After the change of government in Japan last weekend, climate change supporters are optimistic. They believe that the victorious Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ), which came to power by ending nearly 50 years of uninterrupted rule by the conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), will take a new look at the whole issue of global warming and the consequences.
Japanese environmentalists were alarmed when last June outgoing Prime Minister Taro Aso announced that the country would seek to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases by eight percent from 1990 levels by 2020. This goal was far lower than the European Union's target of 20 percent.
The Climate Change Project Leader at the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), world's largest environmental conservation organization, Masako Konishi condemned past policies of the Liberal Democrats:
“The new administration and their climate change strategy is much more ambitious than the old one. LDP has pledged 8% cut by 2020 compared to 1990 level."
The Prime Minister elect and leader of the Democratic Party Leader (DPJ), Yukio Hatoyama, has announced plans to cut back emissions by at least 25 percent by 2020. This is a remarkable turnaround in government policy. And it is in line with public sentiment.
A nationally representative survey of 976 Japanese of voting age found that more than six in ten Japanese favour a reduction target of 25% or more. 62 percent believe that the previous government did not do enough.
Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol is due to expire in 2012 and with the Japanese pushing the idea of further reductions in the emissions of greenhouse gases, new issues are likely to be on the table at the Copenhagen climate talks in December, says Masako Konishi:
“When the Kyoto Protocol expires we expect a new framework will already be in place. There should not be an information gap between the Kyoto Protocol and the new framework. We expect a very ambitious reduction target from the developed countries including United States. As well as financial support from developed countries to developing countries and enable a mitigation process in the new framework to have a safe future for the next generation.”
Big developing countries are now joining the industrialized nations as the chief polluters. But they - like India and China - have consistently refused to make any compulsory pledge to cut emissions by 2020 or beyond, saying this could stifle their economic development and prevent them from overcoming poverty.
Policy shift in Japan
In Japan climate change strategy is now clearly becoming a more important issue as global warming accelerates, sea levels rise and weather patterns change. The new ruling party appears to be more in line with public opinion having announced new tighter greenhouse gas reduction targets. But Taka Hiraishi who is on the Board of Directors and a Senior Consultant at The Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) warns that the new government will still have to face up to difficulties tough emission targets pose for the economy:
“The major victory of the DPJ two weeks ago was not influenced very much by the difference on political positions on climate change between the LDP and DPJ. When climate actions start hitting economy – if Japan seeks to go to minus 25 % from 1990, it would require more stringent and substantial controls. DPJ government will need to address this, and it will have economic implications. But there will continue to be larger issues in the near term - such as in 2010 Upper House election.”
Against this background the new government will face tough choices when its honeymoon period in office is over. Will the Japanese still accept tough ceilings on greenhouse gas emissions if this hurts the economic recovery and the creation of new jobs? It is impossible to answer this question at the present time, but the clock is ticking.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Grahame Lucas
Deutsche Welle
Monday, October 19, 2009
Pakistan's Returnees Need Urgent Help
The number of refugees who have returned to their homes in northwest Pakistan after fleeing because of military offensives has reached 1.65 million. The anti-Taliban offensives in Pakistan this year have resulted in one of the largest internal displacements of people ever. A new offensive in Khyber district has caused up to 100,000 to flee. The United Nations is on the ground to provide assistance.
The recent anti-Taliban offensives in Swat and Bajaur Agency have left approximately 2,000 militants and 170 security personnel dead, according to the army. They have also forced hundreds of thousands of civilians to leave their homes. Although most have returned to Swat, which the army says is safe, many of the refugees have chosen to stay with their relatives. Others remain in refugee camps.
Those who have gone home have not been able to pick up their lives as they left them at all. Billi Bierling from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) in Islamabad said that “many of the returnees found their houses damaged or destroyed, in particular in Bajaur Agency in the tribal areas. The micro-infrastructure -- internal roads, bridges and water channels -- was also damaged during the conflict. Many farmers lost a lot of their crops and livestock in Swat, Buner, Lower Dir and Bajaur.
“The National Agricultural Centre and the humanitarian community are distributing seeds, tools, lentils to farmers in the affected districts to help them get back on their feet again. Help is also needed in the areas of return to support the resumption of government administration. Governance, non-agricultural livelihoods, basic community infrastructure and the environment are specific sectors that need assistance.”
Children in urgent need of good education
Education is also an area that has suffered. Hundreds of primary and secondary schools were destroyed or partly damaged in the region.
As part of its “Welcome to School” initiative UNICEF is trying to provide temporary learning spaces and educational supplies so that some 500,000 children, who have gone back home, can continue their education.
It has prioritised the repair and rebuilding of over 3,000 schools in the region. Some schools have been converted into centres for displaced people so UNICEF is trying to provide alternative spaces.
It is also supporting education initiatives within the camps for internally-displaced people. Jasmine Pittenger from UNICEF Pakistan said that 8,000 children were getting support in the camps and school tents had been set up. 15 host community schools had received extra funding.
But she added that more funding was needed “to provide quality education for children, especially for girls, amongst the ‘returnee’ population affected by the conflict, as well as for children who are still displaced and living in camps or host families.” She said that almost 14 million euros were still required.
