tambaramblog

Bangladesh is less corrupt than India and Pakistan

2010-12-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

Bangladesh fares better than India and pakistan according to Transparency International survey.

Govt Approves Policy on Return Of Militants From PoK

2010-12-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

http://www.indiajournal.com/pages/event.php?id=13280

This is the beginning of more terrorist activities originating from Pakistan. Previously, those terrorists have to come across tough terrain (mountains, oceans) to enter India to do anti-national activities. Now, the government is facilitating easy movement of terrorists. Tax payer's money at work. Good governance. In a few years time, the government would give death benefits and Govt. Job to the next of kin.

Delhi gangrape: The main accused is a repeat offender

2010-12-02T05:43:00.001-08:00

That's ridiculous, the main culprit is a repeat offender. He did his previous gang rape with his uncle and brother. Next what? he does another gang rape with his father and grand father. This is a fit case for capital punishment. Hang him. He is an insult to India.

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/delhi-gangrape-3-arrested;-case-solved-say-cops/719438/2

Kayani has learned the lesson from Musharraf: Wikileaks

2010-12-01T08:27:00.000-08:00

http://www.zeenews.com/news671546.html

The military in pakistan has been playing behind the scene role since independence. So, it would be most appropriate to say kayani learned from mush, zia, yahya, ayub, etc. India knows this for decades. The western media realizes this fact recently and trumpeting it as if it has made an invention. Its hardly any news for Indian Intelligence sleuths. Even the common man in India knows this.

clinton's errant rant

2010-11-29T23:23:00.000-08:00

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/After-WikiLeaks-US-for-global-leadership-role-for-India/articleshow/7014185.cms

She is good at romancing with Shah mohammed Quareshi (pakistani minister) in public than handling state affairs, Like her husband former U.S. president Bill clinton (monica lewinsky).

Police force understaffed, over 3 lakh vacancies: Chidambaram

2010-11-26T06:15:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: On the second anniversary of the 26/11 terror attacks, Union Home minister P Chidambaram today underlined the need for modernising police force to ensure it performs well in times of distress.

"We must give them proper shoes, proper uniforms. We must give them proper training. We must give them proper weapons. We must give them a decent pay and decent housing," Chidambaram said.

"If we neglect recruitment, clothing, footwear, weapons, training, housing, how will we have a police force that will rise to the occasion in times of tragedy and times of distress?" he said, at a function after handing over a CNG station dealership to family of 26/11 martyr Tukaram Ombale.

We have learnt many lessons in the last two years, the minister said, adding that "I sincerely hope that we continue to learn many more lessons."

"One of the most important lessons is that we must pay attention to police force. If we do not pay enough attention to police force of the country, we will not have an efficient and well-equipped police force in times of distress.

"We must recruit more policemen. There are still over three lakh vacancies in the constabulary in the country," he said.

"In the last two years, states have responded to my call. We have done quite a bit."

Chidambaram hoped that Maharashtra under the new leadership of new chief minister Prithviraj Chavan would show the lead.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/Police-force-understaffed-over-3-lakh-vacancies-Chidambaram/articleshow/6995767.cms

The home minister's statement implies we are still vulnerable to terrorist attack. Lessons were learned after two years. We will implement the lessons learned in a decade's time. By that time, terrorists aided by Pakistan will probably will have even advanced weapons. The tax paying common men will have to put up with that with the lives of the near and dear ones. The Bureaucrats enjoy the security cover (with the tax payers money) and will be busy looting the tax payers money with yet another scam to the magnitude of say 1 lakh crore or even more. Good governance.. No wonder even smaller neighbors are threatening us.

Interesting site to know the worth of my body parts

2010-11-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

$3640.00

Created by OnePlusYou - Free Dating Sites

Conspiracy theories of an pakistani Brigadier

2010-08-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

Mentioned below are my comments for an article written by a pakistani Brigadier (he has authored several books). I am surprised to know that a person of his stature could believe in conspiracy theories!

http://www.veteranstoday.com/2010/08/30/indo-us-israel-afghan-collaborative-game-against-pakistan/

I was hoping for insightful inputs about conflict resolution rather than conspiracy theories.

At one point he blames the whole world (CIA, RAW, Mossad, RAAM and even FBI, does he even realize that FBI is an investigative agency, its jurisdiction is within United States) for pakistan’s miseries. And he is a retired Brigadier.

wikileaks-documents-indicate-pakistan-supports-the-taliban

2010-07-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

Mentioned below are my comments in an article published in a leading online publisher regarding the pakistani support for extremists. The link is mentioned at the end of the article

The ISI or Pakistan Army support for Taliban or other criminal organisation is happening for a long time, that predates 9/11. The funds for the 9/11 was wiretransferred by a former pakistani intelligence official to Mohammed Atta.

Atleast wikileaks did what it should as a free press to stop the $7.5 billion(tax payers money) which otherwise would have been disbursed to them in a few years(excluding the $10 billion already paid to them). In a futile exercise to stop them supporting the extremist elements.

http://patterico.com/2010/07/25/wikileaks-documents-indicate-pakistan-supports-the-taliban/

Pakistan's nuke arsenal bigger than India's

2010-06-03T07:13:00.000-07:00

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Pakistans-nuke-arsenal-bigger-than-Indias/articleshow/6005178.cms

Six militants, two soldiers killed in gunbattle in north Kashmir, operation on

2010-05-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

Below mentioned is my reply comment for a pakistani posters comments regarding an kashmir article.

Since when it became your land you B*****d. You ppl came from arabia and massacred Inhabitants of our land. And you wanted to call this as your land. You Son of a B***h Shah never ever again post comment in this page. You guys are first cousin Ra***s, Your prophet mohammad is a paedophile or a child R***r. You son of B*****s never talk about morality. what we have given to you as pakistan is still our land. Let be content with it. If you aggravate the situation. We have 1 billion Population. You will be covered by P*SS and SH*T.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/6--militants-2-soldiers-killed-in-gunbattle-operation-on/Article1-540687.aspx#dsq-comments

Weight Loss - is it difficult

2010-04-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for valuable information through out the internet for weight loss. As usual we get tons of websites which claim they have the magic product which will reduce the weight in few weeks. So, decided to make an enquiry about weight loss products with one of my physician friend. His reply was "Don't waste your money". The only way left apart from surgery is to have a planned diet and exercise. This is a time consuming and slow process, but very effective method to reduce weight. So, mining for usefull information about diet and exercises. Posting some of which i found in the internet.

The first step in reducing weight is to understand what is the ideal weight.

Determining Your Ideal Weight
Male
Height Ideal Weight
4' 6'' 63 - 77 lbs.
4' 7'' 68 - 84 lbs.
4' 8'' 74 - 90 lbs.
4' 9'' 79 - 97 lbs.
4' 10'' 85 - 103 lbs.
4' 11'' 90 - 110 lbs.
5' 0'' 95 - 117 lbs.
5' 1'' 101 - 123 lbs.
5' 2'' 106 - 130 lbs.
5' 3'' 112 - 136 lbs.
5' 4'' 117 - 143 lbs.
5' 5'' 122 - 150 lbs.
5' 6'' 128 - 156 lbs.
5' 7'' 133 - 163 lbs.
5' 8'' 139 - 169 lbs.
5' 9'' 144 - 176 lbs.
5' 10'' 149 - 183 lbs.
5' 11'' 155 - 189 lbs.
6' 0'' 160 - 196 lbs.
6' 1'' 166 - 202 lbs.
6' 2'' 171 - 209 lbs.
6' 3'' 176 - 216 lbs.
6' 4'' 182 - 222 lbs.
6' 5'' 187 - 229 lbs.
6' 6'' 193 - 235 lbs.
6' 7'' 198 - 242 lbs.
6' 8'' 203 - 249 lbs.
6' 9'' 209 - 255 lbs.
6' 10'' 214 - 262 lbs.
6' 11'' 220 - 268 lbs.
7' 0'' 225 - 275 lbs.

Female

Height Ideal Weight
4' 6'' 63 - 77 lbs.
4' 7'' 68 - 83 lbs.
4' 8'' 72 - 88 lbs.
4' 9'' 77 - 94 lbs.
4' 10'' 81 - 99 lbs.
4' 11'' 86 - 105 lbs.
5' 0'' 90 - 110 lbs.
5' 1'' 95 - 116 lbs.
5' 2'' 99 - 121 lbs.
5' 3'' 104 - 127 lbs.
5' 4'' 108 - 132 lbs.
5' 5'' 113 - 138 lbs.
5' 6'' 117 - 143 lbs.
5' 7'' 122 - 149 lbs.
5' 8'' 126 - 154 lbs.
5' 9'' 131 - 160 lbs.
5' 10'' 135 - 165 lbs.
5' 11'' 140 - 171 lbs.
6' 0'' 144 - 176 lbs.
6' 1'' 149 - 182 lbs.
6' 2'' 153 - 187 lbs.
6' 3'' 158 - 193 lbs.
6' 4'' 162 - 198 lbs.
6' 5'' 167 - 204 lbs.
6' 6'' 171 - 209 lbs.
6' 7'' 176 - 215 lbs.
6' 8'' 180 - 220 lbs.
6' 9'' 185 - 226 lbs.
6' 10'' 189 - 231 lbs.
6' 11'' 194 - 237 lbs.
7' 0'' 198 - 242 lbs.

Food items that can be consumed freely in any desired quantity are:

1. Vegetables and green salads (especially containing tomatoes and cucumbers)
2. Fresh fruits (except banana)

Food items that must be taken in a limited quantity are:

1. Milk (250 ml or half a bottle or one and a half cupful). This is the quantity for the whole day and includes the milk taken in tea and coffee.
2. Butter, ghee, oil or cream – 2 to 3 small tea-spoonful. Some diet experts advice to stop taking them altogether.
3. Three to four chapattis (without applying ghee on them) per day or 1 to 2 oz (i.e., half to one small bowlful) rice.
4. One small bowlful dal or Green gram (moong) soup during the whole day.
5. One or two small potatoes during the whole day.
6. Eggs
7. Fish
8. Meat

Barring the above-mentioned items no other food should be taken.

Food items that are not allowed are:

1. Sugar, chocolate, peppermint, sweets, jam, honey, etc.
2. Fruit-juices
3. Alcohol
4. Biscuits, cakes, etc
5. Ice cream
6. All other grains and pulses barring those mentioned above.

Six Pack Diet

1.Protein Diet - To get a six packs it is important that you build your muscles. Muscles which are firm. Protein is the building block of muscles. For proper Protein content one should include cheese, chicken, fish, milk and egg white in their meal. Tuna and salmon fish are the best source of protein.

2.Carbs – Avoid consumption of starchy carbs. They add on to the fat and disturb digestion. Starchy carbs include bread, pasta etc. Good carbs, however, should be included in every meal because they are a great source of energy. This constant flow of energy will support your extended exercise regime.

3.Small Dinner – After dinner, when we go off to sleep, our body is at complete rest and this gradually reduces the metabolism rate. Thus, calories are less burnt at night. This means that the body takes in all the fat consumed by you. Thus, a heavy diet at dinner, will add on more to your fat accumulation. Thus, it is advised to take a very light dinner and go for a walk after that. It is best to meet your hunger with fruits and vegetables. They are good source of nutrients and carbs but do not provide excess fat to the body.

4.Eat After Workout – Till four hours after workout, the metabolism is at it's peak. Thus, it is advised that one should take meal with this time so that the body burns out all the calories, thus storing less fat. Don't let your metabolism die out.

