJP<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
hyper religious nationalism that the BJP is propagating across the country will
not work in Assam. Take the question of beef eating. Many in the northeast eat
beef. For instance, all Nagas do. So are you saying all Nagas are
anti-nationals?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">AIUDF
and Muslims<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Assamese Muslims are with Congress. They will never vote for AIUDF simply
because that party has always worked only for the Bengali-speaking Muslims. The
Assamese Muslims are asserting their ethnicity now. In fact, many Assamese
Muslim students’ organisations have declared recently that they would not
support AIUDF.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rs
1000 Cr Package for Tea Garden Community.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Modi
promised Rs 1000 Cr for Bodos, but gave only Rs 50 Cr in this Budget, How can
we expect Rs 1000 Cr for Tea Garden
Community?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Congress
Manifesto for Assam,2016 : Highlights <o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizO5X_a1VfVgBw0uNT6LuGHKtm2DeRWtG1z3HKSQCYsnmr5Mh8YmRif8f-HtEUi2XqDVniI7YNTgf7oxhZAeOyx53CoTsxbGSNmyDq6GlkpjGlTO486zM7NZRkC0J8adGPEfOmOftV8ys/s1600/blog+imag+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizO5X_a1VfVgBw0uNT6LuGHKtm2DeRWtG1z3HKSQCYsnmr5Mh8YmRif8f-HtEUi2XqDVniI7YNTgf7oxhZAeOyx53CoTsxbGSNmyDq6GlkpjGlTO486zM7NZRkC0J8adGPEfOmOftV8ys/s1600/blog+imag+2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One member of each family in Assam will be provided
jobs if Congress returns to power in the state. If I come to power again, It
will ensure job to one member of each family. Our target is to give 10 lakh
jobs in both government and private sectors in the next five years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To classify families as ‘poor’ whose annual income
is less than Rs 2.5 lakh and give benefits accordingly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If voted to power, Congress will fill all vacant
teaching posts in schools and create two lakh more such posts in the next five
years. It will also regularise services of all the employees within next five
years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Special packages to small tea farmers, a special
package of Rs 2,000 crore for the development councils, while Rs 1,000 crore
each will be given to the hill and Barak valley districts. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Also, Rs 500-crore packages will be offered to each
Majuli island. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For those residing in ‘char’ islands, the Congress
Govt in Assam will dole out Rs 1,500 crore special package in five years, and
we promise to uplift the SCs and STs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Promise to distribute sugar through government-owned
subsidised supply stores. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Regarding erosion by the Brahmaputra river, steps will be initiated to recover the lost
land through scientific research so that those areas can be utilised for
industry and other purposes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Agriculture universities will be set up in Dhemaji
and Bongaigaon. For Barak valley, a mini secretariat will be set up there and
connectivity to the region will be improved. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The government will demand the Centre to construct a
new airport and set up a Gauhati High Court bench in the Barak valley.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-26667202784727721012016-02-07T03:37:00.002-08:002016-02-07T03:37:45.744-08:00The Economy is Sliding - 20 concrete points which prove that. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">20
months have passed, since the Mr. Narendra Modi led BJP Government came to
power, but he yet behaves as a leader in opposition clamouring for power.
Wherever he goes, instead of apologizing for the misdeeds of his own
Government, he yet repeats his parroted lines of blaming the opposition,
especially the Congress party for everything. Recently, in a public meeting in
Coimbatore, he said "The opposition
parties are showing their anger against the government in the Rajya Sabha by
blocking schemes that would benefit the poor,"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While
he has miserably failed to deliver on any front that deals with welfare and
relief to people, he constantly tries to play petty politics in an unending
electoral campaign.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; line-height: 115%;">Following are some worrying statistics which prove the
disastrous track record of this Government in managing India’s Economy- : <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <b>The Indian Economy grew at just 7.2% in the
first half of the financial year 2015-16, while it grew at 7.3% in the entire
financial year of 2014-15.</b> The economic growth remained flat in the 20
months of the Modi Government. This is after the base year to calculate the GDP
was revised so as to increase the numbers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Index
of Industrial Production </span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">recorded
a negative 3.2 which is the lowest in four years. This is the very barometer of
PM's “Make in India” dreams which is turning out to be a mere slogan just as
everything else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Purchasing
Manager Index</span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> fell
below 50 which formally signifies that there is contraction in the
manufacturing sector.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">4)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2015 saw 6 months of FII outflows from
capital markets, the <b>worst since the
global 2008 financial crisis. More than Rs 11126 Cr was withdrawn in the month
of January, this year- worst since past 8 years. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">5)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Rupee which was at Rs 58.5 to the
dollar when Mr. Modi took charge has slid <b>to
Rs 68.16 to the dollar</b> and continues to fall precipitously. A fall of 16.5%
since.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">6)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rural demand continues to be weak. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">7)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Private investment is stagnant.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Exports and corporate sales grew by
25-30% in the last decade; today, exports are -5% and corporate sales 0%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">8)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Consumer
prices (CPI inflation) are rising</span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
amidst all this due to increase in service taxes. Consumer inflation up 5.6%.