Malnutrition is a major concern
Some families have refused to go back to their homes if the government does not provide more funds, food and help. They are also scared, as Billy Bierling explains: “The security in North West Frontier Province (NWFP), especially in Swat District, is still very unstable. Even though the numbers of returnees look very positive, the returnees are still faced with problems, concerning security, damage of houses, crops, livestock and schools. There is certainly a huge need for humanitarian aid in the areas of return.”
Another major concern is malnutrition and more funding is needed. Jasmine Pittenger explained that “two malnutrition stabilisation centres have opened in District Headquarter hospitals in Mardan and Swabi Districts and two more are to be established in Swat and Buner Districts, as well as one in D.I. Khan District by the end of September. The UN's overall health response, which includes nutrition as an important component, is only 38 percent funded to date.”
Experts say that while a lot is being done for Pakistan's displaced persons, an urgent increase in funding is necessary to improve health, security and education in the affected areas.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Thomas Bärthlein
Deutsche Welle/Bonn
The recent anti-Taliban offensives in Swat and Bajaur Agency have left approximately 2,000 militants and 170 security personnel dead, according to the army. They have also forced hundreds of thousands of civilians to leave their homes. Although most have returned to Swat, which the army says is safe, many of the refugees have chosen to stay with their relatives. Others remain in refugee camps.
Those who have gone home have not been able to pick up their lives as they left them at all. Billi Bierling from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) in Islamabad said that “many of the returnees found their houses damaged or destroyed, in particular in Bajaur Agency in the tribal areas. The micro-infrastructure -- internal roads, bridges and water channels -- was also damaged during the conflict. Many farmers lost a lot of their crops and livestock in Swat, Buner, Lower Dir and Bajaur.
“The National Agricultural Centre and the humanitarian community are distributing seeds, tools, lentils to farmers in the affected districts to help them get back on their feet again. Help is also needed in the areas of return to support the resumption of government administration. Governance, non-agricultural livelihoods, basic community infrastructure and the environment are specific sectors that need assistance.”
Children in urgent need of good education
Education is also an area that has suffered. Hundreds of primary and secondary schools were destroyed or partly damaged in the region.
As part of its “Welcome to School” initiative UNICEF is trying to provide temporary learning spaces and educational supplies so that some 500,000 children, who have gone back home, can continue their education.
It has prioritised the repair and rebuilding of over 3,000 schools in the region. Some schools have been converted into centres for displaced people so UNICEF is trying to provide alternative spaces.
It is also supporting education initiatives within the camps for internally-displaced people. Jasmine Pittenger from UNICEF Pakistan said that 8,000 children were getting support in the camps and school tents had been set up. 15 host community schools had received extra funding.
But she added that more funding was needed “to provide quality education for children, especially for girls, amongst the ‘returnee’ population affected by the conflict, as well as for children who are still displaced and living in camps or host families.” She said that almost 14 million euros were still required.
Malnutrition is a major concern
Some families have refused to go back to their homes if the government does not provide more funds, food and help. They are also scared, as Billy Bierling explains: “The security in North West Frontier Province (NWFP), especially in Swat District, is still very unstable. Even though the numbers of returnees look very positive, the returnees are still faced with problems, concerning security, damage of houses, crops, livestock and schools. There is certainly a huge need for humanitarian aid in the areas of return.”
Another major concern is malnutrition and more funding is needed. Jasmine Pittenger explained that “two malnutrition stabilisation centres have opened in District Headquarter hospitals in Mardan and Swabi Districts and two more are to be established in Swat and Buner Districts, as well as one in D.I. Khan District by the end of September. The UN's overall health response, which includes nutrition as an important component, is only 38 percent funded to date.”
Experts say that while a lot is being done for Pakistan's displaced persons, an urgent increase in funding is necessary to improve health, security and education in the affected areas.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Thomas Bärthlein
Deutsche Welle/Bonn
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Climate Change and Recycling in India
Climate change is already happening worldwide and poses a great threat to the environment. India is now spending over 2.6 percent of its gross domestic product to adjust to climate change according to the country’s annual economic survey, listed in the parliament recently by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee.
Climate is largely affected by human habits and livelihood globally. Several efforts have been made to promote the quick and extensive spread and application of climate friendly technologies to bring climate change to a stop especially in the highly populated subcontinent of India.
Simple solutions like recycling can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and conserve natural resources.
Role of human actions in climate change
Human activities that add to climate change comprise the burning of fossil fuels and waste, agricultural production as well as land-use changes like deforestation. These all cause the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main gas responsible for climate change, and other 'greenhouse' gases. Recycling can surely be promoted more in India but there are some challenges still to be faced.
Lakshmi Narayan, General Secretary of Kagad Kach Patra Kashtakari Panchayat (KKPKP), a union of women rag pickers, whose work involves the separation of domestic garbage into various recyclable items and checking to see if recycling takes place, talks of the problems involved:
"Recycling has never been formally recognized by the state -- all the way from the waste picker to the small scrap dealers to whom they sell scrap to in the recycling and reprocessing industry. In small cities there are organisations giving formal identity cards to waste pickers, otherwise they do not enjoy any privilege."
