Raman Singh's brother 3 others 02 injured as car collides with mini-truck

We

British MPs appreciate 05 Madhya Pradesh's development achievements

06

Kejriwal has his eyes set on Lok Sabha not the aam aadmi

Published simultaneously from Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh Online edition available at wethestate.com and wethestate.blogspot.in
POSTAL REGD. MP/BHOPAL/4-323/2013-15

Vol-02. Issue-22. Bhopal. Monday Page-12. Price-5/-

he State
ty in tourism. The tourist flow has increased to 6.33 crore in 2013 from 5.34 crore in 2012 representing 18.14 percent increase. It was 87 lakh in 2004. New marketing officers are being opened at Chandigarh, Noida, Jaipur, Bengaluru, and Patna. Air connectivity has been ensured for Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Satna and Khajuraho. The tourism budget has increased manifold from Rs. 15 crore in 2004 to 154 crore at present. In last two years, 28 tourism related projects worth Rs. 314.62 crore have been sanctioned.

FEBRUARY 24 TO MARCH 02, 2014

Zarine Khan blames Katrina Kaif for failure in Bollywood

09

MoUs signed at investors' summits 10 being implemented speedily

Virat Kohli looks to end Indias 11 losing streak in Asia Cup opener

Excise staff should prevent illegal sale and production of liquor strictly
Excise staff has been directed to prevent illegal sale, distribution and production of liquor strictly during Lok Sabha elections. Apart from preventing illegal production of liquor, its distribution to entice voters should also be prevented. These directives were given by Principal Secretary Commercial Taxes Shri Ashwini Kumar Rai during one-day training to district excise officers at RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration here today. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Shri V.L. Kanta Rao and Training Observer Shri D.P. Tiwari were also present on the occasion. Shri Ashwini Kumar Rai said that Excise Department should strengthen its intelligence network to prevent illegal sale, distribution and production of liquor. Every person has the right to elect candidate of his choice in election. The excise staff will have to prove their willpower in preventing distribution of liquor to entice voters. He said that the teams should reach spots with full preparations to prevent illegal sale, distribution and production of liquor. Departmental staff should also ensure action against distribution and transportation of mahua used in distilling hooch. Country and foreign liquors secret sale at haat bazaar should also be monitored and police should act against such incidences on the spot.

MP takes novel initiatives

to promote tourism
RAJIV TIWARI

M
BHOPAL

Special Tourism Zones

The State has identified 16 tourism zones - Indira Sagar, Ban Sagar, Gandhi Sagar, Khajuraho, Datia, Orchha, Sanchi, Mandu, Tawa Nagar, Tamia-Patalkot, Salkanpur, Chitrakoot, Panna, Choral, Maheshwar and Amarkantak. Each tourism zone is known for a distinct tourism activity. Selani, Island - Omkareshwar in Khandwa district will soon have water and adventure tourism. As many as seven forts and fortresses of private and state ownership have been identified for promoting heritage tourism. These include Rampur Fort (Guna), Arjun Palace (Narsingarh-Rajgarh), Rani Palace (Tikamgarh), Rani Palace (Ratlam), Scindia Boarding House (Neemuch), Rajgarh Palace (Datia) and Madhavgarh Palace (Satna).

How WE look it !

...Cartoon by K G OJHA
kgojha@ rediffmail.com

adhya Pradesh, which was recently conferred with the Best State Tourism Award for compressive development of tourism, has taken novel initiatives for promotion and management of tourism in the state exploring new areas like ecotourism, heritage tourism, and spiritual tourism. The Mukhya Mantri Tirth Darshan Yojana - CM's Pilgrimage Scheme in collaboration with IRCTC has not only encouraged domestic tourism but also promoted religious tourism. So far 2.50 lakh elderly persons have visited the pilgrimage sites of their choice free of cost. The M.P. Eco Tourism Board has developed 38 ecotourism sites. Farm tourism is also being promoted. In recent past, a number of groups of farmers, farm scientists, managers and IT professionals visited the state to study the system of E-procurement of wheat. A new scheme Khet Tirth Yojana has been launched to encourage visits of farming community to the best managed fields and farms within the state. Madhya Pradesh offers a diversi-

Maihar, Chitrakoot, Orchha, Ujjain, Omkareshwar Maheshwar, Panna, Datia, Multai, Salkanpur and Mandla. The sale of eggs, meat and fish remains prohibited at these places. Besides, cruelty against animals and birds has been prevented. Sale of liquor is prohibited in and around these cities. Ujjaini village the origin of Kshipra near Indore will be developed as pilgrimage site. Ujjaini is confluence of Narmada and Kshipra rivers. Madhya Pradesh also bagged Awards for Best Tourism Film and Best Civic Management of Tourist Destination - Pachmarhi.

Holy City Concept

The State Government has encouraged spiritual tourism in a big way. The cities having nes visited by thousands of pilgrims have been declared as Holy Cities and compressive planning has been made for their management. The State has 12 holy cities - Amarkantak,

Diversity in Tourism

Madhya Pradesh has secured a strong visibility on the world tourism map. Known as The Heart of Incredible India, Madhya Pradesh has shown the way to strengthen cultural integration by promoting spiritual tourism. The State Government

has made provision of providing grants to the prospective pilgrims for visiting Angkor Vat in Cambodia, Sita Mata temple site in Sri Lanka, Mansarovar Pilgrimage China. Besides, visit Nankana Sahib and Hinglajdevi ne in Pakistan. Madhya Pradesh already enjoys a global identity of having three world monuments - Bhim Betka, Sanchi and Khajuraho. The wilderness of Madhya Pradesh also occupies unique place in the world and remains the most sought-after destination for the nature lovers. The Amarkantak-Achanakmar reserve figures in the list of world's 20 new mega biodiversity sites listed by the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). Recently Panna Tiger Reserve has created a history in wildlife conservation by rearing tiger families. Resultantly , the number of tigers has gone up to 23 from zero.

02

Chhattisgarh Explore

February 24 to March 2, 2014 (MP&CG)

NHRC notice to Chhattisgarh over assault on woman

New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Tuesday issued notice to Chhattisgarh over the assault of a 65-year-old woman suspected of practising witchcraft. As per media reports, the woman was brutally beaten and her head tonsured after she was suspected of practising witchcraft by people of Korba district. "We have taken suo motu cognizance of the report. If the contents are true, it amounts to serious violation of human rights of women," the NHRC said. "Notice has been issued to the district magistrate and superintendent of police, Korba, calling for reports within two weeks." The police superintendent has also been directed to inform whether any case has been registered in the matter.

Raman Singh's brother

3 others injured as car collides with mini-truck

our persons, including the brother of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh, were injured when their car collided head on with a mini truck on Raipur-Balodabazar Road on Sunday , police said. Chief Minister's elder brother Ashok Singh and his wife Aarti Singh, their assistant Naresh Som and driver S Shivan were injured in the mishap that took place near a petrol pump under

Kharora police station limits on way to Shivrinarayan from Raipur, Superintendent of Police OP Pal said. Ashok received injures on the chest and hand, while his wife sustained injuries on her forehead, he said. Naresh and driver suffered minor injuries, Pal said adding that Ashok Singh's son and daughter-in-law, who were also in the car, escaped unharmed.

Soon after the incident, the injured were rushed to a local hospital from where they were shifted to Ram Krishna Care Hospital in Raipur. They are said to be stable, the SP said. After the mishap, truck driver Rizwan escaped from the spot, but was later nabbed, he said. Chief Minister Raman Singh visited Ramkrishna Hospital to enquire about the health of his brother and others.

Maoist killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh

Raipur: A Maoist was gunned down in a fierce encounter with security forces in Naxal-affected Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh on Sunday, police said. The face off took place in the forests under Dhaudai police station limits of restive Abhujmad region, Narayanpur Additional Superintendent of Police OP Sharma told The joint squad of CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), a specialised unit of CRPF, Special Task Force and district police was on an anti-Naxal operation in Abhujmad region, about 400 kms from the state capital Raipur, this morning. On spotting the security personnel in the forests of Dhaudai, armed Maoists launched an attack on them. As the security personnel retaliated, a fierce exchange of fire took place, following which ultras fled to the core forest, the ASP said. Later, the body of a Maoist in uniform was found inside the forest during a search following the encounter, he said, adding that some weapons were also recovered from there. Further details were awaited as the security forces were yet to come out of the forest, he added.