Consumer inflation edged up for the fifth straight month in December on rising
food prices<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">9)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Food
inflation up 6.1%<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">10)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Capital Goods demand contracts 24.4%.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">11)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Freight Volumes by rail and sea are
stagnant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">12)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Cement production is weak. Core sectors
are suffering. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">13)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">New Capital Expenditure projects have
shrunk.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">14)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">New projects worth only Rs. 1 lakh
crore were announced in the December 2015 quarter, down from Rs. 4 lakh crore
in December 2014. <b>This is the lowest in the past 5 quarters.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">15)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The <b>value of abandoned projects also increased by 19% in 2015</b> compared
to the same period in 2014. The transport infrastructure and storage sector
accounted for 60% of these abandoned projects.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 40.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">16)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Confidence of <b>India Inc is fast fading.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">17)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 million Indians entering job markets
in India have no opportunities. Jobs have contracted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">18)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There has been a windfall advantage of
a historic low in the prices of international crude, but <b>the benefits of this are not been passed on to the consumer.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">19)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Government talks about Make in
India but the driver of manufacturing in India which is <b>the SME sector not receiving lending.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">20)<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Under
MGNREGA, instead of a 100 days only an average 39.98 days of employment is been
made available to workers, despite severe rural distress<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
greater cause for concern is that since it came to power the Modi Government
has systematically neglected and weakened the social sector schemes which had
been put in place by previous Governments. These schemes and programmes were
aimed at helping the poorest in India. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
few may recall the current PM’s fondness, in 2013, of asking whether the rupee
will fall to a point where it exceeds the former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh’s age.
In an ironic twist of fate, the rupee has, on his watch, fallen past the ages
of the current PM and the FM. At the rate at which it is going, it won’t be
surprising if it crosses the ages of the veterans he has retired to the BJP’s
margdarshak mandal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
Modi Government continues on its campaign of ‘India Shining’ while the rural
population suffers. It’s high time a the Modi Government does a course
correction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-67292255975097615792015-12-30T04:05:00.003-08:002015-12-30T04:19:38.715-08:00How Modi Sarkar has failed the Indian Economy <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Indian Economy grew at just 7.2% in the first half of the financial year 2015-16, while it grew at 7.3% in the entire financial year of 2014-15. The economic growth remained flat in the 19 months of the Modi Government</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />There are four key components which contribute to aggregate demand growth-the most visible symptom of economic health – <b>private consumption, private investment, government investment (focusing on government expenditure) and exports.</b> Unlike the boom years 2004-12 where the economy was driven by all four components of demand, the striking difference about this year is that the economy is driven only by private consumption and to an extent by government investment. The two other factors of ‘private investment’ and ‘exports’ have remained sluggish leading to a drag in growth. <br /><br /><br /><b>Private Consumption: </b><br /><br />Private consumption has been the bright spot in the economy. This has been emphasized in the‘Mid-Year Economic Analysis’ recently released by the Ministry of Finance. <br /><br />“In 2015-16, if oil prices remain at about US$50 per barrel for the Indian basket for the rest of the year, the average oil price decline will be about 40 percent. This positive term of trade shock to the Indian economy would amount roughly to 2.2 percentage points” <br /><br />Directly (household purchase of petroleum products) and indirectly (higher corporate margins passed on to consumers as lower prices and higher wages and salaries to government