Recycling benefits all
Global greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced significantly by recycling glass, metals and plastics. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto protocol have also constantly made efforts to promote recycling for better climate conditions. "Recycling reduces emissions 25 times," says Jyoti Mhapsekar, President of a women’s group Stree Mukti Sangathana in Mumbai. "It not only saves energy and trees but it saves money also. We are against burn technology and composting should be done from the bio degradable waste."
It requires 95 percent less energy to recycle aluminium than it does to make it from raw materials. Producing recycled steel saves 60 percent, recycled newspapers 40 percent, recycled plastics 70 percent and recycled glass 40 percent. The savings far outweigh the energy formed as by-products of burning and land filling. While Lakshmi from KKPKP confirms: "Environmentally we all know that recycling if a better option to handle waste than open dumping. It also ends up reducing the cost of solid waste management."
Climate a concern
While the climate has become a serious reason for concern, recycling is one option for betterment not only in India but globally. Change starts by educating the masses.
"The attitude of 'use and throw' should be re-examined," says Jyoti. "People should be encouraged to recycle. Film and documentaries can be shown to uneducated people in villages. Sometimes it seems that the uneducated do not understand but the educated do not want to understand."
With the UN Copenhagen climate change conference COP15 coming up at the end of this year, one can only hope that climate change can be countered with newer solutions being offered worldwide.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Grahame Lucas
Climate is largely affected by human habits and livelihood globally. Several efforts have been made to promote the quick and extensive spread and application of climate friendly technologies to bring climate change to a stop especially in the highly populated subcontinent of India.
Simple solutions like recycling can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and conserve natural resources.
Role of human actions in climate change
Human activities that add to climate change comprise the burning of fossil fuels and waste, agricultural production as well as land-use changes like deforestation. These all cause the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2), the main gas responsible for climate change, and other 'greenhouse' gases. Recycling can surely be promoted more in India but there are some challenges still to be faced.
Lakshmi Narayan, General Secretary of Kagad Kach Patra Kashtakari Panchayat (KKPKP), a union of women rag pickers, whose work involves the separation of domestic garbage into various recyclable items and checking to see if recycling takes place, talks of the problems involved:
"Recycling has never been formally recognized by the state -- all the way from the waste picker to the small scrap dealers to whom they sell scrap to in the recycling and reprocessing industry. In small cities there are organisations giving formal identity cards to waste pickers, otherwise they do not enjoy any privilege."
Recycling benefits all
Global greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced significantly by recycling glass, metals and plastics. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto protocol have also constantly made efforts to promote recycling for better climate conditions. "Recycling reduces emissions 25 times," says Jyoti Mhapsekar, President of a women’s group Stree Mukti Sangathana in Mumbai. "It not only saves energy and trees but it saves money also. We are against burn technology and composting should be done from the bio degradable waste."
It requires 95 percent less energy to recycle aluminium than it does to make it from raw materials. Producing recycled steel saves 60 percent, recycled newspapers 40 percent, recycled plastics 70 percent and recycled glass 40 percent. The savings far outweigh the energy formed as by-products of burning and land filling. While Lakshmi from KKPKP confirms: "Environmentally we all know that recycling if a better option to handle waste than open dumping. It also ends up reducing the cost of solid waste management."
Climate a concern
While the climate has become a serious reason for concern, recycling is one option for betterment not only in India but globally. Change starts by educating the masses.
"The attitude of 'use and throw' should be re-examined," says Jyoti. "People should be encouraged to recycle. Film and documentaries can be shown to uneducated people in villages. Sometimes it seems that the uneducated do not understand but the educated do not want to understand."
With the UN Copenhagen climate change conference COP15 coming up at the end of this year, one can only hope that climate change can be countered with newer solutions being offered worldwide.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Grahame Lucas
Facebook Booming in Indonesia, but Also Controversial
More than a million Indonesians use Facebook
The social networking site Facebook has become increasingly popular across the world over the past two years। In Indonesia, it is the most popular website after Google and Yahoo. But some clerics think it is too popular and want it to be banned in the Muslim country. Others, however, argue that Facebook can be used to promote Islam. For most users it is an ideal forum for discussing topical issues.
In the past year, the number of active Facebook users worldwide has doubled to 150 million। Indonesia, which has a population of 235 million, has 1.3 million users.
Laksmi Pamuntjak, who has written columns and articles on politics, film, food, classical music and literature for Tempo Magazine, is one of them। She logs on to Facebook everyday and says it is a good way of "tracking down old friends and renewing ties, of promoting a cause -- political, social or personal -- and of learning about local and world issues."
Fatwa against Facebook
However, not everybody is in agreement with her. In May, hundreds of clerics from Java and Bali condemned the networking site and called on the country’s religious authorities to issue a fatwa banning Muslims from using Facebook. They said that the site could be used to conduct illicit affairs, flirting or adultery in the name of social networking. The reaction has been subdued and most users have refused to bow down to demands to stop using the site.
Another controversy arose when Prita Mulyasari, a 32-year-old mother of two, was sentenced to jail after being charged with defamation after she complained about treatment she had received at Omni International Hospital and distributed complaint emails online.