Project oustees demand

special compensation package C

Cong targets CG govt over paddy storage facilities

RAIPUR
About 200 farmers belonging to Sallameta village in Bastar region, including women and children, recently entered the water of the Kosarteda dam while demanding a special compensation package for the project oustees. Huge police force was deployed at the dam site. However, persuaded by the Collector and District Rehabilitation Committee Secretary Ankit Anand, the farmers announced they would suspend their Jal Satyagraha programme and agreed to sit on a dharna only up to February 24. The farmers of Sallameta village

Huge cache of explosives, Naxal material seized in Chhattisgarh

Rajnandgaon: A huge cache of explosives and Naxal-related material was recovered during a search operation in Maoist-hit Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh, police said on SaturdayThe Naxal dump was unearthed and seized from the forest of Jakke and Kumurkatta villages under Khadgaon police station limits last evening, Rajnandgaon Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Shukla said. A joint force of Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and district police went on a combing operation in the forests of Khadgaon following a tip-off and recovered gelatin packets weighing around 20 kgs, three steel containers, Naxal uniforms, their literature and other related material, besides items of daily use, he said. Prime facie it appears that the recovered explosives were allegedly looted from Mahamaya iron ore mines located in Dallirajhra of Balod area, he said.

whose land is coming under submergence on account of the development of Kosarteda Medium Irrigation Project in Bastar region postponed their 'Jal Satyagraha'. During the Jal Satyagraha, 50year-old tribal farmer Saamnath fell into the water and fainted. The police had arrested 203 agitating farmers and had brought them to Bhanpuri police station. Out of them, 194 farmers were released immediately . However, the police released farmer leaders Gopiram Baghel, Ratiram, Maniram, Nandoram, Maniram Baghel and others only later in the evening. Farmer leaders said the Government and administration must take a decision on their other de-

mands also, they stated. In support of their demand for a special package, 944 farmers from the submergence affected Saalmeta, Khadkameeta, Chhuravand, Kamela and Kanera villages were on dharna and Jal Satyagraha. Earlier, in February and November 2012 also, the farmers had staged agitation with the special package demand. The Collector is likely to discuss the farmers' demands and Water Resources Department officers will also be called to discuss issues. The farmers while discussing their demand made it clear that the issue would not be solved without the release of the Rs 5.20 crore special package for them.

ongress on Monday accused the state government of failing to ensure proper storage facilities at paddy procurement centres, saying that a substantial portion of the crop got damaged in rains as it was kept in the open. The Opposition also termed it as a "conspiracy" to cover up alleged wrongdoings in the paddy procurement. "Around 22 lakh tonnes of paddy kept in the open at different procurement centres, got damaged in the recent rains. The state government willingly left the paddy to rot in the rain to cover up its irregularities in procurement," PCC chief Bhupesh Baghel said in a statement on Monday It is unfortunate that the state government is yet to disburse the bonus of Rs 3,880 crore to farmers for their paddy while the cost of rotten paddy stocks has crossed Rs 4,000 crore, he said. Despite making tall claims of having ensured proper arrangement to store paddy at procurement centres, the level of damage could not be prevented, he said."Polythene and other kind of covers worth crore of rupees were bought to save paddy from natural calamities. But it seems that the arrangements were not sufficient," he said. Questioning state government preparedness, he said that the state government had failed to draft an action plan to deal with such a situation.

Chhattisgarh govt to set up Law Commission

RAIPUR
A new Law Commission will be set up in Chhattisgarh to suggest changes in laws as per the geographical and social requirements of the State, Chief Minister Raman Singh announced in the Assembly today . Some laws in Chhattisgarh are in force since it was a part of Madhya Pradesh. They became obsolete after Chhattisgarh became a new State in 2000. Some legislations need to be altered according to the geographical and social requirements of the State, he said during reply on the discussion on Appropriation Bill in the House. With these objectives in mind, the Government will setup a new Law Commission, Singh said. On the initiative of the State Government, a rail corridor project based on Public Private Partnership (PPP) model has been sanctioned. Under this, a monorail project has been envisaged in the state capital, the Chief Minister said. Under another PPP project between School Education Department and Super 30, a private coaching institute, a special programme will be launched to train students qualify for taking admission in reputed technical institutes, he said. Lauding the development works of his Government in the past ten years, Singh said, "we will fulfil the expectation of the 2.50 crore people of the State who have shown faith in us for a third time. Every single penny of the budget will be used appropriately ."

(MP&CG) February 24 to March 2, 2014

Bhopal

03

PR Minister Shri Rajendra Shuklas tour programme

Public Relations, Energy, New & Renewable Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla will accompany Chief Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan on board an aircraft to Neemuch on February 26, 2014. Along with Shri Chouhan, Shri Shukla will take part in the inaugural programme of solar energy plant. The Public Relations Minister will return with the Chief Minister by plan to Bhopal in the afternoon.

Shaurya Dals to be constituted in every village and city ward

BHOPAL
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan has said that for women's empowerment, Shaurya Dals will be constituted in every village and city ward now. New ration cards will have name of woman as head of family . Chief Minister Chauhan was addressing state-level convention of Shaurya Dals at his residence here today . Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Maya Singh and Higher Education Minister Umashankar Gupta were also present on the occasion. At the convention, an MoU was signed between Madhya Pradesh government and U.N. Woman. The Chief Minister said that for their empowerment, women need to be empowered economically, politically and socially. Effective initiative in this direction has been taken in Madhya Pradesh. He urged to strengthen women's self-help groups. United efforts need to be made for saving girls and save them against discrimination. Mindset of people indulging in discrimination must be changed. Respect to women is our cultural tradition. State government has implemented schemes like Beti Bachao Abhiyan, Ladli Laxmi Yojana and Mukhyamantri Kanyadan Yojana. Women are being given 50 percent reservation in local bodies and appointment of teachers. Shaurya Dals should cre-

Guest faculties of colleges to get maximum 20 seniority marks in recruitment

Guest faculties teaching in colleges will be given maximum 20 marks on the basis of work-experience at the rate of maximum 4 extra seniority marks for every year for direct recruitment on sanctioned posts of assistant professors, sports officers or librarian. This amendment has been made recently. Before this, there was a provision to grant 20 % extra seniority marks. Relaxation will also be given in maximum age limit from actual working period.

Jungle introduction camp for orphans held in Samardha

Madhya Pradesh Eco-tourism Development Board organised a 2-day eco-tourism jungle introduction camp at Samardha eco-tourism centre with the cooperation of voluntary organisation Make A Difference for orphan children of various ashrams. As many as 128 children between 10 and 18 years of age and 30 volunteer coordinators participated in the camp. The board made all arrangements for children including food, stay etc. through Samardha eco-tourism committee run by local people. On the first day, children enjoyed trekking. Apart from giving knowledge about forests, wildlife and natural resources, children were taken for trekking under the supervision of committees guides. They trekked upto Jamunjhora stop dam. During trekking, children were given detailed information about wildlife, their habitats, birds, their identification, food etc. Children were very keen to watch birds and identify them through telescope.

ate awareness about women's rights, de-addict villages and awaken women towards their welfare schemes. He urged that all people should cooperate to ensure prosperity and development of Madhya Pradesh. Women and Child Development Minister Maya Singh said that Shaurya Dals have been constituted in 6 districts of the state. The teams have done commendable work to stop discrimination against women. Now, these teams are being constituted in entire state. Violence

against women can be overcome by changing people's mindset towards them. Dr. Rebecca Richman of U.N. Woman said that significant work has been done in Madhya Pradesh for women's empowerment. Election of 15 lakh women in Panchayats is a major achievements including implementation of successful programmes like Ladli Laxmi Yojana, Gaon Ki Beti Yojana and Beti Bachao Abhiyan. Madhya Pradesh is the first state to pass gender budget. Now, U.N. Woman will coop-

erate with Madhya Pradesh government in this regard. International Federation for Agriculture Development's Country Coordinator Su Meera Mishra said that Shaura Dals are doing better work for changing people's mindset. U.N.D.P's Deputy Country Director Su Alexandra Soloviva said that Grameen Haat programme of Madhya Pradesh has won UN's Public Service Award last year. Vincent Derlong of International Federation for Agriculture Development also spoke on the occasion.

MP first state to implement Akshay Urja Shop Scheme at block level

Not only common people are getting benefit of Akshay Urja Shop at development block level, it is also proving to be an effective step towards employment. It is also helping villagers, school and college students acquire knowledge about this technique and educate unemployed people to establish self-employment. Solar streetlights, home light, solar water heater, solar cooker, lantern, torch, mobile charger, biomass cook stove, LED bulbs/tubelights etc. are easily available at these Alternative Energy Shops. District-level private Akshay Urja Shops were started by Union New & Renewable Energy Ministry 3 years ago. There was provision to provide Rs. 10 thousand per month incentive money and recurring grant for one year in the first and second years on monthly turnover of Rs. 50 thousand and Rs. one lakh, respectively. Madhya Pradesh government through Madhya Pradesh Energy Development Corporation has expanded these shops to development block level giving Rs. 10 thousand per month incentive money and recurring grant on monthly sales of Rs. 30 thousand. Turnover limit of Government of India has been reduced but the same incentive and recurring grant are being given. Rural people are getting alternative energy and energy-efficient appliances easily due to opening of these shops at development block level. Installation and after-sale maintenance of plants/products has also become easier. In all, 267 out of 328 shops are sanctioned in Madhya Pradesh. A proposal has been sent to Government of India to cancel and re-select 7 shops. Applications have been invited for remaining 54 shops and transparent selection process is on. Due to opening of Alternative Energy Shops, private Akshay Urja Shops have transacted turnover of more than Rs. 20 crore so far. The biggest benefit of these shops is that teams comprising one to 2 thousand technicians are available for repair and maintenance of installed plants who ensure criticality of plants through tie-up with concerning manufacturing companies.

Excise Officers election -related training on Feb 26

For Lok Sabha elections, training will be imparted to Excise Officers at RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration here on February 26. The training session will be inaugurated by Chief Electoral Officer Shri Jaideep Govind and Principal Secretary Commercial Taxes Shri Ashwini Rai at 10.30 am. In other sessions, Joint Chief Electoral Officer Shri S.S. Bansal and Additional Excise Commissioner Shri D.R. Jauhari will train officers in election expenses and monitoring.

BHOPAL
With a view to reducing gap between demand and supply of power, special attention is being paid to use of alternative energy at village and common people levels. Madhya Pradesh is the first state where Shop is being implemented at development block level. This scheme is not being implemented at block level in any other state. It is noteworthy that Union New & Renewable Energy Ministry had started Akshay Urja Shops at dis-

trict level 3 years ago. Madhya Pradesh Energy Development Corporation has implemented the scheme in all 313 development blocks in the state for publicity, marketing and maintenance of alternative energy appliances and energyefficient products. Apart from development block level Alternative Energy Shop, an additional shop has been sanctioned for divisional headquarters Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Ujjain, Sagar and Rewa in view of their size and population.