officials), about half of this could lead to higher private consumption. <br /><br />In fact, According to the figures released by Ministry of Petroleum, Global Crude oil price of Indian Basket was US$ 33.33 per bbl (as on December 17, 2015), so going by that logic the positive impact on the Indian economy would be more than just 2.2 percentage points and the private consumption should increase. One important point to ponder is as to whether the real benefits of these lower prices are being passed on to consumers or not? <br /><br /><b>Private Investment: </b><br /><br />Another factor which resulted in the drag of growth was – private investment. Why is the private investment weak? The balance sheets of corporate India have been highly stressed. According to an analysis done by Credit Suisse (which is based on 11000 companies) there is a large debt accumulated by certain corporate groups since 2012. <br /><br />Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor, Raghuram Rajan, highlighted the problem almost as soon as he took over in 2014. <br /><br /><b><i>Two data points are relevant in this context: </i></b><br /><br />A fifth of the listed non-government, non-financial companies are now categorized as leveraged. These are companies that have a negative net worth or a debt-equity ratio of more than two times. And 15% of these firms fall in the “highly leveraged” category. The proportion of both leveraged and highly leveraged companies has risen between September last year and this year. <br /><br /> In the unlisted universe, data for which is only available till the end of the financial year 2014, about a quarter of the firms (both public limited and private limited) fell into a category defined as “weak”. These are firms that have an interest coverage ratio of 1. <br /><br /><b>Government Investment: </b><br /><br />Although the Government claims that that its investment has been on an upswing, with an increase by about 29%, since the previous 2 quarters, but this supposed positive contribution of public investment, is offset by a combination of lowering of other expenditures and higher tax receipts. This factor has had little effect on the demand in growth. <br /><br /><b>Exports: </b><br /><br />The fourth important factor which impacts the demand of growth is the weakness of exports. Exports from India showed a declining trend for 12 months in a row. Exports during November 2015 stood at $ 20.01 billion, 24.43% lower than $ 26.48 billion during November, 2014 and $21.35 billion in October 2015. <br /><br />The trade deficit for November 2015 was $9.78 billion, down 39.74% from $16.23 billion in November 2014. The deficit was $9.76 in October 2015. <br /><br />However, the most recent data suggest that neither India’s exports nor imports have lost any significant global market share till atleast the end of 2014. Thus, declining exports seem to be predominantly determined by a decline in global demand. But this preposition may be considered with a pinch of salt. <br /><br /><b><i>So let us now examine some key economic indicators which are driving the Indian economy at this juncture:</i></b><br /><br /><b>Growth: </b><br /><br />The first three quarters of the financial year (FY) 2015-16 have shown robust growth both in terms of GVA (Gross Value Addition) and GDP, which at constant market prices has improved. Economic growth, prima facie, too is showing signs of steady recovery. The latest GDP estimates suggest in the first half of 2015-16 it grew at 7.2 percent as compared to 7.5 percent in the first half of FY2015. In contrast, nominal GDP growth declined substantially from 13.5 percent in first quarter of FY2015 to just 7.4 percent in the first quarter of FY2016.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrU7ztTp_6b_MnVfwXsyWs8YDtedMAwHVsIMja5CpH69n904uXNz746Yb4KXYzns7sljRYBjjQfI-oJ56jDwEkGbCTT-rYoDOgi1CsF2FyRVN7JbJRHOS4N3lt4SXDE2taNTEE-vMpXE/s1600/GVA1.PNG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrU7ztTp_6b_MnVfwXsyWs8YDtedMAwHVsIMja5CpH69n904uXNz746Yb4KXYzns7sljRYBjjQfI-oJ56jDwEkGbCTT-rYoDOgi1CsF2FyRVN7JbJRHOS4N3lt4SXDE2taNTEE-vMpXE/s640/GVA1.PNG" /></a><br /><br />As discussed earlier, private investment and exports are being a drag on the demand of growth. <b>The Mid-Year Economic Review has lowered the growth projections to 7-7.5% in this financial year from 8.1-8.5% projected at the start of the year.</b> Even more importantly, the review’s recommendations on action implicitly suggest that growth next year could further slow down. <br /><br />The Reserve Bank in its annual financial stability report (FSR), flags “risks arising from erratic climatic conditions, limited policy space, corporate performance…and low investment growth…could pose challenges”<br /><br />The remarkable thing about 2015-16 growth performance is that it continues to be as strong as it is given the weakness of exports (because of declining world markets) and private investment. In the boom years, exports were adding 1.9 percentage points to demand whereas in 2015-16, export demand has been negative (-1.1 percentage points). <br /><br />The difference with the boom years, on account of exports is thus 3 percentage points. Similarly, private investment contributed 3.2 percentage points and only 1 percentage point in the current year. These two components of demand should have reduced growth by 5.3 percentage points. And yet, actual growth is only 2-2.5 percentage points less. <br /><br />Reforms initiatives could provide the stimulus for fresh investment, which should translate into greater private investment.