5.4-6 Meals A Day – Generally we eat three meals a day but the six pack diet demands you break you food intake of the day into 4-6 times. This keeps your metabolism going and thus burning of your calories are on. Make sure to include a dose of protein in your every diet, so that your body does not need to muscle for fuel source.

Six Pack Diet plan supports your workout regime and ensures healthy living and lifestyle

References
http://www.natural-fatloss.com/diet-plan-providing-600-calories.htm
http://www.natural-fatloss.com/fat-loss-diet.htm
http://living.oneindia.in/men/for-him/2010/six-pack-diet-141010.html

Pune blast clouds trust ahead of peace talks

2010-02-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/the-sunday-et/dateline-india/Pune-blast-clouds-trust-ahead-of-peace-talks/articleshow/5570520.cms

After all this do we still think that pakistan deserves India's generosity. More than 2 decades of terror attacks killing innocent people. For those who supported for the inclusion of Pakistani players in IPL, go burry your heads in the sand.

SI's murder: TN Ministers refute charge of apathy

2010-01-09T11:09:00.000-08:00

It was outrageous to see ministers and public servants(District collector, health secretary and escort police men) who are supposed to serve people are reluctant to help a police official. forget about the ministers and the collector who were at the scene, they are selfish as always. They never care about the comman man. But i wanted to ask, is this the help you get from the fellow police official who were on the escort duty? they are scared to even touch the police official who was fatally injured. It shows how our social system works. i am terribly disappointed.

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/45879/sis-murder-tn-ministers-refute.html

Next terrorist attack may be a airborne attack

2009-06-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

Nearly 5000 terrorist attacks has happened in India with more than 12,000 fatalities since independence. Yet our government has done very little to prevent it, our police men still use the .303 rifles which is obsolete in most other countries. During the 26/11 trial one of our police man said his .303 rifle was struck and was not able to fire at the terrorist. This is the state of our internal security. Political head enjoy z- category security drawing men from NSG equipped with Light machine guns, on the other hand state police have .303 rifle employed to protect common man. Prediction of terrorist attacks are impossible as people would say. Our security establishments would argue is there a proven methodology to detect terrorist attacks. Well, the answer is none. There is no proven methodology to identify terrorist attacks. But, the western countries like U.S and U.K are employing some standard methods coupled with advanced technology to prevent such attacks. Recently the United Kingdom has arrested 10 pakistanis, the reason being planning a major terrorist in U.K. The United states arrested 2 of its citizens who were converted muslims and planning for a attack. Our intelligent agencies would keep complaining that its impossible to detect a terrorist attack. We common people are getting hit, that's the part of life for the past few decades. Does that leave us to defence ourselves. May be true whats wrong in be proactive than depending upon the government for our safety.

I as a common man and a citizen of india would like to predict the next terrorist and be extra cautious during those period. We have insurgencies in Assam, Nagaland, Manipur and most importantly Kashmir. Insurgencies in North East do not have significant support of foreign governments (like mayanmar or bangladesh). Though they have some degree of support from both these countries, they would not like to anger india by facilitating a major terrorist attack in the heartland. They would know the consequences and would not like to face the wrath of india. So, this leaves us with just one option which is gravely dangerous, that is kashmiri insurgency. The moderate kashmiri insurgents want greater autonomy rather than outright independence. Even the hardcore kashmiri insurgents wanted to fight the military rather than terrorising the common people. So, the pakistani intelligence apparatus under the guise of kashmir is attacking India with its trained agents.

There are more logical proof to the claim of pakistani intelligence apparatus involvement in terrorist attacks. The timing of these terrorist attacks are according to the convenience of pakistan. During the early days of the kashmiri insurgency they were targetting kashmir infrastructure, because that would thwart any development and people welfare. That would make kashmir similar to Somalia, additionally that would keep the local population impoverished and ready for terrorism. After the demonstrating their nuclear weapons capability they began doing more dastardly terrorist attacks in the Indian mainland. Because they for sure know India would not retaliate because of nuclear threat. Hardly one year after they tested their weapons they indulged in Kargil in 1999. In the same year during December they indulged in Indian Aircraft Hijack in return for 3 most dreaded terrorists, masood azar and omer sheik were among them. Since then they are attacking us every two years. Mentioned below is list of attacks since 1999.

Pakistan misadventure since 1999
Year Attack
1999 Kargil in may and Plane hijack in december
2001 Indian Parliament attack
2003 Mumbai commuter train bombing in march
2005 IISC attack in bangalore during december
2007 Hyderabad attack in august
2008 Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai were attacked

The frequency of their attacks has increased recently. Moreover what does the common people of mumbai, hyderabad, bangalore, delhi, ahmedabad has to do with kashmir. They (pakistanis) envy our economic growth, like we do about the chinese economic development. They are not able to match our growth and alteast wanted to disrupt it.

According to START (the University of Maryland and the US National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism )38.7 per cent of terrorist events were facility attacks, 29.7 per cent were bombings (in which the intent was to destroy a specific facility), and 25.5 per cent were assassinations. So, their aim is to attack symbolic targets and other people frequented places to create high human causality and attract media attention. From the above mentioned information we could predict that they target important places approximately every two years. So, the attack might happen anytime between december 2009 to August 2010. Now lets discuss the mode of the attack. Recently the Western Navy has conducted a large scale exercise involving the coast guard and other coastal security to prevent terrorist attacks through sea. The indian intelligence agencies have busted few local terrorist modules. This leaves the ISI and terrorist organisation to look for new modes of attack. It may be a airborne attack, the airport security of our neighbouring countries like nepal, bangladesh and Srilanka is not so strict. So, they may hijack a plane from either of these countries to target some landmark buildings of their convenience.

Now its a two way race between the terrorist and the indian security. I would be more inclined to see the indian security establishment win. Though this prediction is purely my imagination, i would request all the readers not to get panicked. Instead i would be happy if you could post some innovative suggestion to prevent such attacks or to be more security conscious.

Pathetic show by India. is IPL the reason

2009-06-14T13:34:00.000-07:00

Bowlers and Fielders were good at comedy
India inspite of spending multi-million dollars for IPL, played like minnows in world Twenty20 cricket cup. The manner in which our batsman were exposed to short pitched deliveries were disheartening. They failed in all departments in the previous game against westindies, the repeat of it happened tonight against England. Yuvraj and Raina who were supposed to be our best fielders misfielded, Zaheer khan and Ishant sharma were comical in their fielding efforts. One could argue if they get injured it would affect their bowling performance. But their bowling performances were even worser. I could not believe they were getting hit all over the park with disdain. They could not bowl 90 mph. Most of the teams have strike bowlers who could bowl more than 90mph. Srilanka has Lasith Malinga, South Africa has Dale Steyn, Westindies has Jerome Taylor and Fiedel Edwards. In this game James Anderson, Sidebottom and Chris Broad were able to bowl fast bouncers with good speed to which our batsmen had no answers. Forget about bowling 90mph, I wouldn't have blamed R.P Singh (highest wicket taker in IPL), Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma if they were able to atleast deceive the batsman with some slower one and yorkers. Worst of all they were mirroring the westindian fast bowlers by bowling short pitched deliveries. With their pace (roughly 80 mph) it was bread and butter for the batsmen. Why these guys were trying to emulate somebody else? these guys should be knowing what their skillset it and should have practised accordingly.

Batting woes continue in alien condition
Geoffrey Boycott would always say India is a strong Team on paper. Very true in deed, before the tournament started we were one among the favourites to win the tournament. The reason for this prediction was the super strong batting order we assume that we possess. We had Virendra Sewag, Gautam ghambir, Suresh raina, M.S. Dhoni, Yuvraj singh and Rohit sharma ominous batting line up, yea on paper. The Good news is Gautam Gambir, Yuvraj singh and Yousuf pathan were able to continue their form and score runs at a decent rate. And others were not upto international standards. Raina and Rohit were hitting bowlers all over the park in IPL here they were not able to defend the short pitched delivery properly.

Captain Mr. Useless
Football goal keeper turned cricketer M.S. Dhoni got it all wrong from the start of the tournament. The issue about virender sewagh should have been handled much better, in my opinion Anil Kumble handled things much better in Australia when there was a racism row. One could ask me where have you been all these years when the team was winning Mr. Critic? But, the reality is, his batting and keeping is below par. He does not posses the technique to be a proper batsman and his keeping is a little circumspect. One of the best wicket keeper Mr. Syed Kirmani commented about his keeping during the early days of MSD's career. He was dubbed as the most destroying batsman in contemporary cricket, we could hardly see any evidence of it for the past couple of years. The ODI series wins in Australia, srilanka and series win in New Zealand were because of individual brillances of Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambir, Virendra Sewag and not because of his brilliant captaincy as some would say. So, what is his contribution to the team. Its time to regroup and reassess the strategy for the champions trophy, otherwise we could write off that trohpy as well.

Is IPL grooming domestic players
With the exception of Yousuf pathan, it has produced nothing else. It was suppose to be a tournament to groom young cricketers, but it turned out to be a marketing event to get profits. The IPL was argued to be an event which would expose weakness of foreign players, it turned the otherway around. The foreign players were getting hefty pay check and invaluable knowledge about Indian criketers weakness. The multi million dollar cricketing extravaganza to expose our weakness. This money is better spent on developing cricketers to handle different playing conditions.

The BCCI has to take certain bold decisions to produce a better team for the future. It should concentrate on developing budding cricketers and correcting technical faults on established players rather than concentrating on profit making events.

US-Pakistan relationship and its effects on India

2009-06-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

War on Terror (WOT) as it is called by the Americans is waged against islamist terrorists who supported 9/11 World Trade Center attack. This War on Terror (WOT)has entered a new phase now. It(WOT)started as a retaliation for the successful terrorist attacks on America, until the attacks happened everyone believed America was inevitable. No one could ever think of an terrorist attack on American soil, and it was considered the safest place to live in the planet. The belief was probably true to some extent. Because the United states has got the technology, Money power and military power to remain as the sole super power after the fall of Soviet Union. This belief was shattered on 11Th September 2001. India and Srilanka were the few countries in the region to supported War on Terror in an hope that terrorist menace in this region (South Asia) would be uprooted. The then U.S president Mr. G.W. Bush gave a famous speech claiming "terrorists would be pursued and eliminated where ever in the world they are...". Intelligence establishment in Indian and srilanka mistook this speech and believed that islamist terrorist from pakistan and LTTE would be eliminated too. Everyone in India at that time believed that the United States has now realised the threat posed by the islamist terrorist. But, it required a terrorist attack of this magnitude for the United States to act swiftly on those terrorist.

Several years has passed since the WOT began, still no end in sight. They neither was able to capture Osama bin laden or Mulla Omar. The stale mate in this WOT has been claimed as a victory by Islamist terrorists. The American were not able to achieve their own goals of WOT let alone destroying the terrorist infrastructure that operate against India. What did we gain by supporting the War on Terror, NOTHING. The Americans had us as a secondary option, if Pakistan stopped supporting war on terror(WOT), the American can supply troops and ammunition from Srinagar Air base. Whenever ever United States indulges in a war there will be some evil intentions behind it. Why did they invade Iraq? is it for stopping Sadam Hussein from acquiring nuclear weapons and let the world live in peace. The answer is a big no. Why would they spend billions of dollars for world peace. If they had the real intention of world peace they would have spent the same amount in North African war torn countries like Somalia. They went for Oil as has been discussed by many new papers. The petroleum prizes which topped $150 dollars per barrel last year, suddenly plummeted to $60 dollars. Is it because of Americans greatly reduced the consumption of petroleum. Its because they get free Oil from Iraq.