04

Raipur Trail

February 24 to March 2, 2014 (MP&CG)

Fake currency with face value of Rs 26 lakh seized in last 3 years: Minister
ake currency with face value of over Rs 29 lakh has been seized in Chhattisgarh in the past three years, state Home Minister Ramsewak Paikra on Wednesday told the Assembly. In a written reply to a question from Congress MLA Motilal Dewangan, Paikra said: "Counterfeit currency with face value of Rs 29,60,180 was seized between 2011 and 2013 in the state and a total of 66 cases were registered in this connection." "Besides, as many as 129 people were booked in these cases," he said. The recovery of fake currency witnessed consistent rise during this period as the counterfeit currency with face value of Rs 4,46,930 was recovered in the year 2011, which further increased to 5,51,750 in 2012, and 19,61,500 in 2013, according to the reply. The maximum number of cases of fake currency were witnessed in Bilaspur (8), Raigarh (8), Mahasamund (7), Durg (7), JanjgirChampa (6) and Korba (6) districts during this period, it said.

Congress stages walkout of Chhattisgarh Assembly A over safety of girl inmates

of the rape of minor tribal girls in a government-run residential school at Jhaliyamari village in Kanker district in January 2013, during the Question Hour. He sought to know whether the committee constituted by the state government to probe the incident has submitted its report. "...If yes, then what action is taken against the accused in this connection," Dhruva questioned. He also asked about the compensation paid to the victims. In his reply, Tribal Development Minister Kedar Kashyap said a committee headed by Kanker district collector was directed to investigate the incident. "The action was taken against the accused in the case and also against the government officials who were found guilty of dereliction of duty," Kashyap said. He said as part of the compensation, the state has deposited Rs 2 lakh in the fixed deposit of each of the 15 victims, while an amount of Rs 60,000 was given to them under the Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Caste (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1995. "Besides, under the Victim Compensation Scheme, Rs 1.05 crore also allocated to Kanker's collector to disburse it among the victims," Kashyap added. Senior Congress MLA Satynarayan Sharma questioned why a state-level committee was not formed to probe such a serious incident. "The victims were yet to get the compensation amount of 1.05 core," he alleged. Citing involvement of husbands of certain female employees in sexual exploitation of inmates in several incidents, Leader of Opposition TS Singhdeo demanded that spouses of female employees of residential schools or hostels should not be allowed to stay with them within the premises. Replying to this, Kashyap said the process was underway to shift male employees and officials from such residential schools and hostels meant for girls. "At several places husbands of the women employees were staying but they are not allowed to enter into the hostel premises," he added. "Appointing only women employees at such premises is not going to prevent these incidents, what is also needed is the awareness among people," Kashyap said. However, unsatisfied over his reply, Congress members staged a walkout blaming the state government for its "failure" in ensuring safety of girl students.

World's oldest living man residing in Korba?

Chhattisgarh cop shoots own kids, wife before killing himself

agdalpur: In a shocking incident, Devnarayan Patel, the City Superintendent of Police, shot his wife and two children before turning the service revolver on himself in the wee hours in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh Tuesday. Jagdalpur City Superintendent of Police Devnarayan Patel (40) shot himself with his service weapon after gunning down his wife Pratima (35) at his official residence in Shaket Colony in Jagdalpur at 2 am. Son Aryan (6) and daughter Puja (11), who were also shot at, have been hospitalised, Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Arun Dev Gautam told a news agency. Patel's wife Pratima died on the spot while the children sustained severe bullet injuries and have been admitted to Ramkrishna Care Hospital in Raipur, the IG said. No suicide note has been recovered from the spot so far and prima facie nothing could be established as a reason behind the incident, the IG said, adding further investigations are on. Patel was suspended on Monday following a verbal spat with Additional District Judge, Bastar, A Toppo on Sunday, the IG said. Sources in the police department said Patel was apparently disturbed over his suspension which led him to take such an extreme step.

RAIPUR

pposition Congress on Thursday staged a walkout from the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly while accusing the state government of its "failure" to ensure security of girl inmates of the state-run residential schools and hostels. Congress MLA Shankar Dhruva raised the issue

man from Chhattisgarh's Korba district has claimed he is 117 years old, which makes him the oldest person alive in the world. Premsai Patel, a native of Tilhapatai village under Kartala block, has claimed he was born on May 11, 1896 and his age is 117 years and 8 months. If his claims are true, Patel could be the oldest person alive, two years older than the 115-year-old Misao Okawa, the current record holder who lives in Japan. To back his claim, the retired school teacher shows the Aadhaar card, a key government document which mentions his date of birth as May 11, 1896. He has witnessed four generations of his family, which comprise 50 members, including his three sons, the eldest of them being Itwari (80) followed by Mahesh and Ganeshram. Patel married again after the death of his first wife. According to Mahesh, his father had no particular diet regime and he hardly fell ill. He is still very healthy and does all his work at home on his own, Mahesh said. According to Statistics Officer of Korba, Madu Sahu, pre-2005 birth and death records are not available in the district. Earlier these records were being maintained at Bilaspur district. However, the records of 1896 would not be available there also, he said. Meanwhile, Korba Chief Medical Officer PR Kumbhkar said it is possible for human beings to live for 117 or more years. The correct age of a person can be verified through bone test, he added.

Naxalite activities have declined in Rajnandgaon: SP

RAIPUR

ajnandgaon district superintendent of police, Dr Sanjiv Shukla has said Naxalite activities had declined drastically in the region and dalam members were returning to the mainstream. After being tipped off by surrendered Naxalites, a joint team of district police and Indo-Tibetan Border police (ITBP) have recovered and defused three IEDs and a directional mine, planted by Naxalites near a forest road. Police have also arrested two Naxalites from Maoist-hit Bijapur district in tribal Bastar region. The cadres were nabbed while they were trying to flee into the forests, under Gangalur police station limits recently, Bijapur deputy superintendent of police, Sukhnandan Rathore said. Those arrested were identified as Punem Aytu (29) and Paiku Punem (35), active members of Gangalur area committee, he said. During interrogation, the

duo admitted of being involved in several incidents of crime, including arson and murder in the region, he added. Meanwhile, disillusioned with exploitation by Naxalite leaders from Andhra Pradesh, a Maoist leader and his wife recently surrendered before police in Rajnandgaon district. Additional director general of police (Naxal operations), Rajinder Kumar Vij, said in Rajnandgaon that 27-year-old Bhagat Jaade, was a member of Rajnandgaon-Kanker border divisional committee of outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist) and was also secretary of Dallirajhara area committee. His wife Vanoja alias Tejo Netam, 21, was a member of Aundhi local committee. They were active in the banned outfit for about five years. The Naxalite couple told police after their surrender, that they were disillusioned with harassment and exploitation of dalam members by the leaders. Vij said Jaade's father was a sarpanch of village Sahpal,

near Manpur area in Rajnandgaon district in 2005, the time when Naxalites began frequenting the region. Jaade came in touch with rebels, who used him for arranging supplies and later inducted him as a member of local area of Madanwada in 2007. In 2008, Jaade was shifted as Polemadi area committee member and later he became area committee secretary in 2011. Jaade said one of his

responsibilities was to enroll new members in CPI (Maoist) and he had played a crucial role in the process. However, there have been no new recruitments in the region for last two years, because of multiple factors including pressure being mounted by security forces. Jaade also told police that his younger brother Budhram Jaade, who was in police, was abducted and killed by Maoist Vijay Reddy and Kamlesh.

(MP&CG)

February 24 to March 2, 2014

Madhya Pradesh

05

BRIEF

British MPs appreciate Madhya Pradesh's development achievements

BHOPAL
A team of British Members of Parliament of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) has hailed achievements in development by Madhya Pradesh. The delegation of British MPs on visit of the state met Panchayats, Rural Development and Social Justice Minister Gopal Bhargava at his residence recently . They appreciated MP Government for significant growth in social and economic sectors and rapid development in rural areas of MP. The British MPs described Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan leading the state government for third time as very pleasant. On the occasion, extensive discussions were held on progress of programmes and schemes being implemented in the state with financial cooperation of British Government's Department of InternaBurns, Stephen Hepburn, Baroness Manzoor, Baroness Northever, Virendra Sharma and Dr. Roberta Blackman-Woods. The delegation also appreciated Ladli Laxmi Yojana to check female foetus and Mukhyamantri Kanyadan Yojana to prevent child marriages. They also discussed construction of allweather roads in remote villages of the state, availability of banking service within every 5 kilometre radius through ultra-small banks and communication facilities like internet connectivity to accelerate pace of development works in rural areas through information technology . They also apprised themselves with features of Samagra Social Security Mission launched to deposit benefits under various social security schemes and scholarships directly into beneficiaries bank accounts. They assured that DfID will provide every possible assistance for important programmes of social upliftment. Additional Chief Secretary Aruna Sharma informed about better implementation of departmental schemes and improvement in rural living standards through empowerment of three-tier Panchayat institutions. Significant achievements of Panch Parmeshwar Yojana for ensuring sanitation and environment improvement in rural areas, Maryada Abhiyan to eradicate habit of open-air defecation in rural areas and mid-day meal programme for school children were also underlined on the occasion. Smt. Sharma informed about features of Darpan software evolved to make accounting transparent in all 23 thousand 6 Gram Panchayats in the state. She also urged DfID to extend technical cooperation in this. The members were also provided printed copies of departmental schemes.