<br /><br /><b>Inflation: </b><br /><br />Inflation has continued to moderate steadily. Consumer price inflation has declined from 5.4 percent in February 2015 to 5 percent in October 2015. The WPI has been in negative territory for 12 months since November 2014 and is in negative at (-) 3.8 percent in October 2015. In an irony of sorts, the Government perhaps takes pride that Rural wage growth and minimum support price increases—important determinants of inflation—have remained muted. <br /><br />The recent decline in WPI inflation was broad-based and mainly due to falling fuel prices. As fuel has proportionately larger weightage in WPI, the decline in fuel prices led to a sharper fall in WPI as compared to CPI. Fuel and manufactured products account for the bulk of decline in WPI. Inflation based on Consumer Price Index which remained sticky around 9-10 per cent during 2012-14 moderated to 5.9 percent in 2014-15 and further to 4.6 percent in 2015-16 (April-October) <br /><br />This striking wedge between the two has been rising steadily and reached unprecedented high of 8.5percentage points in the second quarter of FY2016. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><b>Price Rise in Pulses </b><br /><br />Inflation in pulses has seen a phenomenal rising trend in the current year although general inflation has declined. WPI and CPI inflation in pulses which was low at -10.7 and 0.6 per cent respectively in October 2013 increased to 53 per cent and 42.2 per cent respectively in October 2015. The contribution of pulses to CPI inflation also increased to 19.4 per cent in October 2015 from a low of 0.1 per cent in October 2013. <br /><br />While overall sowing of pulses is more than last year, that’s not the case for crucial crops such as Tur (Arhar) because of dry spells in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, which are the key growing areas. The most affected crops are Tur (Arhar), Jowar and Soybean. <br /><br />Pulses, production has suffered due to lower output in 2014, damages due to unseasonal rains and hail storms in March 2015 and shortfall in sowing (especially Tur) this year. As a result, inflation in pulses stands at an average 20% this year so far, with August inflation crossing 25%and surging to 42% for Tur. It surged to 160% in September and 201% in first week of October. <br /><br /> <br /><b>Fiscal Deficit: </b><br /><br />The country has witnessed robust growth, low inflation, manageable current account deficit and prudent fiscal management in the first half of the current year. However, low inflation has also meant that the GDP growth in nominal terms is lower than what was projected at the time of preparing the Budget. This, along with lower than expected receipts from disinvestment proceeds, could make the achievement of fiscal targets challenging. <br /><br />Though the fiscal sector registered some notable successes, it is also true that the decline in nominal GDP growth relative to the budget assumption will pose a challenge for meeting the fiscal deficit target of 3.9 per cent of GDP. Slower-than-anticipated nominal GDP growth (8.2 percent versus budget estimate of 11.5) will itself raise the deficit target by 0.2 percent of GDP. The anticipated shortfall in disinvestment receipts, owing to adverse market conditions for a portfolio that largely comprises commodity stocks, will add to the challenge. <br /><br /> <br /><b>Infrastructure and Industry: </b><br /><br />As per the latest national accounts estimates of GDP for the second quarter (July-September) of 2015-16 indicated earlier, manufacturing registered a growth of 9.3 per cent compared to 7.9 per cent in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. This revival in the overall growth of the economy is reflected in the growth of index of industrial production (IIP) as well. While there are better and more reliable indicators of industrial activity available, it is the IIP with its limitations, which is available on a monthly basis with a lag of 42 days and as such is useful in indicating the broad trends. <br /><br /> <br />The eight core infrastructure supportive industries, with an overall weight of 37.9 per cent in IIP, registered a year on year growth of 2.3 per cent during April-September, 2015-16 as against the growth of 5.1 per cent during the corresponding period of the previous financial year <br /><br />The decrease in growth rate during April-September, 2015 can be attributed to lower growth in electricity, coal and cement sectors and negative growth in steel and natural gas sectors. <br /><br />Refinery products registered positive growth, crude oil sector has shown marginal increase in growth and fertilizers sector has shown an impressive growth in April-September, 2015 as compared to the corresponding period of the last year. <br /><br />The major listed mining companies in the private corporate sector grew by 8 per cent and 5.4 per cent respectively at current prices in quarter one (Q1) and quarter two (Q2) of 2015-16. <br /><br />The key constituents of mining sector, namely, production of coal, crude oil and natural gas grew by 0.9 per cent, 1.7 per cent and 0.5 per cent during Q2 2015-16. Coal had grown by 7.3 per cent in Q1 2015-16. The mining sector, thus, needs to gain momentum to keep pace with the increasing requirements of the economy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Conclusion</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The state of the economy is a matter of grave national concern.The GDP growth has been almost flat; investment sentiment is poor as apparent from virtual non creation of Capital Assets, and there has been a sharp escalation in the Debt to GDP Ratio.