Its very evident now that the Americans would not help us in destroying the terrorist infrastructure. Instead they wanted us to resolve the Kashmir issue, as if we resolve the Kashmir issue all the terrorists would turn divine and would not indulge in terrorist activities in India. The Pakistanis wanted to revenge India for their defeat of 71' Indo-Pakistan war. After the 71' war and simla agreement they started supporting the kalistan movement, since it has been quelled by Indian Army. They started supporting the kashmiri insurgents. The ISI is also supporting the Insurgent groups operating from india's North East. So, resolving kashmir would not solve our problems. Pakistan would continue to trouble us one way or other. What are our options to suppress the terrorist emanating from pakistan. We do not have any options right now. That is the reality. We have to wait till US-Pakistan relationship to Break.

If we look at the past record of US-Pakistan relations, it has been on and off at times. They do not have a steady relationship. The Americans supported the pakistanis during the 65 and 71 wars by supplying weapons and abandoned them. A repeat of this happened during the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. The Pakistanis do not trust the Americans yet they support them because of money and weapons. The pakistanis believe that they are intelligent that they are milking the americans under the disguise of front line ally in War on terror. The Americans on the other hand are spending $1 billion a day in Iraq and $1 billion a week in Afghanistan for it War efforts. Still its not making any considerable progress in Afghanistan. Because the security establishment in pakistan support the Taliban, it is considered as a second line of defence in case of a war with India.

Americans are under tremendous pressure from critics inside the country to end the war in Afghanistan, its costing them real big money. In my opinion, the CIA during the last days of previous administration charted out a plan to wind up this war as soon as possible. The Americans realised that the pakistanis are not helping them. There are couple of main concerns for the Americans they are
(1) The pakistanis allow the American supplies to pass through their land and simultaneously tipping the Taliban about the passages of supplies. This resulted in loss of material.
(2) The pakistanis are not acting on the taliban in their border regions nor allowing the Americans to launch ground operations. The taliban would launch a quick offensive across the border in Afghanistan against the american troops inflicting heavy damage and come back to their safe heavens in pakistan. This resulted in serious attrition in American Army.

The plan of CIA is to make pakistan fight the taliban that would mean reduced attrition in American army and less cost. People would have wondered why the americans on one hand criticise pakistan about the safety of the Nuclear weapons and on the other hand are giving $1.5 billion a year as aid. This is exactly their brilliant plan. They made hue and cry about the nuclear weapons falling in the hands of terrorist. This situation compelled the pakistanis to act on Taliban on their side of the border, otherwise the U.S may be under United Nations sanctions would take away all their nuclear weapons. Loosing Nuclear weapons would be catastrophic for pakistan. So, the pakistanis are fighting their secondary line of defence the Taliban. The Americans are happily micro managing the operations against the Taliban. And the Aid ($1.5 billion) they are giving pakistan is nothing compared to what they are spending in Afghanistan, they are spending roughly the same amount for a week there. More over the pakistanis are spending this aid money by buying new conventional weapons and spares for the existing weapons from Americans, so they are getting back their money.

We have to wait and watch till the pakistani army operation against the Taliban is over. I have no doubt in my mind that once the Taliban is neutralised, the Americans would leave Afghanistan. It would be interesting to see how our response would be for any pakistani misadventure after americans leave this region. After the mumbai massacre we stopped short of surgical air strikes because of the american presence there in the region. Already we have a excellent relationship with Afghanistan, a stable afghanistan is in the best interest of India. We would be having the same amount of strategic depth which pakistan enjoyed during the taliban rule in afghanistan.

Nathuram Godse the killer of Gandhi - is he the real villan

2009-06-08T06:41:00.000-07:00

Thanks to SatbirSinghBedi for bringing this out. This is the first time iam reading godse's final address, though i have read a lot of documents related to indian independence and did some research (i mean googling) on pre and post independence.

Godse's Final Address:
Gandhiji Assassin Nathuram Godse's Final Address to the
Court (By G.T. Verghese)

Nathuram Godse was arrested immediately after he assassinated
Gandhiji, based on a F.I.R. filed by Nandlal Mehta at the Tughlak road
Police staton at Delhi.The trial, which was held in camera began on
27th May 1948 and concluded on 10th February 1949. He was sentenced to
death.An appeal to the Punjab High Court, then in session at Simla,
did not find favour and the sentence was upheld.

The statement that you are about to read is the last made by Godse
before the Court on the 5th of May 1949.Such was the power and
eloquence of this statement that one of the judges, G.D.Khosla, later
wrote, " I have, however, no doudt that had the audience of that day
been constituted into a jury and entrusted with the task of deciding
Godse's appeal, they would have brought a verdict of "not Guilty" by
an overwhelming majority"

WHY I KILLED GANDHI

Born in a devotional Brahmin family, I
instinctively came to revere
Hindu religion, Hindu history and Hindu culture. I had, therefore,
been intensely proud of Hinduism as a whole. As I grew up I developed
a tendency to free thinking unfettered by any superstitious allegiance
to any isms, political or religious. That is why I worked actively for
the eradication of untouchability and the caste system based on birth
alone. I openly joined anti-caste movements and maintained that all
Hindus were of equal status as to rights, social and religious and
should be considered high or low on merit alone and not through the
accident of birth in a particular caste or profession. I used publicly
to take part in organized anti-caste dinners in which thousands of
Hindus, Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, Chamars and Bhangis
participated. We broke the caste rules and dined in the company of
each other.
I have read the speeches and writings of Dadabhai Naoroji,
Vivekanand,
Gokhale, Tilak, along with the books of ancient and modern history of
India and some prominent countries like England, France, America and
Russia. Moreover I studied the tenets of Socialism and Marxism. But
above all I studied very closely whatever Veer Savarkar and Gandhiji
had written and spoken, as to my mind these two ideologies have
contributed more to the moulding of the thought and action of the
Indian people during the last thirty years or so, than any other
single factor has done.

All this reading and thinking led me to believe it was my first duty
to serve Hindudom and Hindus both as a patriot and as a world citizen.
To secure the freedom and to safeguard the just interests of some
thirty
crores (300 million) of Hindus would automatically constitute the
freedom and the well-being of all India, one fifth of human race. This
conviction led me naturally to devote myself to the Hindu
Sanghtanist
ideology and programme, which alone, I came to believe, could win and
preserve the national independence of Hindustan, my Motherland, and
enable her to render true service to humanity as well.

Since the year 1920, that is, after the demise of Lokamanya Tilak,
Gandhiji's influence in the Congress first increased and then became
supreme. His activities for public awakening were phenomenal in their
intensity and were reinforced by the slogan of truth and non-violence
which he paraded
ostentatiously before the country. No sensible or
enlightened person could object to those slogans. In fact there is
nothing new or original in them. They are implicit in every
constitutional public movement. But it is nothing but a mere dream if
you imagine that the bulk of mankind is, or can ever become, capable
of scrupulous adherence to these lofty principles in its normal life
from day to day.

In
fact, hunour, duty and love of one's own kith and kin and country
might often compel us to disregard non-violence and to use force. I
could never conceive that an armed resistance to an aggression is
unjust. I would consider it a religious and moral duty to resist and,
if possible, to overpower such an enemy by use of force. [In the
Ramayana] Rama killed Ravana in a tumultuous fight and relieved Sita..
[In the Mahabharata] , Krishna killed Kansa to end his wickedness; and
Arjuna had to fight and slay quite a number of his friends and
relations including the
revered Bhishma because the latter was on the side of the aggressor.
It is my firm belief that in dubbing Rama, Krishna and Arjuna as
guilty of violence, the Mahatma betrayed a total ignorance of the
springs of
human action.
In more recent history, it was the heroic fight put up by Chhatrapati
Shivaji that first checked and eventually destroyed the
Muslim tyranny
in India. It was absolutely essentially for Shivaji to overpower and
kill an aggressive Afzal Khan, failing which he would have lost his
own life. In condemning history's towering warriors like Shivaji, Rana
Pratap and
Guru Gobind Singh as misguided patriots, Gandhiji has merely exposed
his self-conceit. He was, paradoxical as it may appear, a violent
pacifist who brought untold calamities on the country in the name of
truth and non-violence, while Rana Pratap, Shivaji and the Guru will
remain enshrined in the hearts of their countrymen for ever for the
freedom they brought to them.

The accumulating provocation of thirty-two years, culminating in his
last pro-Muslim fast, at last goaded me to the conclusion that the
existence of Gandhi should be brought to an end immediately. Gandhi
had done very good in South Africa to uphold the rights and well-being
of the Indian community there. But
when he finally returned to India
he developed a
subjective mentality under which he alone was to be the final judge of
what was right or wrong. If the country wanted his leadership, it had
to accept his infallibility; if it did not, he would stand aloof from
the
Congress and carry on his own way. Against such an attitude there can
be no halfway house. Either Congress had to surrender its will to his
and had
to be content with playing second fiddle to all his eccentricity,
whimsicality, metaphysics and primitive vision, or it had to carry on
without him. He alone was the Judge of everyone and every thing; he
was
the master brain guiding the civil disobedience movement; no other
could know the technique of that movement. He alone knew when to begin
and when to withdraw it. The movement might succeed or fail, it might
bring untold disaster and political reverses but that could make
no
difference to the Mahatma's infallibility. 'A Satyagrahi can never
fail' was his formula for declaring his own infallibility and nobody
except himself knew what a Satyagrahi is. Thus, the Mahatma became the
judge and jury in his own cause. These childish insanities and
obstinacies, coupled with a most severe austerity of life, ceaseless
work and lofty character made Gandhi formidable and
irresistible. Many people thought that his politics were irrational
but they had either to withdraw from the Congress or place their
intelligence at his feet to do with as he liked. In a position of such
absolute irresponsibility Gandhi was guilty of blunder after blunder,
failure after failure, disaster after disaster.
Gandhi's pro-Muslim policy is blatantly in his perverse attitude on
the question of the national language of India. It is quite obvious
that Hindi has the most prior claim to be accepted as the
premier
language. In the beginning of his career in India, Gandhi gave a great
impetus to Hindi but as he found that the Muslims did not like it, he
became a champion of what is called Hindustani. Everybody in India
knows that there is no language called Hindustani; it has no grammar;
it has no vocabulary. It is a mere dialect, it is spoken, but not
written.
It is a bastard tongue and cross-breed between Hindi and Urdu, and not
even the Mahatma's sophistry could make it popular. But in his desire
to please the Muslims he insisted that Hindustani alone should be
the national language of India. His blind followers, of course,
supported him and the so-called hybrid language began to be used.

The charm and purity of the Hindi language was to be prostituted to
please the Muslims. All his experiments were at the expense of the
Hindus. From August 1946 onwards the private armies of the Muslim
League began a
massacre of the Hindus. The then Viceroy, Lord Wavell,
though distressed at what was happening, would not use his powers
under the Government of India Act of 1935 to prevent the rape, murder
and arson. The Hindu blood began to flow from Bengal to Karachi with
some retaliation by the Hindus. The Interim Government formed in
September was sabotaged by its Muslim League members right from its
inception, but the more they became disloyal and treasonable to the
government of which they were a part, the greater was Gandhi's
infatuation for them. Lord Wavell had to resign as he could not bring
about a settlement and he was succeeded by Lord Mountbatten. King Log
was followed by King Stork. The Congress which had boasted of its
nationalism and socialism secretly accepted Pakistan literally at the
point of the bayonet and abjectly surrendered to Jinnah. India was
vivisected and one-third of the Indian territory became
foreign land
to us from August 15, 1947.