Tiny tiger cub sighted in Panna tiger reserve

Panna tiger reserve has brought laurels to Madhya Pradesh and country once again. During a search drive yesterday, a tiny cub was

sighted with tigress Panna-213 and Tiger-111 in Amanganj (buffer). With this, number of tigers in Panna reserve has increased to 25. It is noteworthy that this cub is the 10th tiger birth under Panna tiger rehabilitation project. This achievement has been registered within a span of 4 years in the reserve which had become tigerless. Panna-213 is the litter of tigress T-2, which is the only living adult tigress of existing tiger reintroduction project. It has given birth to 2nd litter. Panna-213 had given birth to second litter on December 5, 2014. But it was not disturbed by the reserves management in view of health security. On February 23, 2014 P-213 took her cubs to the kill for the first time leaving pugmarks of the cubs which are 2 months and 20 days old. On its basis, forest staff tracked and confirmed existence of cubs on February 24, 2014. It is noteworthy that Panna-213 had given birth to first litter in August 2013 which she had lost in just 10 days due to inexperience in nourishing, rains etc. Father to this litter of Panna-213 is Tiger Panna-111 which is the first litter of tiger T-1.

tional Development (DfID). Additional Chief Secretary Panchayats and Rural Development Smt. Aruna Sharma and other senior officers were also present on the occasion. Led by Liam Byrne, the delegation of British MPs comprises Baroness Blackstone, Sarv Simon

Habibganj station to be

Central India's railway hub H

Prisoners and visitors to talk while seeing each other

ome and Jail Minister Shri Babulal Gaur launched intercom meeting facility at

Central Jail for meeting between prisoners and relatives. In visitors room, prisoners and visitors will talk while seeing each other. Earlier, a grill used to be between prisoners and visitors which has been removed now. Central Jail Superintendent Shri M. R. Patel was present on the occasion. Shri Gaur inaugurated this facility in 2 separate rooms for under-trial and convicted prisoners. Under the system, a transparent glass has been put between prisoner and visitor due to which they can see each other while talking. Intercom facility has been provided so that they can hear each other clearly. This system is effective from security point of view also. Shri Gaur also took stock of arrangements at the Central Jail. He got trial of video-conferencing from jail and inspected electronic system to keep watch over every part of the jail through CC TV cameras. He also held

Rs 2 cr sanctioned for construction in 7 colleges

For the construction works in 7 degree colleges, Rs 2 crore 46 thousand has been sanctioned by Higher Education Department. Instructions have been given to complete the sanctioned work within time-limit. Rs 68 lakh 34 thousand has been sanctioned for room building in Government Degree College Maxi, district Shajapur, Rs 47 lakh 75 thousand to Paraswara in district Balaghat for 5 extra classrooms, Rs 46 lakh 88 thousand to Girls Post Graduate College Sagar for constructing common room and first floor, Rs 29 lakh 7 thousand to Arts & Commerce Degree College Jabalpur for constructing hall, Rs 8 lakh 18 thousand to Bara district Sagar for constructing cycle-stand and library counter, Rs 5 lakh 51 thousand to Barghat in district Seoni for hall & staff-room and Rs 3 lakh 75 thousand has been sanctioned to Shyam Narayan Mushran Women's Degree College Narsinghpur for electric fitting.

BHOPAL
The master plan of converting the Habibganj railway station into the railway hub of central India has been prepared under the policy of vision 2020. This railway station will be developed on the lines of Germany's Berlin railway station and Tianjin west railway station of china. These stations were reviewed and surveyed before the master plan was ready . The proposal includes the construction of conference hall, business centre, Retail shop, Museum, Art gallery, Restaurant along with a centre for entertainment and cultural activities. The passengers in this case will not have to wait on platform in case of delayed train as

they can pass their time accordingly . The master plan is prepared by the Indian Railway Station Development Corporation (IRSDC) keeping in mind the development of Bhopal in coming 40 years. The first presentation of the plan took place on 12th February in a meeting conducted between state government and railway officials. It will take around six years for this plan to take a proper and complete shape. One of the special features of the plan is that the transport system of the city has been kept connected in it. The officials of IRSDC said that there are 50 such stations in India that will be developed into world class railway station and Habib-

ganj has been selected from Madhya Pradesh. There will be 150 trains in the year 2053 as compared to 32 in 2013 as the number of passengers will go up to 80,000 from 25,313. Around 5,000 people will receive employment with the plan and residential buildings are also being constructed The choices like hotel, retail and restaurant will prove to be very beneficial for the passengers and their discomfort will be reduced to a great level. Around 74 acres of land will be developed to convert Habibganj into a railway hub. The selected area includes the land of railway colony. The area has been surveyed thoroughly before structuring the plan.

discussions with people coming to meet prisoners. On the appeal of women prisoners to transfer them to home district jail, Shri Gaur asked DG Jail that if women prisoners in Bhopal jail apply to get transferred to home district jail then their application should be considered if there is arrangement to keep women prisoners there. Shri Gaur checked quality of food served to prisoners and inspected kitchen. He inspected anganwadi in the jail being operated for women prisoners children. He also sought information about various other issues. Shri Gaur appreciated Bhajan sung by prisoners cultural group. Shri Gaur went round the jail hospital and held discussions with prisoner patients.

06

Editorial

February 24 to March 2, 2014 (MP&CG)

ASTROLOGY
26-02-2014- Wednesday - Falgun Mah Krishnapaksh-Dwadashi Positive directions - South and East Bad time - 12:33 pm to 2:00 pm Good time - 6:46 am to 9:40 am and 11:07am to 12:32 pm and 3:27 pm to 6:21 pm 27-02-2014-Thursday- Falgun Mah Krishnapaksh -Trayodashi (Pradosh) Positive directions - South and East Bad time - 2:00 pm to 3:27 pm Good time - 6:45 am to 8:12 am and 11:06 am to 1:59 pm and 4:54 pm to 6:21 pm 28-02-2014- Friday -Falgun Mah Krishnapaksh- Chaturdashi Positive directions - West and South Bad time - 11:06 am to 12:30 pm Good time - 6:44 am to 11:05 am and 12:31 pm to 2:00 pm and 4:55 pm to 6:22 pm 01-03-2014- Saturday -Falgun Mah Krishnapaksh- Amavsya Positive directions - West And south Bad time - 9:38 am to 11:06 am Good time - 8:11 am to 9:37 am and 12:33 pm to 4:55 pm 02-03-2014- Sunday - Falgun Mah Shuklapaksh- Ekam Positive directions - North and West Bad time - 4:55 pm to 6:23 pm Good time - 8:10 am to 12:33 pm and 2:00 pm to 3:28 pm 03-03-2014- Monday -Falgun Mah Shuklapaksh- Dwitiya (Tritiya Tithi Kshay) Positive directions- West and North Bad time - 8:10 am to 9:37 am Good time - 6:42 am to 8:09 am and 9:38 am to 11:05 am and 2:00 pm to 6:23 pm 04-03-2014- Tuesday -Falgun Mah Shuklapaksh - Chaturthi Positive directions-North and East Bad time - 3:28 pm to 4:56 pm Good time - 9:37 am to 2:00 pm By AACHARYA SARVESH E-Mail: acharya.sarvesh@yahoo.com Mobile: 9826609192

Kejriwal has his eyes set on

Lok Sabha not the aam aadmi
elhis Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has resigned. Kejriwal and AAP leaders are projecting the resignation as a political martyrdom. AAP supporters are claiming that Kejri-

wal has quit the Chief Minister`s chair without wasting a second over the Jan Lokpal issue. But, is it really so? Has Kejriwal become a victim of the political system or has he emerged as a winner? Has he really made any sacrifice or his resignation over the Jan Lokpal issue and his 48-day stint in politics was just a part of a well written script? Arvind Kejriwal must answer why his party sought no public opinion before resigning while it held referendum on almost every issue to validate its decisions. Actually, AAP is not worried about

the fate of Jan Lokpal, it has its eyes set on the Lok Sabha; and General Elections, not the aam aadmi, is in the centre of all its activities. Arvind Kejriwal had only this on his mind while he wrote the script of his resignation. A well thoughtout and a tight script, which portrayed the sufferings of aam aadmi, had sea of emotions, projected a hero taking on the system, had sympathisers, villains and a nautanki of sacrifices in it. Arvind Kejriwal wrote a perfect script and enacted it with full perfection during the 48 days till its end. That was Kejriwal`s USP. Through his script, Kejriwal left acclaimed screenplay writers like Salim-Javed miles behind because from the beginning to end, every scene was enacted as Kejriwal had intended. Amidst all this, Kejriwal proved that anything can happen if one has enough will power and a different line of thought. Kejriwal made a scathing attack on the rotting political system of the country and launched a successful crusade against red beacons and the VIP culture. Arvind Kejriwal & team got just 28 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly, while the BJP bagged 32. AAP needed 36 seats to be able to form the government in Delhi. There were more people in Delhi who wanted to see them sit in opposition than form the government. More precisely, this meant that they did not get the real mandate to rule. However, AAP later orchestrated the public referendum dra-

ma and decided to form the government by getting the consent of a select few, claiming it was the decision of voters in Delhi. The AAP government was formed eventually . In the last 48 days, Arvind Kejriwal made many promises, announced many policies, took rapidfire decisions and even fulfilled some of the promises made by the AAP in its election manifesto. The Kejriwal government announced 50 percent cut in power tariffs. Decision to supply 700 litres of free water daily was also made. A call centre to register cases of corruption was also set up. A helpline was formed to assist parents on nursery admissions. And apart from all this, the Team Kejriwal also made its presence felt through press conferences, statements and theatrics. But despite all this in his 48-day rule, Kejriwal should be asked few questions over his political activism and his flip-flops. Why Kejriwal kept mum on Robert Vadra, while he relentlessly targeted him before coming to power? His tirade against Vadra (Sonia Gandhi`s sonin-law) had played a big role in establishing him as a politician and people were expecting that some action would be taken against him, but he did nothing. Why Kejriwal remained quiet on the issue of Delhi Law Minister Somnath Bharti? In the past 48 days, Kejriwal said nothing against Congress - the very party he targeted - but did trouble Sheila Dikshit, who has now been sidelined by the Congress party .