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Despite benign rate of inflation and achievable fiscal targets, there has to be a word of caution for the growth trajectory, which is evident from the fact that growth figures have been downgraded to 7-7.5% now, even in the Government’s official Mid-Year Review. The initial optimism of the Economic Survey which was presented in the beginning of the year has faded. Even the World Bank has indicated that it will have to relook at India’s macro-economic estimates and probably downgrade the growth figures</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>For 12 continuous months the merchandise exports have been in a free fall resulting in loss of tens of thousands of jobs in the Manufacturing Sector</b>. A Government that had come to power promising 2 Crore jobs annually has led us to a situation, which is characterized by mounting job losses and abject failure to reinvigorate economic growth. This has led to despair and despondency amongst the youth. <br /><br /><b> This Government, has managed to achieve the dubious distinction of messing the economy despite the fact, that it has got the unprecedented and windfall advantage of a historic low in the prices of international crude.</b> However, leave apart passing the benefits of these low prices to the consumers of the country, the Government has increased the central excise on petroleum products seven times to fill its coffers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Overall, the Narendra Modi Government has failed the nation's expectations when it comes to its economy. </b></span></div>
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Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8826543853815488784.post-71718522438223085692015-12-26T23:48:00.001-08:002015-12-27T00:15:24.487-08:00Why Narendra Modi’s Pakistan policy is hardly innovative<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The Bharatiya Janata
Party’s approach towards Pakistan swings like a wild pendulum. They make
hawkish statements when out of power and cuddle the neighbour with an impromptu
hug when in power- without imagining the repercussions of either. The recent ‘sudden’
halt by the Prime Minister in Lahore while coming back from Kabul is another such
addition to the motion of this swinging pendulum. Home Minister Rajnath Singh
has hailed this ‘stop-over’ by the PM as an example of “innovative diplomacy”
and Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj has called the PM ‘statesman like”. But
hardly of the two are true. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Flashback June 2015,
when the Foreign Minister on record stated that there will be <a href="http://www.firstpost.com/world/no-talks-pakistan-long-lakhvi-free-modi-proactive-pm-sushma-swaraj-2272238.html">no
talks with Pakistan</a> as long as Zaki-ur-rehman Lakhvi or Hafiz Sayeed (both
master minds of the Mumbai 26/11 attack) remain free. Then come July and the
BJP’s spokespersons were claiming victory after the Ufa talks of the ‘big
breakthrough’ on terror related talks. This was nothing new. In a <a href="http://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/6339/Joint_Statement_IndiaPakistan_in_HavanaCuba">Joint
Statement</a>, way back in September, 2006 after a Summit bilateral in Havana
between Dr ManmohanSingh and the then Pakistan President Gen. Pervez Musharraf,
Pakistan not only “agreed that terrorism is a scourge that needs to be
effectively dealt with” but also “decided to put in place an India-Pakistan
anti-terrorism institutional mechanism to identify and implement
counter-terrorism initiatives and investigations”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Similarly, in the <a href="http://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/20530/Joint_Statement_issued_by_India_and_Pakistan_during_the_visit_of_External_Affairs_Minister_to_Pakistan">Joint
Statement</a> issued after a bilateral meeting between the then Foreign
Ministers of India and Pakistan on September 8, 2012, Pakistan had not only
agreed to “fight terrorism in an effective and comprehensive manner, so as to
eliminate the scourge in allits forms
and manifestations” , but alsocommitted to “bring all the perpetratorsof the
Mumbai terror attacks to justice expeditiously”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><i><b>A series of events
preceded the much hyped Ufa talks:- </b></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">1. The Prime Minister
in a dramatic move invited the Prime Minister of Pakistan for his swearing in
ceremony on May 26, 2014. This was followed by the now infamous ‘Saari-Shawl’
and mango diplomacy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">2. This was followed by
again a much touted declaration of Foreign Secretary level talks between the
two countries on July 23, 2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">3. Even as this