Lord Mountbatten came to be described in Congress circles as the
greatest Viceroy and Governor-General this country ever had. The
official date
for handing over power was fixed for June 30, 1948, but Mountbatten
with his ruthless surgery gave us a gift of vivisected India ten
months in advance. This is what Gandhi had achieved after thirty years
of undisputed dictatorship and this is what Congress party calls
'freedom' and 'peaceful transfer of power'. The Hindu-Muslim unity
bubble was finally burst and a theocratic state was established with
the consent of Nehru and his crowd and they have called 'freedom
won by them with sacrifice' - whose sacrifice? When top leaders of
Congress, with the consent of Gandhi, divided and tore the country -
which we consider a deity of worship - my mind was filled with direful
anger.

One of the conditions imposed by Gandhi
for his breaking of the fast
unto death related to the mosques in Delhi occupied by the Hindu
refugees. But when Hindus in Pakistan were subjected to violent
attacks he did not so much as utter a single word to protest and
censure the Pakistan Government or the Muslims concerned. Gandhi was
shrewd enough to know that while undertaking a fast unto death, had he
imposed for its break some condition on the Muslims in Pakistan, there
would have been found hardly any Muslims who could have shown some
grief if the fast had ended in his death. It was for this reason that
he purposely avoided imposing any condition on the Muslims. He was
fully aware of from the experience that Jinnah was not at all
perturbed or influenced
by his fast and the Muslim League hardly attached any value to the
inner voice of Gandhi. Gandhi is being referred to as the Father of
the Nation. But if that is so, he had failed his paternal
duty
inasmuch as he has acted very treacherously to the nation by his
consenting to the partitioning of it. I stoutly maintain that Gandhi
has failed in his duty. He has proved to be the Father of Pakistan.
His inner-voice, his spiritual power and his doctrine of non-violence
of which so much is made of, all crumbled before Jinnah's iron will
and proved to be powerless. Briefly speaking, I thought to myself and
foresaw I shall be totally
ruined, and the only thing I could expect from the people would be
nothing but hatred and that I shall have lost all my honour, even more
valuable than my life, if I were to kill Gandhiji. But at the same
time
I felt that the Indian politics in the absence of Gandhiji would
surely be proved practical, able to retaliate, and would be powerful
with armed forces. No doubt, my own future would be totally ruined,
but the nation would be saved from the inroads of Pakistan.
People may
even call me and dub me as devoid of any sense or foolish, but the
nation would be free to follow the course founded on the reason which
I consider to be necessary for sound nation-building. After having
fully considered the question, I took the final decision in the
matter, but I did not speak about it to anyone whatsoever. I took
courage in both my hands and I did fire the shots at Gandhiji on 30th
January 1948, on the prayer-grounds of Birla House.
I do say that my shots were fired at the person whose policy and
action had brought rack and ruin and destruction to millions of
Hindus. There was no legal machinery by which such an offender could
be brought to book and for this reason I fired those fatal shots. I
bear no ill will towards anyone individually but I do say that I had
no respect for the present government owing to their policy which was
unfairly favourable towards the Muslims. But at the
same time I could
clearly see that the policy was entirely due to the presence of
Gandhi.

I have to say with great regret that Prime Minister Nehru quite
forgets that his preachings and deeds are at times at variances with
each other when he talks about India as a secular state in season and
out of
season, because it is significant to note that Nehru has played a
leading role in the establishment of the theocratic state of Pakistan,
and his job was made easier by Gandhi's persistent policy of
appeasement towards the Muslims. I now stand before the court to
accept the full share of my responsibility for what I have done and
the judge would, of course, pass against me such orders of sentence as
may be considered proper. But I would like to add that I do not desire
any mercy to be shown to me, nor do I wish that anyone else should beg
for mercy on my behalf. My confidence about the moral side of
my
action has not been shaken even by the criticism
levelled against it on all sides. I have no doubt that honest writers
of history will weigh my act and find the true value thereof some day
in future.

I am circulating this as Members should be aware of both sides of the version regarding the killing of Gandhiji. I may add that our Present PM, Dr. Manmohan Singh is also following in the footsteps of Gandhiji by his appeasement of the Muslims.

MY Comments:
I believe the leaders at that time would have thought appeasing muslims would enable integration of pakistan into india again. if not for jinnah and few other elite muslim leaders, muslims would not have bothered to get a separate land. Power hungry jinnah who was with congress till the first decade of the 20th century was obsessed with the way people followed some leaders like (Ghandhi, nehru, etc). The only way he could get attention was religion. He wisely manipulated everyone to get his agenda (to be revered like Gandhi) done with some muslim leader. He is Quaid-e-Azam for pakistan.

Quite frankly nobody would have noticed jinnah's evil intentions after the partition. But, if you introspect why would they want a separate state? people from different religion co-existed for centuries in undivided india. Even after partition he made sure nobody know his ill intentions by making pakistan a anti-india state. People in pakistan think they are Arabs, but they are not. Genetically they are more affiliated to Indian genes than the Arab ones. No offence to my fellow muslim bloggers, some people here in India to have the Arab obsession. This is exactly want led to bifurcation of United India.

Appeasement of muslims were in my opinion the last ditch attempt by the congress leaders to make the sub-continent as a single country. Godse instead of killing Ghandhi, should have killed jinnah and some leaders associated with him during the early part of 20th century. We would have had a united Inida.

China threatens Dalai lamas visit to western countries

2009-05-07T13:31:00.000-07:00

Below mentioned are my comments for the leading new article in netherlands about the Dalai lamas visit to netherland. The chinese are protesting dalais visit to netherlands.

This is the double standards that everyone wanted to forget in the third world countries, but in vain. The western countries preaching democracy to everybody else fails to do the same for china. Because it is a powerfull country with nuclear weapons and a permanent member of the security council. Nobody dares to speak anything about china. how would you expect the third world countries to have confidence in democracy when a permanent member of the security council itself is not a democracy. And it certainly meddle with the government of the neighbouring countries and beyond according to its wishes. It wanted the western countries to behave according to its wishes. At this point i would only hope that a western country would raise its voice against chinese brutalities in Tibet and Tiwan.

Sikhs in pakistan asked to pay tax

2009-05-02T00:33:00.000-07:00

One of my fellow blogger in one of the forum was upset because pakistani sikhs were asked to pay tax for staying in the country. Below mentioned link has the content of the letter he has sent to the country leadership (both political and government). And my comments for his letter.

http://cplash.com/post/Jiziya-on-Sikhs-in-Pakistan-Indian-Muslims-may-also-be-asked-to-pay-protection-money919.html

I agree with ankit. Most of the indian muslims are law abiding indian citizens, except for a few dumb guys who support terrorism. And those few dumb guys are in every religion.

All should unite and request the indian government to bring back all hindus, sikhs remain in pakistan and resettle them in western india (because the western india would imitate environment close to their home).

Still feel justice is not done, pakistan should be punished for not protecting its citizen. Don't worry about it too much. Its demise is very near.

Terrorism: Patience pays off for India

2009-04-30T02:03:00.000-07:00

Patience pays off as the saying goes; it nearly did in case of India with regards to terrorism. There were many new paper articles and blogs which criticized the Indian government attitude towards tackling terrorism (that includes me as well). Now, what do we mean by tackling terrorism? We know where the terrorism is emanating from. There are no contests for right guess, even a school going kid will know that it is from Pakistan. So, tackling terrorism implies tackling Pakistan. Waging a war against Pakistan was the only option left with us, because all other diplomatic options failed. The western countries had a pragmatic view about dealing with terrorism. They did not want to get involved in a problem that occurs half way around the globe and were convinced that terrorism did not pose a direct threat to their national security. Whenever we raise the terrorism issue with the western power they will ward of this question by saying it was a problem created by you because of Kashmir. Even recently David milliband from United Kingdom was trumpeting that issue when he visited India (as if he is an expert on south Asian affairs). Now they are the ones getting affected more than India.

It all started in 1989, when India was in an economic turmoil, Pakistan had huge influx of foreign funds (especially American) for their covert war against USSR in Afghanistan. This is when Pakistan made a couple of right moves and a big blunder in their history. They got couple of nuclear weapons and missiles from China, citing India as their enemy No.1. The Pakistani army was in buying spree (they bought F16s from the United States). At that time we had old soviet fighter planes. Even though we had numerical advantage, we wouldn’t have scored an out right victory in an event of war with Pakistan. This emboldened the Pakistanis. They wanted to use this strategic shift in balance of power. After the withdrawal of soviet troops from Afghanistan, they wanted the terrorist to concentrate on the eastern border (i.e. India). Apart from the Taliban and Al-Qaeda, they also raised several other terrorist organizations to destabilize India. This according to me is the biggest blunder they did till date. Because terrorist (freedom fighters according to Pakistan) are former thieves and criminals, they would do anything they want if they have weapons in hand. They are involved in organized killings and rioting for political gains and money. The devil it created couple of decades back is haunting it now.

Conclusion: We are fortunate to be what we are today. Had India attacked Pakistan after any of the misadventure (like kargil, parliament attack, Suicide bombings and terrorist attacks) it did to destabilize us, we would have faced the repercussions till date. Because war is a very expensive option and it will put additional burden on our economy. Our leadership either willingly or unwillingly exercised restraint that proved to be a wise decision. The western powers are getting hit by terrorist emanating from Pakistan, and are fighting what would have been our War on Terror (WOT). The west which acted as a mute spectator for terrorist events happening inside India during the early 90s is fighting from either side of borders in Pakistan and Afghanistan and pumping in millions of dollars to fight the war. It is crippling its economy, but there is no exit strategy in sight. Had the west to heed to the words of India much earlier there wouldn’t have been any 9/11s or 7/7 happened in their respective countries. And the main culprit Pakistan is being consumed by the menace it created. There are begging every country they know for Loan to recovery their economy and save their country from humiliation. In contrast India is better equipped to handle the recession. In my opinion patience has paid off. Would be interested to understand your views on this topic

Drone Attacks Are Violation Of Pakistan’s Sovereignty

2009-03-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

Mentioned below are the comments that i added in a pakistani forum. I posted this couple of months back and said drone attacks are a violation of pakistan's sovereignty. At that time they called me a Indian spy. Now their foreign office has accepted that.

Comments posted by me in their forum

Pakistani foreign office admission.

My comments
Couple of months ago i stated that drone attacks are a breach of sovereighnty by the united states. Our forum users commented that i was a RAW agent (though i would like to be one). Now the foreign office of pakistan administration has admitted that its a breach of sovereignty.

Our fellow forum users speculated that there was a secret deal with the united states to use drones to kill terrorists inside pakistan. I fail to understand why the united states of america is doing this in your country when you guys have a professional security apparatus (i.e army, para military forces, police). It should be the business of your security personal. If at all there are terrorists hiding in your country, the US should provide actional intelligence and it is the job of your people to elimitate those guys. Here in india we (The public) have powers to find out the truth through our consitutional law (like the Right to information ACT, Public interest litigation). Don't you guys have such law in your country.