Interim budget: Slashing of duties will help fight slowdown

he Indian economy has witnessed slowdown, with manufacturing sector hit during the year 2013. The unexpected slashing of excise duty for capital goods from 12 to 10 per cent is a great relief. More important was the deep cut in excise duties for the auto sector with respect to small cars, SUVs and large cars across the board. This will greatly increase the demand for passenger cars and help start a new cycle of growth for auto sector. Three more economic corridors are underway, which should help boost the manufacturing sector and exports. The interim budget also lays stress on skill development. The finance minister's speech mentioned the progress made in certified skills. The target is to skill 500 million people by 2022, and the additional allocation under this head will prove a boost. However, skill de-

VASTU TIPS FOR CHILDREN

Boys should never sleep in the northwest sector of the home or northwest part of the room Girls should never sleep in the southeast sector of the home or southeast sector of the room Never allow others to make use of the kid's study and bed area Avoid sleeping or studying in a room that has the door at an angle to the attached walls

velopment should have been linked with the MGNREGA to achieve the challenging target. The 10-point agenda for the future indicates the areas the next government would need to address urgently . Fiscal consolidation would have to remain at the top in order to make available investible resources to industry and to contain inflation. The commitment to attracting foreign funds was welcome, as India needs to evolve into a destination for overseas investors. The stress on infrastructure, with private-sector participation, as also the rationalisation of import duties to promote manufacturing, are welcome measures. There is no alternative to strengthening the manufacturing sector to create the millions of jobs that will be required by India's growing working-age population. Industry is pleased that the in-

terim budget took note of the urgent need to counter slowdown in growth, investments and manufacturing and came out with strong steps. For industry, the two issues of concern were revival of growth, particularly manufacturing, and fiscal consolidation. The interim budget delivers on both fronts. The GDP is expected to register growth of 5.2 per cent during the second half of the year, which means the economy is now on an upward

trajectory. Most of all, the strict adherence to the fiscal deficit for 2013-14, at 4.6 per cent, highlights the fact that the government has taken strong measures to prevent the fiscal gap from spiralling out of control. The Finance Minister also reiterated the commitment to bringing down the fiscal deficit further to 4.1 per cent next year, and reducing the revenue deficit to 3 per cent. This would set an excellent benchmark for the next government.

(MP&CG)

February 24 to March 2, 2014

Must Read

07

24x7 She Taxi Service for women launched in Kochi

KOCHI (Kerala): She Taxi, the 24X7 taxi service operated by women for women travellers, will be launched soon at Kochi city, after the successful implementation of the project in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The service initiated by the Gender Park, which functions under the Department of Social Justice, Government of Kerala, has been designed to ensure a safe and reliable mode of transport for women as well as to encourage entrepreneurship and self-employment among women. The '24x7 She Taxi Service' has an advanced safety enabled technology that would make travelling much safer and secure. Travellers can book the cab via online or mobile on a 24X7 basis. The traveller can dial a specific service number to book the taxi, which will be unique for the entire state. The traveller will receive a Unique Identification Code along with a 24x7 She Taxi service number. This will allow the traveller to verify the cab number before boarding the cab. The cab service will pick the traveller from the designated boarding point and drop at the specified destination.The cab, designed and integrated with Global Positioning system(GPS) will enable to monitor and track the activities of the traveller as well as the driver and will facilitate immediate aid in case of any emergency situation. Safe Me Mobile is a mobile based emergency alert application for She Taxi drivers outside the car. A control room had been set up to track and monitor the operations of the cab on a constant basis. All alerts will be received and vehicles will be proactively monitored from this control room. The support of public safety officers is also available. She Taxi is a project that enhances women entrepreneurship, selfemployment and financial security of women. The Kerala State Women's Development Corporation, another associate of the project, will give financial support for the entrepreneurs. KSWDC will provide loans for the entrepreneurs at a lower interest rate to purchase the vehicle. Gender Park is the owner of She Taxi service and they manage overall monitoring and coordination. Gender Park will identify the beneficiaries, select and extend fund support to them. Gender Park will organize promotional and branding activities of the project, awareness and training programmes to the entrepreneurs. Gender Park is an autonomous institution promoted by the Government of Kerala to resolve gender inequity in development. Gender Park acts as a convergence centre for Women Studies, Research Activities, Entrepreneurship Initiatives, Documentation, Library, Education, Health and Support, Business and Trade, Productive Sectors, etc. It has been created to tackle the problems and issues of women and to ensure better social security in all aspects of their wellbeing. At Gender Park, various activities of women are pooled into a common platform irrespective of social, political or economic divisions.

Women of Gurur village in Durg prove their prowess

RAIPUR
Women always prove their prowess against all odds. Many litterateurs and poets, world over, have described this distinguished characteristic of a woman, in their writings. To prove this the Scheduled Caste women from Gurur village under Bharda block of Durg district in Chhattisgarh have exhibited their potential by forming the Laxmi Self Help Group. Taking a common initiative, all the eleven members of SHG, decided to make "Agarbatti" sticks. The Central Government's rural poverty alleviation scheme known as - Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) turned out to be source of help to their endeavour. This ambitious scheme of the Centre, aims at providing self-employment to the poor families, living in the rural areas, so that they can solve their problem of unemployment and thereby improve their economic condition as well. Hence, they would also participate in the overall development of the country . The Bank of Baroda, Gurur branch had sanctioned an initial loan of Rs. 50,000/- on June 27, 2003, to this SHG under this scheme (SGSY). The members of the SHG started making Agarbatti sticks from this initial capital. The SHG

earned substantial profits, that too in a short period of time. Seeing this rapid progress, the Bank sanctioned another Rs. 50,000/-, three time in a row, making the entire loan amount up to Rs. 2 lakh. The members of the Laxmi SHG then multiplied their production and earned huge benefits collectively and returned the en-

tire loan amount with all the interest, quite successfully. The women from adjoining villages also started replicating the initiatives taken by the Laxmi SHG members. The chief of the Laxmi SHG Mrs. Budhanbai said that the group on an average is now selling around 10 to 15 quintals of Agarbatti packets every month

earning monthly income of about Rs. 40,000. Budhanbai further said that the net income is distributed among all the members of the Group, after excluding the production cost. The SGSY has turned out to be a milestone for the poverty alleviation in the rural areas of the country .

Chhattisgarh's best Anganwadi worker inspires others

happens to be a five star since there are no children under grade 3 & 4 of malnourishment. Earlier there were no Self Help Groups (SHGs) of women in the village but now 6 SHGs, have been formed under the leadership of Vedmati. 3 SHGs are running the Mid-day-Meal programme for the children of the school and 2 SHGs have got loan of Rs. 5000 each under the Indira Mahila Kosh to run a vocational training center for the livelihood of the members of the SHG. One SHG is running a society . Some of the best works done by the groups are resisting the local liquor vendors and asking to ban on the liquor in the village. Immunization has been increased to as high as 99% compared to no immunization in the beginning. With her endeavours earlier people who were believing more on SirhaBaiga and Gunia (Traditional Healers) have now changed their mind set and this initiative was taken by the group members and the village people have started believing in modern medicines. Vedmati is assisting in village school health programme by conducting health check up of children of Primary and Secondary school. Besides, she keeps all common medicines and distributes it to the needy patients.

RAIPUR
She is 28 years old and holds Masters Degree in Arts but she chose to be an anganwadi worker. If you happen to visit Talur Village Panchayat, which is about 40 kms from Bastar district, you cannot miss Vedmati Joshi, who is considered to be the best Anganwadi Worker.

She joined as Anganwadi Worker in the year 1996. Since then there is no looking back. She has been undergoing trainings on how to manage anganwadi four times on with refreshers training conducted by CARE and Department of Women and Child Development. Vedmati Joshi has inspired other Anganwadi workers in the state.

The Anganwadi Centre that presently she is taking care of is having a total number of 75 children. Out of which 18 children are under normal grade and 57 are malnourished. But no children are under grade 3 & 4 of malnourishment. How she manages? As per the Government of India norms, the Anganwadi

08

Region

February 24 to March 2, 2014 (MP&CG)

Jaipur slowly taking on international flavor

SANGEETA SHARMA E-mail:sangeeta.dsharma@gmail.com

ven though it has retained its historic splendor, there is no denying that the city is slowly taking on an international flavour. Once known to be a playground of the royals, the city has now world's best sport clubs, at its doorsteps. Top organisations, covering a wide range of sports from football, cricket to tennis, have zeroed in on Jaipur as a destination for the future, owing to its fast-developing infrastructure and enthusiasm for sports.