Prita was acquitted after spending several weeks in prison but she was later charged with violating a new law on transferring electronic information. She immediately said she would answer a summon to clarify the case.
Resistance to censorship
Laksmi was one of the 100,000 Facebook users who rallied to champion Prita when she was in jail. She is against censorship of Facebook and the Internet: "Freedom of expression is the pillar of individual liberty and of democracy. In Indonesia, in the past few years, there has been an increased tendency towards using Facebook to advance certain political platforms or beliefs."
"This is true in the intensity of discourse around the recent elections; current affairs with a distinct "social injustice" bent such as the case of Prita Mulyasari, who was recently brought to trial for libel by a hospital in Jakarta, the scandal involving Indonesia’s top graft-buster, Antasari Azhar, the debate over the triumph of the anti-pornography law; and a host of cases involving corruption, violence, exploitation, abuse of power, bureaucratic ineptitude, and religious intolerance," she said.
The human rights lawyer Todung Mulya Lubis also supports Facebook: "I don’t think the use of Facebook should be limited to religious teaching only. It would betray the very idea of social networking. However, there should not be a limitation. People mature and become responsible. The abuse of Facebook is an exception, not a rule."
Facebook with all its several merits and demerits is gaining much popularity in Indonesia. Although the clerics may think differently.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Grahame Lucas
The social networking site Facebook has become increasingly popular across the world over the past two years। In Indonesia, it is the most popular website after Google and Yahoo. But some clerics think it is too popular and want it to be banned in the Muslim country. Others, however, argue that Facebook can be used to promote Islam. For most users it is an ideal forum for discussing topical issues.
In the past year, the number of active Facebook users worldwide has doubled to 150 million। Indonesia, which has a population of 235 million, has 1.3 million users.
Laksmi Pamuntjak, who has written columns and articles on politics, film, food, classical music and literature for Tempo Magazine, is one of them। She logs on to Facebook everyday and says it is a good way of "tracking down old friends and renewing ties, of promoting a cause -- political, social or personal -- and of learning about local and world issues."
Fatwa against Facebook
However, not everybody is in agreement with her. In May, hundreds of clerics from Java and Bali condemned the networking site and called on the country’s religious authorities to issue a fatwa banning Muslims from using Facebook. They said that the site could be used to conduct illicit affairs, flirting or adultery in the name of social networking. The reaction has been subdued and most users have refused to bow down to demands to stop using the site.
Another controversy arose when Prita Mulyasari, a 32-year-old mother of two, was sentenced to jail after being charged with defamation after she complained about treatment she had received at Omni International Hospital and distributed complaint emails online.
Prita was acquitted after spending several weeks in prison but she was later charged with violating a new law on transferring electronic information. She immediately said she would answer a summon to clarify the case.
Resistance to censorship
Laksmi was one of the 100,000 Facebook users who rallied to champion Prita when she was in jail. She is against censorship of Facebook and the Internet: "Freedom of expression is the pillar of individual liberty and of democracy. In Indonesia, in the past few years, there has been an increased tendency towards using Facebook to advance certain political platforms or beliefs."
"This is true in the intensity of discourse around the recent elections; current affairs with a distinct "social injustice" bent such as the case of Prita Mulyasari, who was recently brought to trial for libel by a hospital in Jakarta, the scandal involving Indonesia’s top graft-buster, Antasari Azhar, the debate over the triumph of the anti-pornography law; and a host of cases involving corruption, violence, exploitation, abuse of power, bureaucratic ineptitude, and religious intolerance," she said.
The human rights lawyer Todung Mulya Lubis also supports Facebook: "I don’t think the use of Facebook should be limited to religious teaching only. It would betray the very idea of social networking. However, there should not be a limitation. People mature and become responsible. The abuse of Facebook is an exception, not a rule."
Facebook with all its several merits and demerits is gaining much popularity in Indonesia. Although the clerics may think differently.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Grahame Lucas
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Promoting Business Ties: The Indo-German Chamber of Commerce
The Indo-German chamber of commerce has been trying to improve bilateral relations between India and Germany for many years and remains very active when it comes to starting new joint ventures. Recently the organisation celebrated its 50th anniversary.
The Indo-German Chamber of Commerce is headed by a committee of 20 elected Indian and German members, comprising of industrialists and CEOs of German and Indo-German companies. One of the chamber's key activities is creating forums for dialogue for experts from both countries. Recently the chamber brought together high-profile speakers from various fields likes travel and tourism, politics, IT, private and public services, education, health and economics to express their views on India’s potential and opportunities for doing business with Germany.
India partner country at German fairs
The meeting was attended by dignitaries like President Ranjit Pratap and the Lord Mayor of Dusseldorf, Dirk Elbers. Discussion focussed on the achievements of the chamber in the past 50 years. Bernhard Steinruecke, the Director General, stressed the chamber's importance. He said that India had participated at some of the largest German Trade Fairs in 2006, at the Hannover fair, Frankfurt book fair, then in 2007 it was the partner country at ITB in Berlin, the largest tourism fair in the world. Last year it had participated in ILA in Berlin, the oldest aviation show in the world. The fact that India could be positioned as an interesting location for various businesses and for important trade fairs was partly due to the chamber's commitment.