bonhomie was being touted, Pakistan continued its violation of the Indian
borders and intensified firings and shelling manifold. Its High Commissioner in
India dared us by audaciously meeting the Shabir Shah, a leading Kashmiri
separatist to discuss Kashmir.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">4. Amidst severe
criticism the Government then decided to withdraw from the Foreign Secretary
talks on August 18, 2014. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">5. This flip flop was
followed by Pakistani courts first granting bail to and then releasing the
dreaded terrorist and prime accused in the Mumbai 26/11 attack
Zaki-ur-rehmanLakhvi in absence of the Pakistan Government providing ample
prosecution evidence. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">6. Even as Modi’s
Government and his Minister Rajyawardhan Singh Rathore were undiplomatically
celebrating covert counter terrorist operations in Myanmar, the Pakistan
Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan on June 10, 2015, ‘threatened and warned’
India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">7. On July 8, 2015, the
Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif threatened India with a Nuclear attack.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">8. Even while the Prime
Minister was preparing for his talks with his Pakistani counterpart, Pakistan
shamelessly violated the LoC in Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir killing two
Jawans and injuring one over July 8th and 9th<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>Then comes August 2015 –
The Udhampur terror attack on BSF convoy and the Gurdaspur</b> terror attack followed.
In a blatant show of aggression, Heavily Armed Terrorists using Chinese made
grenades from Pakistan walked into Gurdaspur unhindered and killed 10 civilians
and 7 security personnel including a Superintendent of Punjab Police. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In September, <b>Modi
Government in another about-face of sorts called of the much publicized
National Security Advisor level talks.</b> Much drama was created by both sides and
Modi’s spokespersons emphasized the need of having a dialogue on terror while
Pakistan pushed for the K-word. At the end the entire theatrics ended in
calling off the NSA level talks. Modi Government’s unpreparedness and lack of
backchannel talks with Pakistan was thoroughly exposed in this disaster of
sorts. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>Before coming to the
present, let us rewind into the BJP’s record viz-a-viz terror and Pakistan.</b> Let
us recall the Vajpayee-Nawaz Sharif era. To understand BJP’s foreign policy, it
is very essential to look back at three most important events- <b>Kargil,
Parliament attack and Operation Parakram. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">After testing a Nuclear
Bomb, a month after assuming office- certainly prepared by the previous
Narasimha Rao Government, Atal Behari Vajpayee shook hands with Nawaz Sharif
and inaugurated the Lahore Bus. Vajpayee wanted to be statesmen, and certainly
for every Indian Prime Minister (barring few exceptions like Indira Gandhi)
peace with Pakistan certainly means etching their name in history. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcBQQwqXHiTwLJ199PajOubu38B1mDo2hCU8EuuRPAQhoxYaNwqOTmcVJpH6aB7Oi1_o7P1a38vgMrvNl2Q2-LmHH4AzwjuQe4Ng1t9oWVUY1e_3UoXECeulZZKTGh8nk-3MTg5wVkts/s1600/kargil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcBQQwqXHiTwLJ199PajOubu38B1mDo2hCU8EuuRPAQhoxYaNwqOTmcVJpH6aB7Oi1_o7P1a38vgMrvNl2Q2-LmHH4AzwjuQe4Ng1t9oWVUY1e_3UoXECeulZZKTGh8nk-3MTg5wVkts/s400/kargil.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The bus to Lahore went
nowhere and Kargil happened. Vajpayee and the entire BJP Government and
administration were caught snoozing when Pakistan attacked India with the help
of Kashmiri militants. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Some contrarian views
suggest that Atal Behari <a href="http://www.antisystemic.org/satribune/www.satribune.com/archives/jun13_19_04/P1_arun.htm">Vajpayee
knew about</a> the Kargil infiltration long back, but he did nothing in time,
and more than 500 lives of army men were lost. The intelligence failure leading
to Kargil is pardonable and is of lesser relevance here. The only reason that
India lost so many precious soldiers, was because Vajpayee restrained the army
from crossing the LoC (Line of Control).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The government bungled
before the war broke out. India's military and intelligence establishments
erred in assessing the indicators.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It came as a shock for
the Kargil Review Committee (headed by defense analyst K Subrahmanyam) when a
lady officer at Army Headquarters told it that General Ved Prakash Malik, then
chief of army staff, got a report of intrusions by Pakistanis a day before he
was to leave for Poland on an official visit. General Malik instructed his
office not to forward the report until his return.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The Vajpayee
Government’s naivety caused the loss of <a href="http://pib.nic.in/feature/feyr2000/fjul2000/f210720001.html">atleast 527</a>
Indian soldiers and <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20080216231524/http:/164.100.24.219/rsq/quest.asp?qref=3798">1363