International institutions like FC Barcelona and Cricket Australia have already started conducting regular camps here. Football camps have quite well accepted by the folks of Jaipur. Recently FC Barcelona were overwhelmed by the response for their camp in the Pink City . "We were surprised by the huge turnout. It was good to see that many youngsters were registering for the camp," FC Barcelona Escola India's technical director Antonio Claveria Mayol said. This has encouraged both FC Barcelona

as well as Real Madrid, Spanish football giant, to think of setting up academies in the city soon. "We want footballers of the Pink City to get an international exposure," Real Madrid Foundation's Rosa Roncal had said during her last visit to India. Young footballers from the city are also gaining international recognition. Jaipur Football Club's success in the prestigious Gothia Cup held in Sweden, last year was a first for Jaipur. Similarly, camps of renowned international cricket academies such as Cricket Australia are spotted frequently in the city .

Mike Hussey, a former Australia cricketer is a frequent visitor to such camps teaching kids the basics of the game. "Nowadays, cricketers want to match with the international standards, and now that we have a good infrastructure , the top cricket bodies are showing interest in Jaipur," an official associated with the CA camp said. The city has not forgotten its roots. It continues to host some of the best polo and horse riding camps of the country. Over the years, the city has indeed made its mark in international sporting circuit.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Shri Advani dedicates Narmada-Kshipra Link Project
alwa region witnessed historic confluence of 2 holy rivers Narmada and Kshipra today . Ex-Deputy Prime Minister Shri Lal Krishna Advani dedicated Madhya Pradesh governments ambitiousRs. 432 crore NarmadaKshipra Link Project at Kshipras originating point at village Mund-

la Dostar (Ujjaini) in Indore district. Shri Advani said that this confluence will become a new centre of pilgrimage in the country . Abhishek of Lord Mahakal in next Mahakumbh will be done with Narmada water. This project has been completed in a short span of just 14 months. Shri Advani said

that whenever he comes to Madhya Pradesh, he witnesses new proofs of development. He said that only 14 months ago, apprehensions were being expressed that Malwa will turn a desert. This project will be fruitful for Malwa region. In future, Malwa will also get water as a result of

Shri Chouhans resolve to link Kali Sindh, Parwati and Gambhir rivers. Shri Advani said that former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee had announced riverlink project to save the country from droughts and overcome shortage of dirking water. A task force for this was constituted

headed by the then Minister Shri Suresh Prabhu. Giving a ruling to this effect, the Supreme court had directed in year 2012 to constitute a committee of ministers and officers and hold its meetings every 2 month. Shri Advani said that a similar project was undertaken in Gujarat by flowing Narmada water into Sabarmati rive

(MP&CG)

February 24 to March 2, 2014

Gloumar

09

Shahrukh Khan Post Katrina Kaif & Deepika now planning Padukone, Alia Bhatt falls ill to buy Football team after KKR
MUMBAI
fter, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone, now it's Alia Bhatt who has fallen ill. Yes, as per latest updates the Bhatt Baby is not keeping well these days. Alia took to "Twitter" to confirm her illness. As per reports, the young pout queen, who had to travel much while filming her second film "Highway", seems to have become so exhausted from the hectic schedule that she has fallen ill. Confirming about her illness, Alia tweeted, "Sorry guys little unwell.. All the exhaustion catching up! But ur tweets keep me going :)". The 20-year-old actress, who made her debut in Bollywood with "Student Of The Year (2012)", is receiving lots of appreciation for her role in "Highway", which is her second film. In the film Alia has been starred opposite "Murder 3" fame Randeep Hooda.

MUMBAI
B-Town celebs showing there keen interest in sports has become a fad these days. Few days back there were reports that Bollywood's Super Khan Salman Khan is planning to buy a stake in IPL and now we have heard that his foe-friend and B-Town Badshah Shahrukh Khan is eyeing to buy a Football team after IPL (Indian Premium League) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). While attending a press conference regarding his IPL team documentary, "Living With KKR" SRK said, "I would love to lead a Football team for Kolkata." "If we can manage it, we will do it. Football is certainly on cards," added King Khan. Apart from showing his love for Cricket, Shahrukh has many a times supported Football In fact, sometime back, SRK was even heard saying that he love playing Football personally and he would like the game to become as big and popular as Cricket. Also, many Football players think that Shahrukh's support could be a game changer for the game. Well, we hope that soon SRK's dream to buy a Football team come true.

Zarine Khan blames Katrina Kaif for failure in Bollywood

MUMBAI
How many of you remember Salman Khan's found beauty Zarine Khan? We guess no one, as she has neither achieved a respectable position in Bollywood nor locked enough headlines to stay in touch with her fans. But her recent Katrina Kaif is the reason behind her career's downfall, has brought her back in lime light. As per reports, Zarine, who was cited as Katrina Kaif's look alike in Bollywood and was expected to establish herself the same way in B-Town, recently blamed the 'Barbie Doll' for her career's draw back. The 26-year old actress, said, "The "unfair comparison" affected her career prospects. Even before my film was released, people started saying that the "Veer" heroine looks like so and so. And, the audience is such that they live with what they are fed. People didn't even give me a chance." "I guess the whole comparison with Katrina Kaif affected my career. Katrina is a beautiful person and probably, if I weren't in the same field as her, I'd be flattered by all the comparisons. I was a newcomer and even before the film actually released, people started criticizing me for my weight and acting skills! But they didn't realize I was asked to put on weight for the film," added Zarine. Zarine made her Bollywood debut with "Veer (2010)" opposite Salman Khan but failed to establish herself in B-Town. Later, the gorgeous beauty was also seen in an item track in film "Ready" but that also didn't fetch her great opportunities in Tinsel town.

Sonakshi Sinha gears up for action oriented roles!

MUMBAI
Bollywood's 100 crore girl, Sonakshi Sinha, who has been often criticized for her bulging figure has now grown a fitness freak for her forthcoming ventures. As per reports, Sonakshi is making lots of efforts to get in shape for her upcoming films "Holiday" and "Tevar". According to reports, the actress is getting sporty and into action mode for her upcoming projects. According to grapevine, Sonakshi in "Holiday" will be seen doing boxing. The dusky beauty in the film will be seen playing the role of a college girl. Also, the "Dabangg" girl is supposedly going to perform a stunt in "Tevar" herself, where she will be thrown off a five story building. In the film Sonakshi will be seen romancing Arjun Kapoor. Well, we hope that Sonakshi, who is mostly seen performing fun-do roles in films, performs her action sequences well.

10

Commerce

February 24 to March 2, 2014 (MP&CG)

MoUs signed at investors' summits being implemented speedily

BHOPAL
Work is progressing fast for implementing MoUs signed at Investors Summit at Indore in October 2012 and other summits with a view to promoting investment in industry and commerce sectors. Total 1101 investment proposals had been signed. Implementation of these proposals worth Rs. 3 lakh 77 thousand 678 crore will provide jobs to 20 lakh persons. These include 529 MoUs, 335 Expressions of Interest and 239 agreements. Of the 529 MoUs, 317 projects are in different stages of implementation. Work has begun on 42 projects costing Rs. 3,565 crore, 74 projects worth Rs. 3,718 crore are under construction and land has been allotted to 201 projects worth Rs. 68 thousand 299 crore. These 317 projects will provide jobs to 3 lakh 78 thousand people. Under the MoUs signed in tourism sector, A.G.-08 Ventures Limited, Bhopal has implemented Aakriti Nature Care Project at village Phanda in Huzur tehsil of Bhopal. The project costing Rs. 25 crore will provide jobs to 400 persons. A.G. 08 Ventures Limited, Bhopal has entered into an MoU to establish hotel and resort costing Rs. 50 crore at Madai, Hoshangabad for which land has been transferred. All permissions have been granted. Land has also been transferred to T&D Private Among projects of new and renewable energy, process is underway to allot land to 52 projects. In information & technology sector, 130 acre government land has been allotted at Indore to Infosys Limited, Bengaluru. In food processing sector, production of mushrooms has started in mushroom grooving and processing, milk processing and food process unit of Om Agro Products at Jabalpur. Production of dairy and food products will be started shortly . Khargone Mega Food Park Private Limited gas started cold storage at village Panwar in Khargone. Construction of cold storage on Khandwa-Indore Road is being completed by Shardiya Agrotech, Indore. In warehousing and logistics sector, Madhya Pradesh Warehousing & Logistics Corporation will establish godowns of 15 lakh MT capacity in 40 districts. As many as 136 new applications have been sanctioned for these godowns. In higher education sector, Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Indore and Maharashtra Institute of Technology are in the process of establishing private universities. Similarly, 113 MoUs were signed for micro, small and medium industries. Land has been allotted to 106 of them, 12 industries have started production, construction works have begun in 48 and construction works are going to started in 46 units.

Limited, Bhopal which had signed an MoU for constructing a 5-star hotel at Bhopal. The hotel has been constructed at MP Nagar, Bhopal. Tie-up with Courtyard Mariott has also been done. Among other tourism sector projects, on BhopalIndore Road, implementation of projects of hotel and resort amusement park is underway at village Bakaniya and Maheshwar, hotel and resort at Indore and resort and cottages at Budhni. Partial production is likely to begin in July 2014 at the spinning mill being established at Mahatwada in Sehore district by Messrs.

S.E.L. Manufacturing Limited. The project costing Rs. 7,200 is expected to provide jobs to 60 thousand persons. Messrs Vardhman Textiles Limited's spinning yarn and fabric production unit is expected to commence production in September 2014. Messrs Automative Axle Limited has been allotted 40 acre land in Betma industrial area, Indore for construction of auto component plant. Messrs Bharat Gears Limited has been provided 10 acre land in Dewas for auto component plant. Messrs Procter & Gamble Home Products is establishing a Rs. 640 crore hair shampoo plant at

Mandideep, which is expected to commence production in July 2014. Messrs Ranbaxy Laboratories has been allotted 52 acre government land at Malanpur, Bhind for pharma manufacturing plant. Messrs Cadbury India Limited's major expansion project plant is expected to start production at Malanpur, Bhind in July 2013. Similarly, Johan Dyer Indian Private Limited is establishing tractor, agriculture equipments manufacturing and assembly unit at village Khatamba in Dewas district, where production is expected to commence in July 2013.