Steinruecke also pointed to the future and added that much remained to be done. The organisation wanted to continue its work to benefit its members. It wanted to make sure that India remained one of the most important export markets for Germany companies in Asia. It also wanted to show Indian companies that Germany - located at the heart of Europe - is an interesting location as well.
With its population rising and international competition increasing, India needs strong economic growth. Thus, the chamber sees its role in facilitating joint cooperation amongst German and India companies. Some companies have already established a reputation for creating mutual understanding between India and Germany in the past, such as Siemens, Bosch, Deutsche Bank, Mercedes and Volkswagen.
With constant efforts to improve Indo-German ties, the chamber has formulated several strategies to promote successful business growth and ease market entry for new and old businesses. Mathias Lingnau, Member of the Board DHL Express Germany, pointed out that the members of the chamber had a lot in common as they had a mission to promote businesses in both India and Germany. DHL Express helps moving the goods of companies that are doing business with India. This is just one example of many for the establishment of successful business ties.
More than 6,000 member companies
Despite the fact that much is being done, the chamber still believes there is more scope for improvement in several areas of business like banking, investments and human skills. With 6,700 member companies in the chamber's membership directory already, the chamber is confident that it can attract more entrepreneurs to join in Indo-German trade. The hope is that the chamber can continue to make a decisive contribution to improving ties between Germany and India for many years in the future.
Author: Nikki Rattan
Editor: Grahame Lucas
Monday, May 18, 2009
Indian Premier League - South Africa as host
The Indian Premier League cricket tournament began its second edition in South Africa in April after organizers changed the competition venue from the South Asian Nation. Featuring eight teams, this five-week, 59-game event began on 18th April in Cape Town. South Africa, which hosted the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup in 2007 and beat the U.K. to the legal right to host the event. What does it reflect about security in India? How has the shift effected fans and revenue collection?
The IPL was shifted after some Indian state governments expressed doubts about providing adequate security as the tournament coincides with national elections.
Branding guru, Suhel Seth comments on this shift and if it reflects lack of security in the nation in any way.
"Our politicians lacked the courage and intellect to keep something like the IPL in India."
"I don’t think it’s a summary or a picture or a representation of our security weaknesses. It is more reflective of the political will to see things through. It is not that India is insecure its just that we don’t want to take any chances. We as a nation are risk averse, specially our political classes."
"We have had elections before alongside IPL last year. It wasn’t a decision based on rationality, it was a decision based on ego. It was based by the home minister and he exercised his power."
It is expected that the shift may also effect revenue collection. Seth says:
"We lost a lot of tourism and domestic revenue. There was a lot of politics and less cricket involved in this decision."
According to Economic Times in India, it is expected that this year’s tournament would yield 8 billion rupees ($160 million) in revenue. The first IPL match held last year yielded $200 million. Organizers raised $1.8 billion though sponsors, media rights and franchise fees. How has the crowd in India reacted to this shift. Abhishek Gupta an IPL fan in India says:
"There is a slight disappointment that we won't be able to watch it live."
Former Senior Editor Vijay Simha from Tehelka magazine in India comments:
"It was very sensible. Move was excellent from security point of view. There is a cricket benefit. The IPL is meant for young Indian talent to come up. None of them would have got a chance to play in the South African nation in the normal run of things. It is a special experience for the young cricketers."
Security indeed has been a concern after an attack in Lahore on the Sri Lankan cricket team which resulted in six police officers and two civilians dead and five Sri Lankan cricketers and a coach badly injured. This happened exactly 120 days after terrorist attacks to Mumbai which killed 164 people leading to cancellation of Pakistan tour by Indian Cricketers. Indian government has proved itself by taking precautionary measures by shifting the venue to the beautiful city of Cape Town with the grand finale on May 24 in Johannesburg.
By Nikki RattanEditor: Grahame Lucas
for Deutsche Welle Radio
Global Recession: For better or for worse
The global recession has resulted in recent increase in the number of people approaching Astroyogi.com asking for astrological assistance in matters related to their jobs or careers. Clearly a lot of people have been hit by the recession and many feel that websites like this one can offer them advice in times of crisis. While recruitment specialists have lots of ideas about how people who have lost their jobs can get back into employment, some prefer to believe that astrology really can help them.
Since the start of the global recession the number of questions put by the users of Astroyogi dot com about the way their future appears in the stars has shot up by 30 percent. Most of these callers work in the computer industry or are graduates of business schools, both of which have seen a lot of people being laid off in recent months. Not surprisingly 20 percent of the queries resolve around job prospects.
Astroyogi dot com was launched in 1999 and houses over 10,000 pages of unique content dealing with all areas of astrology and spirituality, including numerology, tarot, vaastu, fengshui and Chinese astrology. The site has a registered user base of a million people and the firm's popularity has increased sharply with the onset of the world recession.
Meena Kapoor, CEO Astroyogi dot com, comments on which segment of society are worst effected by recession.
"Its the young people who are emerging into the work force as they got used to high salary packages at entry level and suddenly due to recession they are finding it difficult to combat the situation. Job availability has gone down radically. There is a huge pool of qualified people who are now available who were not available before. It is important that employees are not just giving 100% output but 200% output."