soldiers were left wounded</a>. They were busy with “peace fever”. Across the
board there was a craving for friendship with Pakistan. Military and
intelligence personnel neglected all indicators about General Pervez
Musharraf's duplicity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Kargil also showed our
military leaders in poor light. Even when they started getting reports of the
intrusion, they underplayed it, at high cost. Defence Minister George Fernandes
termed it, initially, a 'small intrusion.' Even a cursory look at the
newspapers of April-May 1999 makes the government's attempt to underplay the
event evident.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Although we should
salute the brave men who made supreme sacrifices and India won the war, but it
further exposed the pusillanimity of the BJP Government <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">First came the Lahore
Bus ride, then Kargil, then a ceasefire, then calls for a final war (aar-paar
ki ladaai) with Pakistan and finally the much-trumpeted thaw in Indo-Pak
relations. All through the BJP Government made attempts at peace and war,
innocent Indian citizens continue to be slaughtered. <b>India’s symbols of
Democracy, the Red Fort and the Parliament, have not been spared while the
Prime Minister oscillates between playing a dove and a hawk.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In December 2001,
Parliament attack followed. To avenge the Parliament attack, the BJP led
Vajpayee Government again made a terrible mistake in which hundreds of our
soldiers lost their lives without even fighting Pakistan at the border. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Perhaps the biggest and
the most lesser known failures of the Vajpayee Government was Operation
Parakaram. Vajpayee Government in its zeal to counter Pakistan’s hand in the
Parliament attack began mobilization of troops at the Indo-Pak border. This
resulted in a 10 month standoff between the two countries. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The Kargil conflict led
to the death of 527 Indian soldiers while heroically taking back heights
occupied by Pakistanis in 1999. <b>Shockingly, without going to war, 1874 Indian
Soldiers died! </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Usually extremely
tight-lipped about casualty figures, the defence minister George Fernandes had
to disclose them in the Rajya Sabha. "The number of Army personnel killed
or wounded in Jammu and Kashmir and the western sector during the mobilisation,
<b>Operation Parakram, from December 19, 2001 to October 16, 2002, was
1,874," said Defence Minister George Fernandes on April 30, 2003</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This, by any benchmark,
is a truly staggering figure for a 10-month period, even if the
counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir are taken into account. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In the initial phase of
Operation Parakram itself, after the December 2001 Parliament attack, over 100
soldiers were killed and 250 injured during mine-laying operations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Vehicle
accidents, artillery duels with Pakistan and other incidents led to many more
casualties. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Relentless
counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir are also, of course,
exacting a heavy toll on the soldiers, with over 1,000 being killed in
terrorist activity between 2000-2003<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">So the “Nationalist”
BJP is not only responsible for killing 527 soldiers in Kargil, it is also
responsible for killing 1874 more soldiers due of this humongous misadventure! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The cost of sustaining
Operation Parakram was reported to be have been pegged by India’s National
Security Advisory Board (NSAB) at Rs 7 crore a day. This works out to
approximately <a href="http://www.indiandefencereview.com/spotlights/lost-opportunities-in-operation-parakram/">Rs
2,100 crore over 10 months</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>Let us now again come
back to the events which preceded Narendra Modi’s much talked about sudden
visit to Pakistan. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Sushma Swaraj went to Islamabad for the ‘Heart of Asia Summit’ which was multinational exercise in which she met Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif. This was all a calculated exercise after the noise of the NSA talk disaster was over. All was good. But even before that something unusual happened on the sidelines of the November 2014 SAARC Summit.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Certain sections of the
media had today reported that the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met his
Pakistan counterpart, <b>Shri Nawaz Sharif and held extensive talks utilizing the
good offices of a private industrialist as a mediator.</b> This meeting, if it
happened, took place despite categorical denial on part of the Government about
many having been planned, leave apart, a meeting having taken place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Infact it was
underlined and publicly stated in the media that "While the PM had
bilateral meetings with all other 5 heads of government's on the side lines of