Tremendous scope for food manufacturing sector: industrialists

Interim budget will help revive
RAIPUR Industrialists in Chhattisgarh have said the interim budget is highly encouraging for reviving manufacturing sector. However, Sharad Jaipuria, president, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the interim budget has nothing much for Chhattisgarh's core industries of iron, steel and mining, industry bodies in state but it has provided concession to manufacturing sector. He said the budget would ensure growth by boosting capital investments. PHDCCI hailed the government's decision in reduction of excise duties- from 12% to 10% on capital goods and consumer non-durables, from 12% to 8% on small cars, motorcycles, scooters and commercial vehicles, from 30% to 24% on SUVs and from 27-24% to 24-20% on large and midsegment cars. Jaipuria said this would not only enhance consumer demand vis-a-vis decline in prices but also propel manufacturing activity and employment opportunities. "Current year (2013-14), as indicated by finance minister in Monday's vote of account, would end with 4.6% of fiscal deficit which is lower than the an-

processing industries in India

NEW DELHI
India stands first in the production of milk, tea and pulses and is the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables, rice, wheat and sugarcane. India currently produces about 50 Million Tonnes of fruits, which is about 9% of world production and 90 Million Tonnes of vegetables accounting for 11% of world production. In spite of the strong raw material base, only about 2% of fruits and vegetables, 35% of milk, 26% for marine, 6% of poultry and 20% of buffalo meat are processed in India and as such there is still tremendous scope for food processing industries in India. A developed food processing industry would not only reduce wastages but would fetch remunerative income to farmers. Food Processing Sector has also tremendous export potential. Presently, India's share of global agriculture export is around 1.6%. In the last five years, the exports of processed food items have grown from Rs. 33,000 crores to Rs. 50,000 crores. Growth of the Food Processing sector has gone up from 7% in 2002-03 to 13.14% in 2012-13. The sector contributes 16% to the manufacturing GDP amounting to Rs. 2,80,000 crores. Food processing sector generates significant employment. The multiplier effect of investment in food processing industry on employment generation is 2.5 times more than in other industrial sectors, higher than any other sector. During last five years direct employment has grown from 3.9 million to 4.4 million. Indirect employment has grown from 6 million to 9 million. The processing level in the FPI sector has gone up from 6% to 10 % during last five years and during the next five years, the processing level is expected to reach 20%. Value addition in the food processing sector has also

ticipated level of 4.8%. Fiscal deficit estimates for coming financial year at 4.1% is also inspiring with increased subsidies for food, fertilizers and fuel at Rs 2,46,397 crore," Jaipuria said. Stating that budget's vision is in line with beliefs of Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), vice-chairman of CII's state council Manish Gupta said it highlights the importance of manufacturing sector, which is key to reviving economy . "The performance of manufacturing sector over last one year have been consistently poor and was in need of government's intervention," said Gupta. According to the CII, the reduction in excise duty on automobiles, capital goods and consumer electronics is welcome as this will help revive demand in these sectors. "It will also help capital goods industries in districts of Bhilai and Raipur," he said. Referring to finance minister's forward looking policy to promote electronics sector, Gupta said, "We hope that CII recommendation of abolition of special additional duty and reduction in CST for electronics sector will be taken up in regular budget" He said this is important as electronics is a zero duty sector on account of information technology agreement.

gone up from 20% to 26% in the last five years and during next five years, value addition is expected to go up from 26% to 35%. Wastage of perishable commodities has gone down from Rs.58000 crores to Rs.50,000 crores per annum in the last 5 years and during next five years, the wastage is expected to be further reduced to Rs.35,000 crores per annum. The growth rate of FPI units has risen from 7% to 13.14% p.a. in the last five years and it is expected to go up to 20% in next five years. While the Contribution to the manufacturing is expected to go up to 18% the director and indirect employment is likely to shoot up to 13.4 million.

Vision for FPI Sector

Vision, strategy and action plan has been finalized for giving boost to growth of food processing sector. The Vision envisages increase in level of processing of perishable food from 6% to 20%, value addition from 20% to 35% and share in global food trade from 1.6% to 3%. The level of processing for fruits and vegetables is envisaged to increase from the present 2.2% to 10% and 15% in 2010 and 2015 respectively. The Cabinet has approved the integrated strategy for promotion of agribusiness-Vision, Strategy and Action Plan for the Food Processing Sector, based on the recommendations made by the Group of Ministers (GOM) for growth of Food Processing Sector.

(MP&CG)

February 24 to March 2, 2014

Sports

11

Records Tumble as Black Caps Beat India

B
rendon McCullum sailed into the cricket record books by scoring 302 runs in a test match innings, the most by any New Zealand batsman ever, as he led his team to a 1-0 series victory over India, the worlds number two ranked team. McCullum scored his triple century in New Zealands second innings, which reached a record total of 680 runs for eight wickets. The previous highest score by New Zealand came in 1991, when Martin Crowes team scored 671 for four against Sri Lanka. Crowes 299 runs in the second innings of that test was the record individual score until Tuesday . The New Zealand team, popularly known as Black Caps, invited India to bat a second time shortly before lunch on the fifth and final day of remarkable given the collapse it suffered on the opening day. Then, the Black Caps were bowled out for just 192 inside 53 overs. McCullum scored eight. India scored 438 all out in its first innings, building up a healthy lead and what seemed a winning position. McCullums record-breaking 352run partnership with wicket-keeper B.J. Watling brought New Zealand back into the match. After Watling was trapped leg-beforewicket by Mohammed Shami, New Zealand could turn to debutant James Neesham, who will play for the Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League later this year. The 23-year-old scored 137 not out. fter the torrid first day, few expected New Zealand to last beyond the weekend. McCullums achievement is not so much about the figure, its the circumstances of its execution, New Zealand Herald said on its website. For many New Zealand fans this will be the greatest cricketing accomplishment they have seen in their lifetimes. Brendon McCullums father, Stu, joined the Basin Reserve crowd to give the Black Caps captain a standing ovation when he reached the milestone of 300 runs after batting 12 hours and 55 minuteslonger than any New Zealand batsman ever. Its great to be here and it is a very special moment, he told Sky Sports. Brendons elder brother Nathan also plays limited-overs cricket for New Zealand, which beat India 4-0 in one-day international series last month

the match. There wasnt enough time to bowl the visitors out, especially with Virat Kohli at the crease. The 25-year-old scored 105 not out, his sixth test century . India ended on 166 for three from 52 overs. The match was a draw, leaving New Zealand with a series

victory following its 40-run win over India in the first and only other test in Auckland earlier this month. The last time New Zealand won a test series against India was in 2002-03. New Zealands second innings in the Wellington test was all the more

Virat Kohli looks to India has potential to host tremendous World Cup: FIFA end Indias losing streak in Asia Cup opener
NEW DELHI

angladeshs captain Mushfiqur Rahim (L), Pakistans captain Misbah-ul-Haq (2nd L), Indias captain Virat Kohli (3rd L), Afghanistans captain \' Mohammad Nabi (2nd R) and Sri Lankas captain Angelo Mathews pose with the Asia Cup tournament trophy during a ceremony in Dhaka Reuters The Asia Cup which is in its 12th edition commences with a power-packed clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. India and Bangladesh on Wednesday will start things off for both the hosts and their neighbours. With MS Dhoni out due to injury, India will see Virat Kohli leading the team that are facing one of their worst performances with 12 losses in a row. India will be the huge favourites to end their losing spree as they look the stronger side. Bangladesh will have home support, but it is very unlikely that theyll be able to stop Kohlis India from winning the clash. The real challenge for the 25-year-old stand-in captain will be when India play old rivals Pakistan and Sri Lanka later in the tournament with hopes of clinging on to the No2 ranking in the ICC ODI table that is at stake.

Satisfied with the current infrastructure in place, a FIFA team, which is here to inspect stadia, on Wednesday said India has the potential to host a "tremendous Under-17 World Cup" in 2017, but asked the AIFF to be proactive in its planning and execution. "All the potential is there to make it a tremendous World Cup and leave a tremendous legacy for youth football in India," said Inaki Alvarez, Deputy Director and Head of Event Management Competitions Division, FIFA. The All India Football Federation, though, surprisingly barred the media from interacting with the FIFA team after the inspection at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, one of the eight venues shortlisted by the AIFF to host the event. But before he got down to work, Alvarez had quite a few encouraging words to say as far as India`s ability to host the mega-event was concerned. "It`s been a week and we have visited five cities. So far the experience has been very good, very positive... All infrastructure is there, organisation well done. I can say that we are heading in a very good directions," Alvarez said.