Meena Kapoor explains what can be done to combat the situation:
"Astrology cannot combat recession but it can certainly provide guidance to people who want to make career moves. It can help give direction about what their next move should be or what are the wise investments they should make. It is a good guidance tool."
The site's callers are not only from India but also from countries like the US, U.K and Malaysia to name but a few.
At times of disappointment large numbers of people clearly hope that the movement of the planets will in some way indicate where financial markets are going to go in the future. Ginni Arora is a tarot card reader and panellist at Astroyogi. In her opinion astrology can help in the present recession scenario and help people to get on in their careers despite the poor prospects at the present time.
"It gives guidance and strength to face the problems. It can tell you the correct timings of events and guide in taking other professions as well."
Inner strength is of course important to face a crisis, but at the end of the day every individual has to decide whether to believe in the power of astrology or not.
Since the start of the global recession the number of questions put by the users of Astroyogi dot com about the way their future appears in the stars has shot up by 30 percent. Most of these callers work in the computer industry or are graduates of business schools, both of which have seen a lot of people being laid off in recent months. Not surprisingly 20 percent of the queries resolve around job prospects.
Astroyogi dot com was launched in 1999 and houses over 10,000 pages of unique content dealing with all areas of astrology and spirituality, including numerology, tarot, vaastu, fengshui and Chinese astrology. The site has a registered user base of a million people and the firm's popularity has increased sharply with the onset of the world recession.
Meena Kapoor, CEO Astroyogi dot com, comments on which segment of society are worst effected by recession.
"Its the young people who are emerging into the work force as they got used to high salary packages at entry level and suddenly due to recession they are finding it difficult to combat the situation. Job availability has gone down radically. There is a huge pool of qualified people who are now available who were not available before. It is important that employees are not just giving 100% output but 200% output."
Meena Kapoor explains what can be done to combat the situation:
"Astrology cannot combat recession but it can certainly provide guidance to people who want to make career moves. It can help give direction about what their next move should be or what are the wise investments they should make. It is a good guidance tool."
The site's callers are not only from India but also from countries like the US, U.K and Malaysia to name but a few.
At times of disappointment large numbers of people clearly hope that the movement of the planets will in some way indicate where financial markets are going to go in the future. Ginni Arora is a tarot card reader and panellist at Astroyogi. In her opinion astrology can help in the present recession scenario and help people to get on in their careers despite the poor prospects at the present time.
"It gives guidance and strength to face the problems. It can tell you the correct timings of events and guide in taking other professions as well."
Inner strength is of course important to face a crisis, but at the end of the day every individual has to decide whether to believe in the power of astrology or not.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Indian Fashion Goes Global
India has hit the international fashion headlines over the past few years because of unique creations and developments. Trendy fashion shows in India have attracted national and international attention. Moreover, some have chosen to focus on socio-political themes such as the global threat of terrorism and the current economic crisis.
There have already been several successful fashion shows this year in India -- the Wills India Fashion Week, Delhi Fashion Week and Lakme India Fashion Week to name but a few.
Jattinn Kochhar is a designer who has displayed his collections in numerous locations around the world, including Bangkok, Colombo and Johannesburg:
“It is handwork which makes Indian designs unique. Almost all the top designers of the world get their beading done in India. This has been happening for the past hundred years. American, European and British designers all look to India for inspiration. The roots all are here,” he says.
80 percent of Indian designs are sold to domestic fashion houses. These are growing by 10 percent annually. This year’s shows have seen vibrant colours such as blue and violet as well as softer pinks and whites. Skirts and printed tunics, floral patterns and quilted jackets in silk or leather have been showcased.
India is rich in culture and colour
Jattinn explains the chief reasons for the increase in demand for Indian designs: “India is rich in heritage, culture, fabric, motif, colour, embellishments and in terms of creativity, India and Indian designers have huge potential.”
Samant Chauhan started his designing career in 2006, and now retails his work in Russia, Switzerland, Italy, France, Israel and Singapore.
He displayed his new “Silk Route” collection at the Wills India Fashion Week in Delhi: “A lot of designers are taking inspiration from Indian crafts, textiles and colours. It is reflected in all major collections like John Galliano’s collection. Indian designers are now exposed to Western markets. European buyers are ready to buy Indian designer products. Indian brands are being sold in their stores. You can see the collections of top Indian designers in top international stores like Harrods etc.”
Fashion bazaar project
As Indian pret-a-porter and couture designs continue to set trends and gain popularity across the world, a project that would enable designers to have more freedom is being formed.
A so-called fashion bazaar will showcase collections throughout the year, allowing buyers to view designs without having to wait for particular fashion weeks or shows. However, the fashion community is still waiting for government support.
The Indian Associated Chambers of Commerce estimate investment in the Indian fashion industry to reach 7.5 billion rupees by 2012 as compared to the current 3 billion rupees.
As more fashion schools open up, fresh graduates are bringing in new ideas. Indian designers will probably seek to open more outlets in the West so that the latest Indian ethnic designs are available to a wider market.