Guys one last thing i wanted to say is couple of weeks back you guys staged a demonstration and brought back your chief justice to his office when General Musharaf sacked him from his position couple of years back. Americans and britan did not have much choice but to obey your needs (inspite of their reluctance to reinstate the chief justice), they worked over time to find a amicable solution to your demands. Such is the power of people in any country. We (indians and pakistanis) believe the political leaders holding high positions in the government are the powerfull people, but we fail to acknowledge the fact that we the people who make them sit in such high position. Stage another demonstration and make the americans halt this drone attacks.

The American president called some groups and people associated with it as cancer and would do anything to rout out that cancer. Under this prejudice they wanted to attack baluchistan. Few months down the lane they will use drone attacks in most of pakistan. It is better to act sooner than later.

Attack on Sri Lankan cricket team in Pakistan

2009-03-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

I desperately wanted to comment on the recent new article which states that there are other sources which may be reason for the attack. Mentioned below are my assessment of the incident.

http://cplash.com/post/Attack-on-Sri-Lankan-cricket-team-in-Pakistan367.html

There are couple of points that i wanted to mention here. Its practically impossible for LTTE to carry out such a massive attack against a country which is several thousand kilometers apart with out the help of indian intelligence agencies. If the above statement is true, iam sorry to say but I would be more than happy that RAW was able to coordinate such a precision strike. It would have taught Pakistan a lesson on what could be the implications of a terrorist strike. It would have taught a lesson for srilanka also for joining hands with pakistan and china to carry out anti-india activities.

The second and the more important point is under the assumption that Taliban was able to execute this massacre with out anybodys help the world community could take notice that pakistan is a failed state. It is nothing else but a state half filled with terrorist. I have read in a new article that the British foreign secretary David milliband wanted India to give up kashmir so that the terrorist in pakistan will not have any reason to take arms and tread the path of terrorism. Irrespective of the status of the kashmir issue the pakistanis will have terrorism as a instrument to counter India, because they know that they cannot win a conventional war against india (as indicated by their chief of Army Gen. Ashfuck kayani). This will let everybody know that Kashmir is not the main issue for those bandits to take up arms.

Aftermath of mumbai massacre

2009-01-22T12:11:00.001-08:00

Couple of months went past since the mumbai massacre, we exercised restraint as advised by our so called allies (i.e U.S & U.K). These countries issued condemnation statements and promised full co-operation in brining the perpretators of these attacks to face justice. The families of those who lost their loved one believed these statement, so did the indian government. But, according to me nothing happened since that horrible incident occured. People may have different perspective, Pakistan may say they have arrested many people regarding this incident (without any charge) and started their own probe. The indian government can say they got the Jamaat-ud-daawa the front organisation of the lashkar - i - toiba banned by United nations (A big diplomatic victory according to Indian politicians). Does it serve any purpose? The media hype has died down and now its business as usual for those pakistani terrorists. They may have already started to plan their next operation against india.Politicians in india may be busy preparing for the assembly elections. People like us wait for justice to happen, it may very well be a endless wait. And we should continue to fear for our lives because the frequency of attack from across the border has increased in the past decade (i.e kargil, parliment attack, Bombing in major cities, etc).

Now, the indian government has failed miserably and elusive pakistan walked away without any punishment. Ordinary citizens like us know that this will be the logical conclusion after a terrorist attack, because this has been happening for quite sometime now. Did we forget something? Yes, the promise made by our so called allies (U.S & U.K). Well, they issued statements just to make sure that the world don't recognise their double standards in dealing with terrorism. Had it been an attack on U.S, U.K things would have been much different. NATO forces by now would have demolished pakistan. Even Russia, China or Israel would have retaliated. The world leaders are praising the U.S & U.K for sending their emissaries to intervene and stop what would have been a nuclear holocaust. But, these emisaries were singing the tune of pakistanis instead of helping us. What made them to collude with pakistanis? They came here to use this opportunity to blackmail pakistan and to satisfy their objectives which is to kill senior Al-Qaida leaders. In the past pakistan did not do this without any incentive (like billions of dollar aid). If we dig recent pakistani news paper we would very well know that senior Al-Quaida leaders have been killed, including the perpretators of london bombing. So, the emisaries did not do anything to help us. Worst of all the foreign secretary of U.K's visit was a disaster.

Citizens like us say the government has to do something and the government is nothing but the political party that we vote for power. I have one request for all the fellow citizens in the up coming assembly election vote for the party which has Aggressive National Security policies. Aggressive National Security policies in the sense the one who speaks about aggressive posturing by armed forces not like sanctions, trade embargo & No Fly zone. I read in a recent new article that our Army was not prepared for a War, but our Navy & Airforce was well prepared. Who is accountable for these kind of lapses? Get all National security related agencies under one roof, because the Intelligence agencies will say they have warned about the possible attack as happened in the recent mumbai attack. Still the cost guard, navy and state police were less vigilant. If there is a credible intelligence about a possible attack emanating from the neighbouring country activate all forward airbases and be prepared for a air strikes. This will thwart the other side from continuing its ambitious plans. These actions will seem a little arrogant, but is we look at the history this is exactly what happened during the cold war between United states and U.S.S.R. And it thwarted the otherside from doing any adventurism.

Has Pakistan become the new Afghanistan?

2008-12-28T03:53:00.000-08:00

It is in deed is fast becoming the new afghanistan. Some parts of the country is administered by Taliban and not the federal government. They are burning down girls schools. They are collecting taxes from common people and strict sharia law has been enforced. Government forces can dare to go to these places. They are taking the country back to stone age. In a way Pakistani taliban is helping us (Indians). If we had retaliated to the mumbai massacre by ariel strikes deep inside pakistan, it would have cripled our economy. Now all we have to do is to wait and watch Taliban take over the whole of pakistan or clandestinely help Taliban take over pakistan. Although we have to face the repercussions of taliban take over of pakistan. The only thing that we have to be concerned about is the nuclear weapons falling into the hands of taliban. That is too dangerous. Before they can get their hands to the neuclear weapons we have to remove it from pakistan with the help of United States.

Need a strategic move my our prime minister

2008-11-30T08:16:00.000-08:00

I on behalf of the cplash blogger would like to send the deepest condolence to all those families who have suffered loss of lives in the mumbai terror attacks. The recent news about the cabinet reshuffle and asking the state chief minister and secretary level staff of the union government to resign dosn't serve any purpose according to my opinion. If there is anything that those people could have done is to be more vigilant because the our intelligence sleuths as usual have warned about the terrorist attacks. Is it really their mistake, In my opinion "NO". Because the Intelligence agenices is warning the state police department on a daily basis regarding terrorist attacks to pass the blame on some body else. But, if we introspect a little deeper we could understand these people are pawn of a much larger game. The external affairs minister has given a press conference that the conspiracy has been hatched outsite of India (in a thinly veiled reference to pakistan)

Now, let us discuss what we could do to counter the culprits. As a ordinary citizen of india, iam of a firm opinion that the perputators of these attacks are from tribal mountains of pakistan (with or without the knowledge of govt of pakistan). So, Pakistani government should take moral responsibility and should have taken measures to curtail the activities of the militant organisation. Instead they are trying to prove the world that they are innocent. This is a message to india to take appropriate counter measures on our own rather than appeasing the western countries to take action.

There are lot of thing our prime minister can do to prevent future attacks. The most significant of all would be the arial bombing of the terrorist training camps in POK (Pakistan occupied kashmir). But, this bold decision would require a lot of courage to get implemented (like the late priminister Shri. Indra Gandhi or Shri A.B. Vajpayee). Our politicians are becoming the "Yes Master slaves" of the western countries, they wouldn't move a muscle without any approval of the western powers. The western world's main fear is the southern asia becoming a nuclear flashpoint, the territorial conflict would not remain territorial and would ultimately become a full fledged war. But, if we all remember what happened on 1999 "The Kargil War". This war happened barely one year after the nuclear bomb detonation by both india and pakistan. So, if the pakistani strategist can take such a bold decision to plan and execute a war on India and still manage to keep it territoral why not us.

I could understand the doubt in everybody's mind. is there any other option to check mate the Opposition (in this case pakistan) other than war, because the pessimist would think that war is a too costly an option and it would dent our fledging economy. Fortunately, we do have an option. I would highly appreciate if our prime minister mobilise our troops to the borders as we did way back in 2001 after the parliment attack. Why is this such an important move and strategic action. The troop mobilisation is such an expensive action and we can afford to do it, but pakistan can't. There economy don't allow they to stay put the troop in their borders for an extended period of time. Now, does everyone agree that this is a strategic move

INDIAN HYPOCRISY and sri lanka

2008-11-18T10:39:00.000-08:00

I totally disagree with the article posted on the below mentioned website. Mentioned below are the comments for the article. I would like to have healthy debate on this article.

http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=32358

There are a couple of points that i would like to discuss. The first item of discussion is "if it is a internal security problem of srilanka and Sinhalese have a lot of love and care for tamilians(as portraited in this article)Why are the tamil refugees entering India rather than the Sinhalese area of srilanka". The second and most important point is "Most of the nations all over the world give equal rights to their citizens. E.g in India and U.S any citizen of their country can become a president. Is it possible in Srilanka?". The conclusion is if you deprive them of equal rights they will naturally revolt. The right way of resolving this issue is diplomatic talks rather than bloodshed.

Do you need motivation?

2008-11-12T23:03:00.000-08:00

Do you need motivation then read the brief biography of a great leader. That in itself will inspire you achieve miracles with persistence and hard work.

“At the age of seven, a young boy and his family were forced out of their home. The boy had to work to support his family. At the age of nine, his mother passed away. When he grew up, the young man was keen to go to law school, but had no education.

At 22, he lost his job as a store clerk. At 23, he ran for state legislature and lost. The same year, he went into business. It failed, leaving him with a debt that took him 17 years to repay. At 27, he had a nervous breakdown.

Two years later, he tried for the post of speaker in his state legislature. He lost. At 31, he was defeated in his attempt to become an elector. By 35, he had been defeated twice while running for Congress. Finally, he did manage to secure a brief term in Congress, but at 39 he lost his re-election bid.

At 41, his four-year-old son died. At 42, he was rejected as a prospective land officer. At 45, he ran for the Senate and lost. Two years later, he lost the vice presidential nomination. At 49, he ran for Senate and lost again.

At 51, he was elected the President of the United States of America.

The man in question: Abraham Lincoln.”

Muslim panel defers plan to float political party

2008-11-11T23:57:00.000-08:00

http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/muslim-panel-defers-plan-to-float-political-party/384593/

Whenever there is a bomb blast, muslims are being targeted. People from all community should take part in an agitation to immediately stop this. But, take a look at what Jamaat-e-Islami is advocating which has been included in this article "Jamaat-e-Islami, a Muslim religious organisation, advocating theocracy and making India an Islamic state". Is India not a secular country with enough space for all religion. Why do they want to make india a islamic state, when there are million other issues that need immediate attention. This kind of retoric by one group (Jamaat-e-Islami) get a reaction from opposite group (bajrangdal & shivsena). I would truely appreciate if their(Jamaat-e-Islami) motive is to make muslims rise out of poverty, provide education (to produce more scientists like Dr.A.P.J. Abdul kalam).I would say don't support both groups, without people they will not have power and would vanish. And India would be a secular and prosperous country.