Asked what about his main areas of focus, he said, "There are number of aspects... Infrastructure, stadium itself, dressing rooms, pitch, TV facilities and various other facilities. "It`s a long process, it`s not about today, tomorrow. It will take several months if not years, we are going to analyse each stadiums and infrastructure," he added. The Spaniard said India has enough time on hand to get tournament ready . "There is enough time, there is no emergency, but you should keep the urgency of what needs to be done. The time you have is good enough to complete everything in good manner, it`s good if you set up a project plan to complete everything in time. Asked if FIFA has a deadline in

mind, Alvarez said, "There are deadlines and this is what I meant when I said it`s a long process, there are going to be normal delays but all that has been taken into account. "We have met government officials, both at national and state levels, and it has been quite positive." Indian football`s Technical Director, Rob Baan, had recently spoken about the importance of organising a pre-World Cup event one year before the main tournament, and when Alvarez was asked about that, he said, "We can get the infrastructure ready one year in advance with good planning and execution. We are pretty comfortable with where we are right now and this is the proper way to do it." The FIFA team was accompanied by AIFF officials. The team had visited the venues in Pune and the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai last Saturday followed by Goa. They had also visited facilities in Bengaluru and Kochi before arriving in the Capital. Guwahati and Kolkata are the other two cities that the FIFA team will be visiting. The two-member team will submit its report, following which six venues will be finalised to host the six groups of four teams each.

Ishant Sharma to skip Delhi's first two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches

ut-of-favour India pacer Ishant Sharma has excused himself from Delhi's first two Vijay Hazare Trophy (North Zone one dayers) matches citing fatigue after having bowled a lot of overs during the recently concluded Test series in New Zealand. Delhi will open their campaign against Jammu and Kashmir at the Feroz Shah Kotla ground on Thursday and will play the formidable Punjab side in their second game on

March 1. Ishant will be missing both the matches. "Ishant has just come back from New Zealand. He has bowled a lot of overs and had asked us for rest. That's why the team management has decided to give him rest for the first couple of games. That's why, he is not even training currently," Delhi's chief coach Sanjeev Sharma told PTI on Tuesday . Ishant has bowled 96 overs in two Test matches in New Zealand

where he took 15 wickets including two six-wicket hauls. He was good in patches but overal very inconsistent. He bowled 62 overs in the second Test including 45 overs of wicketless bowling in the second innings when Brendon McCullum and Bradley-John Watling took the game away from India. Asked whether Ishant will be available for Delhi's third match against Himachal Pradesh, coach Sharma sounded positive.

12

Nation

February 17 to February 23, 2014 (MP&CG)

Soft drink products should have health warnings, says PIL

After Telangana, various other statehood demands expected

W
S. MANI Email: sastrymani@hotmail.com
ith Telangana all set to be formally declared as the 29th state of India, after the Rajya Sabha approved the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill 2014, a kind of way ahead has been reached for meeting various other statehood demands in the country . Although, several sections in the country may debate the formation of this new state in their own 'valid' ways, Telangana would soon find a marking on the geographical map of India. Nevertheless, it was not the only demand (of claiming separate statehood) in the country of its nature, as there are very many others in place, for a long time now, of similar view. Major statehood demands in the country, which will only get louder once Telangana officially comes into existence, are listed below. successive state governments of neglecting the needs of the region for the past six decades. Bundelkhand Mukti Morcha has been raising the issue for the past many years. The separate state includes 13 districts - seven from the Uttar Pradesh and six in the MP. Jhansi, Jalaun, Lalitpur, Hamirpur, Mahoba, Banda are the districts from UP which form Bundelkhand state. Chitrakoot, Datia, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Damoh and Sagar are the ones from Madhya Pradesh. Some other districts are Morena, Sheopur, Bhind, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Guna, and Narsingpur. Jhansi or Banda is the proposed capital of Bundelkhand.

JABALPUR: Madhya Pradesh High Court recently gave some soft drink manufacturing companies the last opportunity to reply to the notice issued earlier by the court on a PIL asking them to print health warning on the pack of their products. The court had earlier served notices on the Union government and the companies on a PIL seeking direction to some soft drink companies to mention statutory warning on their products. The PIL alleges that the soft drinks products of some companies carry harmful substances like 2-toludine and aniline beyond permissible limits. But as the soft drink manufacturers didn't reply to the notice, the court gave them 30 days' time more. After this if the companies still don't reply to the notice, the high court will take suitable action against them. The petition is based on a research article published in Journal Anal Methods 2011 (3) authored by a team of scientists of Chemistry Department of Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur. The team in its research found that different flavours of soft drinks produced by Rasna Linda (Pune) and the Kraft Foods (Thailand) had aniline and 2toludine in excess against permitted level of aromatic amines. The research revealed grape flavor of soft drink contained aniline 45.62 microgram and 2-toludine 82.82 microgram, while the pineapple flavor contained aniline 260 microgram and 2-toludine 40 microgram and the lemon flavour was found contained with aniline 425 microgram and 2-toludine 535 microgram, the PIL claimed. Many aromatic amines could cause damage to DNA and are harmful to humans as they can cause cancer and need to be monitored, Verma told the court. The excess quantity of aniline and 2-toludine is carcinogenic and therefore is an unsafe for consumption as per Food Safety and Standard Act, the PIL said. Akin to the statutory warning carried on cigarettes packets, the same should be mentioned on the soft drinks, the counsel said. A division bench comprising Chief Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice KK Lahoti issued the notices during preliminary hearing of the PIL filed by social organization Nagrik Upbhokta Margdarshak Manch.

Vidarbha: Maharashtra & Mp

The demand for formation of separate Vidarbha state is one of the oldest in the country. Vidarbha movement receives widespread support from several political parties, and organizations in the state. The proposed state corresponds to the eastern 11 districts in Maharashtra. The region of Vidarbha is very different geographically, his-

torically and culturally from Mumbai. Also, for the reason, the region is politically stressed and economically lacking in comparison to other parts of western Maharashtra, residents demand separate statehood since ages. The demand for Vidarbha state was raised for the first time over 100 year ago. It was on 1 October 1938 at Nagpur that the Central Provinces legislature passed a unanimous resolution to create a separate state of Mahavidarbha for the first time. And since then, the demand has been finding voice time and again.

of Gorkha (from Nepal) origin in the region of Dooars in northern West Bengal. The demand is based on the ethno-linguistic rights of the local people and it was in the year 1907 that claim of such nature was first made. Gorkhas demand a recognizable identity for themselves similar to others living in Darjeeling and other parts of north Bengal. The Indian history records two mass movements under the flag of Gorkha National Liberation Front (1986-1988) and Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (2007-till date).

Bundelkhand: Up,Mp & Rajasthan

Bundelkhand is one of most popular names for a separate statehood demand and will only get louder, with Telangana coming into existence now. The locals accuse the

Gorkhaland:West Bengal

The demand of Gorkhaland has been raised by the people of Darjeeling hills along with the people

Purvanchal (Eastern UP), Harit Pradesh (Western UP), and Awadh Pradesh (Central UP) are three small states (Bundelkhand is the fourth state) for which demand has been raised many times in the past. Uttar Pradesh has already seen Uttrakhand parting away from it. Purvanchal or eastern UP will have 32 districts and Allahabad may be its capital. Central UP or Awadh Pradesh will get 14 districts with Lucknow as its capital, as proposed by the people demanding the state. Harit Pradesh comprises of 22 districts in west UP and has Meerut as its proposed capital.

Harit Pradesh, Awadh & Purvanchal: Uttar Pradesh

Capital city is bone of contention after formation of Telangana

eparate Telangana state has just been delivered with the Rajya Sabha also passing the bill for the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. And just like it was 60 years ago, the bone of contention has been the capital city . The argument of the Andhra protesters, who finally settled for a division, was that Hyderabad should be made into a union territory. The argument they had was that Hyderabad developed in recent decades only because of the investment of those from the Andhra region. To settle the issue, the Centre has made Hyderabad a common capital for 10 years. In 1953, the Telangana region did not want to be part of the Andhra state that was carved out then. But, the demand to remain as a separate state was pushed aside

S. MANI Email: sastrymani@hotmail.com

and Telangana region was made part of the Andhra Pradesh state. What began as an agitation soon after this, culminated six decades later with Telangana now all set to become the 29th state in the country. Protesters demanding Telangana did not get the needed support from Delhi for their demand for a separate state in the past. The then Prime Minister Jawa-

harlal Nehru understood the demand for a separate Telangana state but when it came to taking the decision, he took a step back. The agitation for a separate Telangana state intensified in 1969 and a few hundred people were killed in the agitation. If Jawaharlal Nehru did not show interest in carving a separate Telangana state, neither did his daughter Indira Gandhi. Though the agitation intensified during her rule, Indira Gandhi as Prime Minister also made it clear that she was not in favour of a separate Telangana state. What she did not do, her daughter-in-law Sonia Gandhi has done for Telangana. Sonia Gandhi as UPA chairperson and as president of the Congress party lent support to the Telangana cause. It took some years for her to decide but decide she did, in favour of Telangana. During the 2004 elections, Sonia Gandhi had shared

the dais with Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) leader K Chandrasekhara Rao saying that she understood the sentiments of the Telangana people. The understanding did not go beyond that and there was no action then. Now, in 2014, the UPA government has granted Telangana. In the last few years, scores of youth committed suicide in the Telangana region. Protesters, who came under a common banner irrespective of their political affiliation, brought the state to a grinding halt on several occasions. The protests in Telangana were matched with protests from the Andhra and Rayalaseema regions but eventually, Parliament favoured a separate Telangana state. Telangana protesters this time made it clear that they could not imagine Telangana without Hyderabad which was part of it for centuries.

Owned Printed and Published by M.M.Baig. Printed at lucky, 267, Pragati Nagar, Shahanshah Garden, Bhopal (MP) and published from H.No.101, A-SECTOR INDRAPURI BHEL, WARD NO.63 DIST BHOPAL-462021, M.P. Tele/FAX 0755-4292545,Mob.09425029901 email-editor@wethestate.com RNI No. MPENG\2012\46415 Editor: M.M. BAIG -Responsible for selection of News & Articles under PRB Act, Subject to Bhopal jurisdiction