By Nikki Rattan/DW
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Medha Nicky Rishi: Sensuality with Poise and Glamour
Blessed with 4 national and international titles over the past 2 years Medha Nicky Rishi was Miss South Asia USA 2007 and Miss India America West coast 2006. From there, she went on to secure the International title of Miss India Galaxy 2007. Along the way, she was also the second runner up of Miss India California 2008 competition and won the crowds as she walked away with best talent, best catwalk and most photogenic at the pageant. These experiences have not only given her fame but also a platform to launch her dream of modeling and acting in the entertainment industry. She speaks five languages and has done cameos in films too. More at: www.nickyrishi.com.
Nicky with SATimes:
* What is your fitness regime or mantra?
Plenty of sleep, small meals during the day and exercise on a regular basis.
* What is your inspiration?
My inspiration is simply my family
* What are your future dreams?
My future dream is to be the next Miss India, then set that as a platform to strengthen my acting skills and shine in the entertainment industry.
* Which charities are you working with?
I have been working with Jagriti Foundation over the past 5 years, and that is one charity I will be focusing on again this year. It supports and enhances the empowerment of women all over the world: an issue that needs attention especially in third world countries.
* What brands have you modelled for?
The FaceShop, Levis, Satya Paul, Manish Malhotra, Anand Jon, Ritu Kumar, Platinum Jewelers, Kumar Jewelers etc
* Do you plan to enter Bollywood?
Yes, the near future goal is to enter Bollywood
* What is the best thing about your profession?
Best thing about my profession is that since I am pursuing my passion, there is never a dull moment in my life.
* What perfume do you wear?
Burberry Tender Touch
* Your favourite outfit?
A short black dress.
* Your dream date?
Dinner and a movie with a Renaissance man.
* What turns you off?
Superficiality turns me off.
* Three wishes you'd like to be granted if possible?
Good health throughout my life, the power and means to be a humanitarian, and another 3 wishes
* Your favourite vacation destination?
Paris
* Last but not the least, what stands you apart from others?
My deep Indian roots and strong sanskriti, along with my modern, western upbringing in the US makes me stand apart from others.
By Nikki Rattan/SATimes
Nicky with SATimes:
* What is your fitness regime or mantra?
Plenty of sleep, small meals during the day and exercise on a regular basis.
* What is your inspiration?
My inspiration is simply my family
* What are your future dreams?
My future dream is to be the next Miss India, then set that as a platform to strengthen my acting skills and shine in the entertainment industry.
* Which charities are you working with?
I have been working with Jagriti Foundation over the past 5 years, and that is one charity I will be focusing on again this year. It supports and enhances the empowerment of women all over the world: an issue that needs attention especially in third world countries.
* What brands have you modelled for?
The FaceShop, Levis, Satya Paul, Manish Malhotra, Anand Jon, Ritu Kumar, Platinum Jewelers, Kumar Jewelers etc
* Do you plan to enter Bollywood?
Yes, the near future goal is to enter Bollywood
* What is the best thing about your profession?
Best thing about my profession is that since I am pursuing my passion, there is never a dull moment in my life.
* What perfume do you wear?
Burberry Tender Touch
* Your favourite outfit?
A short black dress.
* Your dream date?
Dinner and a movie with a Renaissance man.
* What turns you off?
Superficiality turns me off.
* Three wishes you'd like to be granted if possible?
Good health throughout my life, the power and means to be a humanitarian, and another 3 wishes
* Your favourite vacation destination?
Paris
* Last but not the least, what stands you apart from others?
My deep Indian roots and strong sanskriti, along with my modern, western upbringing in the US makes me stand apart from others.
By Nikki Rattan/SATimes
Hospitality at large - Tarun Patel, AAHOA Chairman 2009
Asian Ameican Hotel Owners Association is the leading force for Hotel Owners in the Hospitality Industry. It provides a forum for advocacy, professional development and business development. All kinds of help is provided, from resolving disputes with franchise companies to promoting the hotel owners positions in legistative activities and providing forums to increase development in the hotel industry. Exhibitor Registrations are on for AAHOA Annual Convention & Tradeshow 2009. For membership information and more log onto: http://www.aahoa.com/
Vice Chairman of AAHOA 2008, Mr Tarun Patel talks to SATimes:
1) A lot has been done to enhance professional development in Hospitality by AAHOA. What are the chief programs and benefits?
CHO (Certified Hotel Owners) is a program that is now certified by both Carlson Hotel and Choice hotels in lieu of manager training. It also offers a solid perspective of all aspects required as a Hotel Owner
We have also partnered with NYU (New York University) to build a leadership curriculum that is offered to our members free of charge. The subjects range from Revenue Management to Leadership.
2) What is your role/key responsibilities?
I am the Vice Chairman of the Association; will be Chairman in April 2009. My role is to promote and protect the interests of our membership in the general industry as well and communicate the progress we are making on our long term plans to our membership.
3) Does the Asian Hotel Industry hold a major share in the America's Hotel Industry?
AAHOA just surpassed membership of 9,000. The 9,000 members of AAHOA own close to 22,000 to 25,000 hotels of the approximate 50,000 hotels in the US. So yes, the Asian Hoteliers own close to half of the lodging in this county.
4) What are some future policy changes that can/should be made in AAHOA?