IAF pilots acrobatics using Su MKI

2008-11-04T04:20:00.000-08:00

I was truely astonished by the way our IAF pilots manouver these gigantic fighter planes. I would like to have your thoughts and comments about this topic

Indian Air Force- Su MKI 30 - Heavy Combat Aircraft - Part 1

Indian Air Force- Su MKI 30 - Heavy Combat Aircraft - Part 2

Tamils, Sinhalese Lambast MK

2008-11-02T04:31:00.000-08:00

Below mentioned are the comments written by me for the srilankan tamil issue news article.

http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Tamils,+Sinhalese+Lambast+MK&artid=47Csc8A4ly4=&SectionID=lifojHIWDUU=&MainSectionID=wIcBMLGbUJI=&SectionName=EL7znOtxBM3qzgMyXZKtxw==&SEO=

Fairly true, I agree to what the author has said. When DMK and PMK were in the opposition they made hue and cry about the Srilankan tamils issue. Now, they are part of the coalition both at the central govt and until some time back they were allies in the state govt too. If we introspect what they did for the tamil cause, nothing substantial comes to my mind. Except for the occasional condemnation of LTTE's Political wing hero Tamilselvan's death. And a poem written by Mr. Karunanithi praising tamil selvan. This makes us to belive what Mr. Vijayakanth has to say about this issue. Its a political drama orchestrated by Mr. Karunanithi and Mr. Ramadoss, just to divert the attention of the people from domestic issues.

Pakistan's Instrument of Surrender to India

2008-10-29T14:03:00.000-07:00

Iam very pleased to produce one of the rare achievements of Indian military. The pakistan's "Instrument of Surrender" text and its photo copy.

The text of the Instrument of Surrender document was as follows:

"INSTRUMENT OF SURRENDER"

The PAKISTAN Eastern Command agree to surrender all PAKISTAN Armed Forces in BANGLA DESH to Lieutenant-General JAGJIT SINGH AURORA, General Officer Commanding in Chief of the Indian and BANGLA DESH forces in the Eastern Theatre. This surrender includes all PAKISTAN land, air and naval forces as also all para-military forces and civil armed forces. These forces will lay down their arms and surrender at the places where they are currently located to the nearest regular troops under the command of Lieutenant- General JAGJIT SINGH AURORA.

The PAKISTAN Eastern Command shall come under the orders of Lieutenant-General JAGJIT SINGH AURORA as soon as this instrument has been signed. Disobedience of orders will be regarded as a breach of the surrender terms and will be dealt with in accordance with the accepted laws and usages of war. The decision of Lieutenant-General JAGJIT SINGH AURORA will be final, should any doubt arise as to the meaning or interpretation of the surrender terms.

Lieutenant- General JAGJIT SINGH AURORA gives a solemn assurance that personnel who surrender will be treated with dignity and respect that soldiers are entitled to in accordance with the provisions of the GENEVA Convention and guarantees the safety and well-being of all PAKISTAN military and para-military forces who surrender. Protection will be provided to foreign nationals, ethnic minorities and personnel of WEST PAKISTAN origin by the forces under the command of Lieutenant- General JAGJIT SINGH AURORA.

Signed:

(JAGJIT SINGH AURORA) Lieutenant-General General Officer Commanding in Chief Indian and BANGLA DESH Forces in the Eastern Theatre

(AMIR ABDULLAH KHAN NIAZI) Lieutenant-General Martial Law Administrator Zone B and Commander Eastern Command (PAKISTAN)

16 December 1971"

The surrender led to the disintegration of East and West Pakistan and the establishment of Bangladesh. After 25 years, the East Pakistanis declared themselves independent and renamed their Province as Bangladesh. Pakistan finally recognized Bangladesh at the Islamic Conference in Lahore on February 22, 1974

AMD co founder Dies

2008-10-25T07:04:00.000-07:00

Below mentioned are the comments posted by me on a recent news article .

http://www.india.com/technology/computers/amd_co_founder_dies_1049

AMD co founder Dies. His achievements and his profile is truely great. This will be a motivation for younger generation. May his soul rest in peace.

Defending India: An ageing naval fleet, obsolete equipment

2008-10-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

Below mentioned are my comments for the recent news artile on the defence prepardness of indian armed forces.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Defending_India_An_ageing_naval_fleet_obsolete_equipment/articleshow/3638790.cms

Pathetic is the apt word to describe the prepardness of our armed forces. Where does the money spent on armed forces go? This is the most concerning issue than even terrorism. If we are not able to spend enough money on armed forces due to our economic situtation, we can understand the reason behind using this obsolete machines. When our economy is vibrant and comparable to that of China, this lapse is unforgiveable. When our political bosses are making statements which makes us to believe that countering pakistan is not an issue anymore. But, it is shocking to believe that we are not even capable of handling a threat from our smaller neighbour. I am hugely disappointed. I would hold the Prime Minister and President (as the chief of Armed forces) accountable for this.

India rejects Pak charge on Chenab river flow

2008-10-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Rejecting Pakistan`s charge that it had blocked Chenab river water flow, India today turned down the neighbouring country`s demand for compensation, asserting that there was no wrong-doing by it.

Below mentioned are the comments posted for the recent news article.

What do they want? Do they want us to release all the water to pakistan. Even if we release all the water to them. They do not know how to produce good crops, they are good at producing terrorists. And after exhausting all they forex reserves now they are good at begging. Let them do what they are good at.

Downturn in chinese economy

2008-10-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

In India, it is fashionable to compare our own economic model with that of chinese one. Deng, the architect of its capitalist economic model, set China on a course to become the world's factory. In a communist dictatorship, without legal and populist challenges to state dictats, steam-rolling the reforms were not difficult to come about.

Faced with rising labor costs, the western countries, reveiwed their economic models to outsource manufacturing their basic stuff to Chian, among emerging economies, including India, Mexico, Brazil and others. China, of course, surged away ahead of the pack, not least helped by the work ethic of a 'castrated' workforce.

But the party shall end. The manufacturing requires energy, raw materials, and basic equipment and its spares. These have to eb hauled over long distances, such as from Brazil, Africa, India, Australia, Europe and US. The products are put on ships bound to these and other consumer countries. Distance will kill China, if not cost and availability of goods and energy. Freight and energy rates that we see today were not the design basis for their economic model. Energy use in China is three times inefficient as US, and eight times inefficient as Britain. Don't be surprised if steel Industry in Europe, US and Brazil is revived sometime in 2010.

There is a lesson for India too. Its wages are fast rising. Its energy use is wasteful beyond comprehension. Market for its manufactured products is not in its backyard. So, don't travel the road the Chinese took. Chinese imitated the Japanese, doing in 1998-2008 what the Japs did in 1978-88. Stay the course on service economy for the world, while manufacturing for domestic consumption with energy efficient factories

Above mentioned is a article i read in an article and below mentioned are my comments

I totally agree with the author. Unlike the service industry, the manufacturing industry is affected by factors which is not totally in china's control and thereby prone to slow down. I wouldn't say that the services industry don't have any pitfall and would sustain its growth. But, the first casuality of an economic slowdown is the manufacturing sector. Like india, china too is heavily dependent on western markets to sustain its economy. So, ultimately it makes sense to predict a gloomy picture for the manufacturing industry (i.e) china's economy

Sachin rewrites history

2008-10-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

Is Sachin the best ever Indian cricketer? Yes, he is indeed a greatest cricketer ever produced by india. What he has achieved so far is commendable with all the scrutiny done by indian media and the expectation of a billion people carrying in his shoulders. Even the greats like Sir Don bradman and Sunil Gavaskar would have fumbled with the aforementioned factors affecting their cricket. Two of the contemporary cricketers who were able to overcome the criticism and perform fairly consistently were Brian Lara the previous world highest and Sachin who holds the record now. But, in my opinion he has not played up to his potential. The above mentiond factors has made sachin to get bogged down a little bit. He has more than one stroke for any ball that he face. He is the inventor of the paddle sweep. We can sit the whole day and write about the tallent Sachin Tendulkar has. But, did he make good use of it? The answer is a big "NO". The so called elites of the past with their small cricketing brain made this innovator to curb his strokes.

Canyon defence

2008-10-16T00:39:00.000-07:00

I like this game very much. But, i did not manage to get the top score. Lets see if online gamers in india crack this game and get high score

Canyon Defense

Build an ideal defense system and save the inhabitants.

Play this free game now!!

Pakistan awaits a bailout

2008-10-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

These are the comments posted by me for the recent news article regarding the pakistani economic crisis.

http://acorn.nationalinterest.in/2008/10/09/pakistan-awaits-a-bailout/

In my opinion the chinese would help them. There are various benefits for the chinese. One of the reasons is the state of pakistan could be used as a counterweight for every indian move and keep india engaged in the regional issues. If you digg little deeper and understand the rational behind this move by the chinese, lot of truth will be uncovered. Some of the political archives of 1950's and 1960's say the indian political elites were able to convince the United Nations and western governments that lot of Tibetians were driven out of their homeland as refuges to India. And Indias support to the Tibetian cause was justified. Most of the countries supported the freedom of Tibet. To break this notion and thwart any attempt by the indians to raise the tibetian issue, the chinese need to create trouble for India. And that was readily available through pakistan. By supporting pakistan, china can make india engulf in the regional issues rather than the ones they are concerned about. Now, most of the tibetians are still refuges and nobody takes note of this forgotten issue. Another important reason for support pakistan is the easily available trade route to Arabian sea. This is the shortest possible route to the Arabian sea for china.

Stable Pakistan not in India’s interest

2008-10-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

Indians pose the biggest threat to the union of India. The reason is simple. An average Indian does not constitute a nation but is merely an individual. His personal well-being overrides all other considerations including the national interests.

Therefore, many have begun to propagate parting of Kashmir in their write-ups, since it does not belong individually to them. However, imagine the hue and cry if their personal property and family is held hostage by the terrorists. They will sing a different tune!

The blame lies with New Delhi. For the past sixty years, instead of consolidating the Union, leaders encouraged divisiveness on the basis of religion and caste for sheer vote bank politics. Instead of unifying its citizenry with good governance and increasing their stakes through prosperity, so that they may serve the cause of the nation with honor, it has treated its citizens with unprecedented shabbiness. The result is groups of citizens have risen against the state, mostly for lack of economic progress and denial of justice. Such disgruntled groups are being taken advantage of by the external forces inimical to India.

There can never be unity in diversity. Unity requires a fair amount of uniformity in laws throughout the Union.

That New Delhi is its own enemy became obvious, when it permitted the creation of a pure Islamic State on its borders. This nation-state contradicts every democratic and multi-cultural values dear to India.

Therefore, if New Delhi has not slept a wink since the creation of Pakistan, it has no one except itself to blame!

Islamabad, besides the wars it imposed on New Delhi, extended its so-called Islamic purity to the Kashmir Valley by instigating the locals to carry out ethnic cleansing of the minority communities.

Hence, first we created a state with inbuilt characteristic of fundamentalism, and extreme philosophy contrary to our professed beliefs; then the monster in it started ethnic cleansing in the Valley; and engineered demographic changes through Bangladesh in West Bengal, Assam and the Northeast. Saudi Arabia and other Islamic oil-rich countries pitched in with the petro-dollars in support. All in the cause of the illusion called Ummah and establishing the Caliphate!

The Indian leadership for its personal vote-bank gains helped these inimical forces by bringing the IMDT in Assam. Later, it was slammed as illegal by the Supreme Court. Too late - the damage was done, as the Union’s overburdened security forces, grapple with 15 million illegal Bangladesh infiltrators creating mayhem in the society.