the SAARC summit", none happened with Pakistan. The Government then said,
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held
bilateral talks with all Heads of Government and State attending the 18th SAARC
Summit in November 2014 with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif the only
conspicuous exemption.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">External Affairs
Ministry Spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said, "It was decided earlier that
there will be no structured talks as no requests had come... I said it before
we are ready for a meaningful bilateral dialogue. When circumstances are there,
we will have that dialogue. Nothing else....We are ready when they are
ready."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Asked whether Prime
Ministers of India and Pakistan will exchange pleasantries at the dinner or at
the retreat tomorrow, he only said "when a senior Indian leader and senior
Pakistani leader come face to face, they exchange courtesies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>The dilly dallying on
an issue as sensitive and detrimental like our relations with Pakistan has been
visible ever since Shri Modi's Government assumed office.</b> Be it the posturing
at the swearing in of Shri Modi, invitation to Kashmiri separatists by the
Pakistan High Commission, subsequent bail and release of accused of Mumbai
26/11, unprecedented violations by Pakistan from across the borders,
declaration and then cancellation of NSA talks on two occasions, blatant
disregard of Ufa joint statement by Pakistan or Pakistan raking up Kashmir and
third party mediation at UN, the nation's Pakistan policy has been nothing but
disastrous flip flops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A 160 second animated
meeting between the two Prime Ministers were followed up in Paris on December
1, 2015. Winter was covering South-Asia, but the ice between India and Pakistan
now seemed to be breaking. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>After being a mute
spectator to more than 900 ceasefire violations from across the border ,death
of 78 security personnel since June 2014 and 25% increase in cross border infiltration
this year, Narendra Modi Government was
now shifting from his hawkish mode to the ‘dove’ mode.</b> The same Government
which cancelled the NSA level talks in September held an NSA level talk in a
third country- Thailand, just four months after their stand that Kashmir and
all outstanding issues won’t be discussed. In Bangkok, a framework for a
comprehensive dialogue for every, yes each and every outstanding issue
including Kashmir was made between the two NSA’s who met secretly. <b>This was
done when the Indian Parliament was underway, and the Prime Minister or his
Foreign Minister did not even bother to inform the lawmakers of the country
about such a thing taking place at a neutral venue. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">With such blunders in
the Government's show case, the people of India were then told that NSA talks
happened in Bangkok as a continuation of the talks between PM and his Pakistani
counterpart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Former Prime Minister
Dr Manmohan Singh has often said that</b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><b style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>“we can choose our friends, but we have
no choice with regard to our neighbors”</i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Let us not be hypocritical
of our stand with Pakistan. Every Indian wants a meaningful, result oriented
dialogue with Pakistan, but not at the behest of our dead bodies. Narendra Modi
with all his political rhetoric during the Lok Sabha elections on Pakistan,
failed to keep his word. His self proclaimed ’56-inch’ chest seemed to have
vanished. Posturing is all very well when it comes to foreign affairs, but
pragmatism is the need of the hour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Narendra Modi’s so
called halt in Lahore is being termed as ‘innovative diplomacy’, but he seems
to be now only following the pragmatic diplomacy of Dr Manmohan Singh who kept
his word on Pakistan and never visited the country only for self publicity and
optics. Instead he concentrated on deliverables and always preferred dialogue
and result oriented talks with Pakistan, whether back channel or otherwise. It
is said he and Pakistan almost came to closing a dispute. This he did on his
own principles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>The section of the
media who is hailing Modi’s Pakistan policy right now is again falling into the
Vajpayee-Lahore-Kargil-Agra trap</b>. It is high time we bring some maturity and
gravitas to our foreign policy. Especially when we cannot choose our
neighbours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>For meaningful talks to
take place, India’s stand should always be consistent -certain core issues with
regards to unjustified belligerence on part of Pakistan involving cross border
terrorism, violation of ceasefire line and application of due process of law to
the accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks have to be put in place. Full Stop. </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Rachit Sethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01421716341063213670noreply@blogger.com0