Over the past few years, we have been working on a new AAHOA governance policy which guides us how to run the organization. This work that has been done is amazing and we just need to make sure that it is implemented. We also need to make the organization more relevant for the younger hoteliers so that their involvement increases. This is the only way to ensure that the organization continues to thrive in the coming years.
5) Tell us more on the ALB Magazine.
ALB is our official magazine which has information from the leadership along with information from some industry experts on the trends and opportunities in the lodging industry.
6) What is a typical day in the life of Mr. Tarun Patel?
Since my involvement in AAHOA, no day has been typical! (says laughingly) I travel close to 45 weeks a year attending AAHOA Regional Events, meetings with franchise companies, going to Washington DC to talk to legislators regarding issues, Industry events, AAHOA Board Meetings, etc. etc. We have a high touch engagement model with our membership and that requires us to be on the road a lot.
7) How does is feel do make the American Dream possible for many?
I have been blessed to have a family that supports me and provided me a foundation to build upon. I am very passionate about leaving a legacy of political involvement so that my children can enjoy the foundation that I will leave for them.
8) Any message for the readers, expecially for Diwali?
I want to wish everybody "Saal Mubarak and Happy Diwali" I trust that the new year will bring you happiness and good luck.
By Nikki Rattan/SATimes
Vice Chairman of AAHOA 2008, Mr Tarun Patel talks to SATimes:
1) A lot has been done to enhance professional development in Hospitality by AAHOA. What are the chief programs and benefits?
We have also partnered with NYU (New York University) to build a leadership curriculum that is offered to our members free of charge. The subjects range from Revenue Management to Leadership.
2) What is your role/key responsibilities?
3) Does the Asian Hotel Industry hold a major share in the America's Hotel Industry?
4) What are some future policy changes that can/should be made in AAHOA?
5) Tell us more on the ALB Magazine.
6) What is a typical day in the life of Mr. Tarun Patel?
7) How does is feel do make the American Dream possible for many?
8) Any message for the readers, expecially for Diwali?
I want to wish everybody "Saal Mubarak and Happy Diwali" I trust that the new year will bring you happiness and good luck.
By Nikki Rattan/SATimes
Women in Leadership: Nikki Haley
An ideal example of Women Empowerment, Nikki Haley is the first American Republican state legislator in the United Stated. Born and brought up in Bamberg, South Carolina, Nikki's parents Dr. Ajit and Raj Randhawa are Punjabi Sikh immigrants from Amritsar, India. Doing the nations much proud today she is a South Carolina House of Representatives legislator for Lexington Country.
Thinking outside the spider's web, Nikki has made several reforms in the system to eradicate issues of unemployment, illiteracy and enforce economic development. Winner of prestigious awards like "Friend of the Taxpayer" - South Carolina Association of Taxpayers in 2005, "Palmetto Leadership Award" - South Carolina Policy Council" and "Strom Thurmond Excellence in Public Service and Government Award" - South Carolina federation of Republican Women in 2006, she is a wife, a daughter and a mother of two. Find out more at: http://www.nikkihaley.com/
Nikki shares the experiences with SATimes:
First GOP Indian American in the nation to win a State House seat in 2004. What are some challenges you have faced?
I had to introduce myself to the district and communicate what I thought I could do differently in representing the district. I worked to develop trust and that took a lot of time, energy, and one-on-one conversations. In the end, the challenges proved to be worthwhile and the people were and have been incredibly supportive ever since.
Tell us about your role in your family business Exotica International.
I grew up in our 32 year old family business which is where I developed my work ethic and appreciation of small businesses. I am an accountant and I am responsible for the corporate accounting for the business.
What are some chief responsibilities as member of South Carolina Legislative?
As a legislator my goal is to educate my constituency on the issues that we face, get their opinions on these issues and report back my votes. I also have an active constituency that I help in all aspects of state government when they have problems to find them answers and get them to the right people so that their lives are easier and government is not in the way.
The key to earning the trust of District 87 voters?
I think the key to earning the trust of the voters is to keep in constant communication with them and to educate them on the issues. It is important that you communicate your actions and reasons for votes. I believe that they need to be informed so that they feel and know that they are actively involved in my representation and the legislative process.
Taxes pose a great problem in most parts of the world. What have been your prime contributions in tax reduction in Columbia?
I have worked on significant property tax reform in the past couple of years. In the next year I will be introducing legislation to eliminate personal property taxes on small businesses. My main concern is on accountability and transparency in government. I am sponsoring the 2009 Spending Accountability Act which will require all legislative votes to be on the record for public access and view.
What are your future goals for development of society in the coming years?
I don't know where life will take me but my one hope in life is that people know that I was here, represented them in a way that makes them proud, and that their lives are better for it.
What is life like away from work? A typical day in the life of Nikki Haley?
I'm a wife who believes that she is married to her very best friend in life and ultimate soul mate. I feel blessed everyday for the two children that call me Mom. I am a daughter who hopes that I can be half the person my parents are and taught me to be. I live each day hoping that I can make today better than yesterday. No two days are ever alike but I take it one day at a time and always strive to do the best that I can.
By Nikki Rattan/SATimes
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