Islamabad, Dhaka, and now Kathmandu, spurred on by Beijing, have united with the singular agenda to unhook the Valley and the Northeast from the Union. In addition, they are instigating the Maoists who control almost forty percent of the Union’s territory, to set up a parallel government, and ultimately, like the Maoists in Nepal, win the elections in pockets of their influence, and impose a regressive authoritarian governments in tune with their own regime. Simple. Brilliant. And yet, New Delhi, instead of consolidating and unifying the Union, continues to divide its citizenry in religious or caste denominations.

In the past sixty years, New Delhi’s muddle-headed policies encouraged separatism.

Instead of ensuring diffusion of secular pan-Indian culture, and integration of the society by encouraging Indians from all over to buy and develop land and industry in the Valley and the Northeast, it imposed restrictions on such settlements. Meanwhile, Pakistan and Bangladesh exported their fundamentalist populations to change the demographic hues in their interest. The ugly separatist face of the agitation in the Valley today is the consequence of the dereliction of the fundamental duty by the Union.

The trend needs to be reversed forcibly by integrating the Valley firmly into the Indian mainstream by creating a secular mix of population through industrialisation.

Many conveniently propose the myth that a stable Pakistan is in India’s interest. This is a false proposition.

The truth is that Pakistan is bad news for the Indian Union since 1947-stable or otherwise.

It is factually correct that Islamabad has enjoyed brief periods of stability in the span of sixty years of its existence. However, during these phases of stability, it continued to export terrorism, fake currency, narcotics, and indulged in attempts to change demographics on our borders, cultivated sleeper cells and armed groups inside our territory to create an uprising at an appropriate time. Also, it aligned with Beijing and other powers, in a mutually beneficial scheme, to tie-down and ultimately cause a territorial split of the Union.

With Pakistan on the brink of collapse due to massive internal as well as international contradictions, it is matter of time before it ceases to exist.

Multiple benefits will accrue to the Union of India on such demise.

If ever the national interests are defined with clarity and prioritised, the foremost threat to the Union (and for centuries before) materialised on the western periphery, continuously. To defend this key threat to the Union, New Delhi should extend its influence through export of both, soft and hard power towards Central Asia from where invasions have been mounted over centuries. Cessation of Pakistan as a state facilitates furtherance of this pivotal national objective.

The self-destructive path that Islamabad chose will either splinter the state into many parts or it will wither away-a case of natural progression to its logical conclusion. In either case Baluchistan will achieve independence. For New Delhi this opens a window of opportunity to ensure that the Gwadar port does not fall into the hands of the Chinese. In this, there is synergy between the political objectives of the Americans and the Indians. Our existing goodwill in Baluchistan requires intelligent leveraging.

Sindh and most of the non-Punjabi areas of Pakistan will be our new friends.

Pakistan’s breakup will be a major setback to the Jihad Factory, as the core of this is located in Pakistan, and functions with the help of its army and the ISI. This in turn will ease pressures on India and the international community.

With China’s one arm, i.e. Pakistan disabled, its expansionist plans will receive a severe jolt. Beijing continues to pose primary threat to New Delhi. Even as we continue to engage with it as constructively as possible, we must strive to remove the proxy. At the same time, it is prudent to extend moral support to the people of Tibet to sink Chinese expansionism in the morass of insurgency.

For a change, let us do to them what they do to us!

The chances of Central Asia getting infected with the Jihadi fervour will recede. Afghanistan will gain fair amount of stability. India’s access to Central Asian energy routes will open up. With disintegration of ISI’s inimical activities of infiltration and pushing of fake currency into India, from Nepal and Bangladesh will cease. Within the Union social harmony will improve enormously. Export of Islamic fundamentalism, with its 360-degree sweep from Islamabad, will vanish. Even a country like Thailand will heave a sigh of relief!

Above all, the gathering storm of threat from a united group of authoritarian regimes along our 14,000 km borders, orchestrated and synchronised by Pakistan will dissolve.

At the height of the recent disturbances in the Valley, when a general asked me for a suggestion to resolve the issue, I said: “Remove Pakistan. The threat will disappear permanently.” Today the collapse of Pakistan as a state is almost certain. All the King’s men cannot save it from itself.

Looking ahead, New Delhi should formulate an appropriate strategy for ‘post-Pakistan scenario’ to secure India’s interests in Central Asia.

It is intriguing, therefore, to hear New Delhi mouthing the falsehood that stable Pakistan is in India’s interest. Perpetuation of such illogic for vote-bank politics is harming consolidation and integration of the Union. Short-sighted politicians as usual are overlooking the national interest for the short-term personal gains of few votes!

Bharat Verma, Editor Indian Defence Review
http://www.indiandefencereview.com/?p=354

Zardari: Visionary or clown?

2008-10-11T09:17:00.001-07:00

Below mentioned are the comments posted by me for the recent new article on Pakistan president Mr. Asif Ali Zardari.

http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Zardari:+Visionary+or+clown?&artid=KRs7th8KDmE=&SectionID=d16Fdk4iJhE=&MainSectionID=d16Fdk4iJhE=&SectionName=aVlZZy44Xq0bJKAA84nwcg==&SEO=

He is not being truthfull. After his democratic government took office, we have seen a increase in cross broder infiltration and violence in india. He is acting as if he is a visionary, but in reality he is a clown. His statements to the media and subsequent denials by ministers and spokesperson is a proof of it.

The Earth's Ozone Hole from 1979-2007

2008-10-10T12:31:00.000-07:00

Earths ozone layer is depleting day by day. Some may ask "Whats big deal?". But these sarcastic comments will soon evaporate if we understand that we are affected by that. If you think your profession makes you to get exposed to sun more often that not and i didn't not feel the effects of UV radiation. Think again, the effects of the UV radiation exposure are dangerous. It is directly responsible for skin cancer (non-hereditary) & Cataract. There are more effects of Ozone hole, few of them are listed below.

Effects of Ozone hole
Health Effects
Effects on Terrestrial Ecosystems
Effects on Aquatic Ecosystems
Effects on Biogeochemical Cycles
Effects on Air Quality
Materials Damage

So, what is the cause of this ozone layer depletion. There are two reasons for this depletion. The primary one being low temperatures in the lower stratosphere, which favor the formation of polar stratospheric clouds and thereby the activation of ozone-destroying chlorine and the secondary reason is the man made one. The release of toxic chemicals in to the atmosphere there by killing the ozone layer. What we can't control is the natural phenomenon happening in the atmosphere. But, my humble request to the every human being is to stop contributing to the depletion of ozone layer. You can see the effects of it below.

India to spur world GDP growth

2008-10-09T14:31:00.000-07:00

Mentioned below are my comments to the wallstreet journal livemint. Your opinion will be hugely appreciated.

http://www.livemint.com/2008/10/09235930/India-to-spur-world-GDP-growth.html?h=B

There are certain elements in this post that i disagree with this columnist. They have rightly predicted that india's GDP growth for 2009 would be at 6.95%, but GDP for 2010 and 2011 would not be any better that 2009. India's growth is highly dependant on Information technology. And the source of revenue for IT is western europe and United States. If we dig deep in to the revenue splitup, we could very well understand that BFSI (Banking,Financial services and Insurance) would make up majority of the revenue. Given then current crisis in the US Banking and insurance sector, the order books of major IT players will dryup impacting india's growth. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Finance ministry may shout that india may not be impacted by the US crisis. The truth is exactly opposite to what they say. Already we are seeing signs of it in the indian stock market. Whereas the chinese market is a more robust and diverse and may not get impacted heavily like india. Maintaining the growth rate predicted by the IMF is a huge challenge for the next Government.

Effects of WMDs

2008-10-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

I saw a video in youtube and wanted to share it with you all. Accidental use of WMD by either of the world powers like USA & Russia is a doomsday for the rest of the world. We are still living with that for the past couple of decades yet no one is aware of that danger.

Want your name to float around in space

2008-10-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

The title "Want your name to float around in space" was a quote mentioned in a website that hit my eyes while surfing the internet. I thought it was a promotional gimmick or a affiliate program. The temptation to check the website was irrestible even though my mind was convinced that it is a scam. When the link took me to a NASA website i was speechless as if somebody has cast a spell on me. This program is real. The information in the website tells us all the information that we were looking for, the project name is "Glory". Let our name float in the space too. I have registed for that program. Mentioned above is the certificate of participation. Are you also tempted to check the link after reading the article. Check it out yourselves. I have provided the link below.

http://polls.nasa.gov/utilities/sendtospace/jsp/sendName.jsp

Two militants from Kerala shot in Valley trying to cross LoC: Police

2008-10-07T14:29:00.000-07:00

This is my comment to the following article in indianexpress.

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Two-militants-from-Kerala-shot-in-Valley-trying-to-cross-LoC--Police/370672

This is ridicolous. What made them to cross over the loc to learn the traits of terrorism. islam is a religion of peace, they should abide by their religion. if they don't follow their religion,how would you expect people from other religion accept that their "just cause" is genuine. if they are outraged by the religious discrimination as they claim, people of kandhmal , orisa who belong to another minority group should be terrorist as well. Their is no justification for their plan or action. They are doing more harm to their community than anybody else. The sympathy they gained after the arrest of several people who belonged to the minority group is slowly subsiding due to the response of the people from that community. The "response" in the sense the same people from that community wanted to commit more crime than anybody else. This is not a healthy sigh. Elders from that community has to raise to the occasion and to ask their youths to behave.http://tambaramblog.blogspot.com

Local traders are funding terror Ops: Mangalore cops

2008-10-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Mumbai/Local_traders_are_funding_terror_Ops_Mangalore_cops/articleshow/3560866.cms

Below mentioned are my comments for the recent news article in time of india.

When ever i read about the members of terrorist organisation busted by Police and their public show off in the presence of media i get irritated. I was not impressed by their work. What was the intelligence of karnataka police doing all these while, i mean prior to the bomb blasts. is it not what they are supposed to do day in and day out. They are doing their work after loss of serveral innocent lives, the primary reason being they will get media attention and galantry awards. Such is the state of protection we are getting from our corrupt police Department. Does the media have the guts to scrutinize and question our police department?

List of good quit smoking sites

2008-10-03T01:05:00.000-07:00

Below mentioned are the list of good quit smoking sites. If you wanted to add more sites. Please post a comment those sites will be added to our list. Also don't forget to use the Cigarette Cost calculator in our previous post

www.quitnet.org
www.quitsmoking.com
www.quitsmokingsupport.com/
www.cdc.gov/tobacco/how2quit.htm
www.chriscor.com/linkstoa.htm
http://dccps.nci.nih.gov/tcrb/Clearing_the_Air/clearing.htm
www.lungusa.org/tobacco
http://www.megalink.net/~dale/quitcigs.html
http://whyquit.com
http://unr.edu/homepage/shubinsk/smoke.html
http://www.quitsmoking.com/cartoons/archive/

Cigarette Cost calculator

2008-10-03T01:01:00.001-07:00

Put a Cigarette Costs Calculator on your site!

Smoking ban in india

2008-10-03T00:32:00.000-07:00

Now, the talk of the town is the smoking ban (in public places) imposed by our union law minister of india Mr. Anbumani Ramadoss. As a smoker there are two thing that we can do. First we need to find places where we can smoke. This is a cause for worry for almost all the smokers, because the list of public places covers the whole of india. Second we need to quit smoking.

Came across a good article to quit smoking.

Quitting smoking is easy. I’ve done it a thousand times". If that quote by Mark Twain rings a bell, you’re not alone. According to the scoop on smoking site, of all the people who try to quit smoking only 4 or 5% manage to give up permanently. Evidently the nicotine patches, gums and nasal sprays aren’t working. How about trying the many natural methods to quit that Ayurveda offers?
You probably know that cigarette smoke contains nicotine and tar. But did you know that cigarette smoke is a toxic cocktail of nearly four thousand chemicals? Many of them like arsenic, formaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide, and carbon monoxide are considered highly poisonous. Some of them are known to cause cancers.

The Ayurvedic way

According to Ayurveda, nicotine, tar, and other toxic substances found in cigarettes have to be removed from the three intake channels – udak or water, prana or air, and anna or food – as well as the tissues (also called dhatus).

To remove the toxic compounds from your intake channels, drink plenty of cool (not cold) water. Better still, drink water kept in a copper container to scrape away the ama or toxic deposit. To remove the toxic substances already deposited in your tissues, take 3 tablets of triphala before bedtime. Take toning herbs such as ashwagandha, shatavari, bala, and ginseng.

Some other western herbs you could try include skullcap, valerian, parrot’s beak, willow, oak, Oregon grape root and goldenseal.

Try nicotine-free cigarettes containing basil, turmeric, Indian cinnamon, clove, gangal, bishop’s weed, liquorice, tendu leaves, and Indian bdellium instead of nicotine-bearing cigarettes!

The yoga route
Neti-kriya yoga performed morning and night is believed to be an excellent aid. To practice this, allow normal salt solution at room temperature to enter one nostril and flow out of the other. Then, reverse.

You can also perform bhastrika pranayam to remove the contaminants in the upper airways. Read a yoga manual for instructions. This breathing technique can decrease the craving for cigarettes.

Dietary changes
Do you often experience a strange taste on your tongue when trying to quit smoking? To adapt better to the de-addiction, eat fewer acidic foods and more alkaline foods such as raisins, beetroots and lima beans.

Avoid stimulants like alcohol and coffee that often increase your craving for cigarettes.

Without the nicotine, your body’s metabolism will slow down a bit. You may gain some weight, so check your calorie intake and nibble on low-calorie foods like celery, apples, and carrots.

Keep going. Remember – if you persist, you will eventually manage to quit.
What made you decide to quit smoking? Were you concerned about your health or determined to break free of an addiction? Have you tried an alternative to quit-smoking medications? Were you successful?

Jodhpur Muslims won't celebrate Eid after temple stampede

2008-10-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

India is known for its diverse culture and traditions. "Unity in diversity" has been demonstrated by our muslim brothers in rajasthan, inspite of all the serial bomb blast happening in some places of our country. Below mentioned link has the whole story. In my opinion these kind of news should be headlines of the day.

http://www.ibnlive.com/news/jodhpur-muslims-wont-celebrate-eid-after-temple-stampede/74777-3.html

Why H1B Visa is the best

2008-09-30T12:59:00.000-07:00

Awareness Info - H1B visa for USA

INFORMATIVE DESCRIPTION OF H1B
H1B visa is for all literate people around the world to work in USA legally.65,000 people are invited every year

Benefits of H1B visa

a) You go to US with the security of a job.
b) What ever fee you pay is refundable .
c) A job offer is 2 lacs(approx.) per month minimum as per US norms.
d) Lodging Boarding is free till the time you start your job.
e) You can change your job as and when you wish.
f) You can call your spouse and kids to stay with you.
g) You can stay in US for maximum of 6 years.
h) In this period if you want to settle in US you can get a Green Card easily.

All this and more is provided to you if You are a Masters Degree holder (which is equivalent to Bachelors degree of US)…….
OR
You are a bachelors degree plus 3 years experience in the relevant field

Visa free travel for Indians

2008-09-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Found this information in a blog while browsing. Thought this would be usefull for us. Although i wanted to past just the link, i am posting the whole content. Incase if the blog mentioned below or the link dosn't work. We will be deprived of this valuable information.

This one is a very lengthy post. So, please bare with me.
Here we go....

Where all can Indian passport holders travel without applying for a prior visa? Well, it’s a question I have often wondered about. Luckily for us,

It’s over 65+ countries to which we can land with our passports
The following is the result of my research for the countries whichpermit an Indian passport-holder to enter without a visa or byobtaining a visa upon arrival.

ALBANIA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival if holdingconfirmation from Albanian Ministry of Interior stating that visa willbe available on arrival. Confirmation must be obtained beforedeparture to Albania.
AZERBAIJAN
Visa required, which can be issued on arrival for a max. stay of 30days. An invitation is not necessary but it is recommended to hold adocument that shows the purpose of the visit. Visa is only valid forthe cities listed in the visa.
BAHRAIN
If travelling for business purposes visa can be obtained on arrival,but this is subject to Immigration evaluation.
BERMUDA
Visa not required.Bermuda Immigration officers will decide on max. period of stay (up to6 months) depending on reason for travel. Stays exceeding 6 monthsrequire application for residency in person.
BHUTAN
Visa not required for a max. stay of 2 weeks, provided permit isissued upon arrival by Immigration Department.
BURUNDI
Visa required. However, visa can be obtained on arrival, if no diplomaticrepresentation of Burundi is located in country of origin.
CAMBODIA
Visa required. However, visa can be obtained on arrival, if coming for:- touristic purposes for a stay of max. 1 month.- business purposes for a stay of max. 1 month.
CAMEROON
Visa required. Visa on arrival can only be issued to those holding a priorapproval from Le Diligue General de L’Immigration.
CANADA Visa required.If entering from the U.S.A. with a used single entry visa, the visitormay re-enter without obtaining a new Canadian visa, provided the I-94from the U.S.A. and the Canadian port stamps are still valid.
CAPE VERDE ISLANDS
Visa not required if:- Passenger was a former national of Cape Verde Isl., incl. wife, husband or children provided holding proof thereof;- travelling as tourist in organized group and holding Certificado Colectivo de Identidade et Viagem (no limit for number of tourists).Individual passengers coming from countries where no diplomaticrepresentation of Cape Verde is established may obtain visa onarrival.
COOK ISLANDS
If visit is solely for touristic purposes visa not required for a stayof max. 31 days.If visit is for business purposes (which may include acting for or onbehalf of a person/firm established outside Cook Islands) visarequired (which can be issued on arrival), for a stay of max. 21 days.
COSTA RICA
Visa not required for a stay of 30 days.
CUBA
Visa required.If coming for touristic purposes and holding Tourist Card(”Tarjeta del Turista”): visa not required.
DJIBOUTI
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival provided holdingreturn ticket, for a max. stay of 1 month.
DOMINICA
Visa not required for stay of max. 21 days.
EGYPT
Visa required. However, a 14 days visa -free of charge- can be obtained onarrival, if entering Egypt via South Sinai (through Sant Katherine,Sharm El Sheik or Taba airports), provided:- remaining in South Sinai resorts; and- not continuing to any other city in Egypt.
ERITREA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for a stay of max. 1month (renewable for another 2 months), provided request has been madeby sponsor to Eritrea Immigration at least 48 hours before arrival.
ETHIOPIA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for a max. stay of 3months if attending African Union meetings and holding officialletters pertaining to the travel. In some other cases visa can also beobtained if coming for business purposes.
FIJI
Visa not required. On arrival a visitor’s permit can be obtained for astay of max. 4 months.
GEORGIA
Visa required.Visa (of various types and length of stays) can be obtained on arrivalat the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa Dept. at the airport. However,one months notice of arrival is required.
GIBRALTAR
Visa required. However, if holding:- a multiple entry visa (valid for at least 1 year) to the United Kingdom; OR- a passport endorsed “Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode in the United Kingdom” visa not required.
GRENADA
Visa not required for a stay of max. 3 months.
GUAM
If arriving directly from U.S. Mainland, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Ricoor U.S. Virgin Islands, no entry documents required due to noimmigration control.
GUINEA-BISSAU
Visa required.If arriving from a country without representation of Guinea-Bissau,visa applications by letter to be made 14 days prior to arrival to:Comissariado de Estado da Seguranca Nacional e Ordem Publica daRepublica da Guinea-Bissau (State Directorate of National Security andPublic order of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau). The visa will then beavailable at the airport of Guinea-Bissau.
HAITI
Visa not required for a stay of max. 3 months.
HONG KONG
Visa not required for stay of max. 14 days.
INDONESIA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for a max. stay of 30days provided:- passport contains at least one unused visa page for the visa-on-arrival sticker, which covers entire passport page; AND- holding ticket and other documents for return/onward journey.
IRAN
Visa required. However, it can be issued on arrival provided:- coming for tourist purposes only for a max. stay of 7 days; OR- passenger has been introduced by means of a letter from valid organization or government at least two days prior to arrival, for a max. stay of 72 hours.
ISRAEL
Visa required. However, if travelling in a group of 10 or more passengersand holding prior approval from Ministry of Interior visa can beobtained on arrival.
JAMAICA
Visa not required, for a max. stay of 14 days.
KAZAKHSTAN
Visa required.A visa can be issued on arrival at Almaty/Astana airports (providedpre-arranged and approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ofKazakhstan) for both private and business purposes, for a stay of max.one month.
KENYA
Visa required.It is possible for a visa for a max. stay of 3 months to beissued on arrival. However, this will cause considerable delay.
KOREA (REPUBLIC)
Visa required.However, visa not required for a stay of max. 30 days provided:A. holding visa for Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand or U.S.A. and travelling to or from these countries; ORB. having visited Korea (Rep.) 4 times within the last 2 years or 10 times or more in total.
KUWAIT
Visa required. However, visa can be obtained on arrival if coming for vacationor leisure for a stay of max. 1 month, provided:- having sponsor in Kuwait holding the original visa; and- holding confirmation from transporting airline that visa is available on arrival.
KYRGYZSTAN
Visa required.Visa can be issued on arrival for a stay of max. one month when coming from:- countries with Kyrgyzstan representation, provided holding confirmation from Kyrgyzstan authorities;- countries without Kyrgyzstan representation, provided a sponsor can announce the passenger(s) to the authorities.
LEBANON
Visa can be obtained on arrival under certain conditions to:- businessmen and other top professionals residing in a GCC member country (see TIRGL/GCC ); OR- businessmen with prior approval from Lebanese Immigration; OR- tourist groups.
LIBERIA
Visa required.If arriving from a country without diplomatic representation ofLiberia: visa issue on arrival possible if holding telex confirmationfrom the station manager of delivering airline.
MACAO
Visa not required for a stay of max. 30 days.
MADAGASCAR
Visa required. A 90 days visa can be obtained on arrival.
MALAYSIA
Visa required. However, if coming for touristic purposes, visa can be obtainedon arrival, for a max. stay of 30 days.
MALDIVES
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for:1. a max. stay of 30 days, provided holding: - hotel confirmation; and - sufficient funds to cover stay; and - onward/return ticket for next destination.; OR2. a stay of more than 30 days, to a max. stay of 90 days, provided passenger has: - a local sponsor, who must inform Immigration at Male at least 1 day prior to passengers arrival; and - onward/return ticket for next destination.
MAURITIUS
Visa not required for a max. stay of 15 days for touristic purposes only.
MICRONESIA
Visa not required for a stay of max. 30 days, provided coming fortouristic or visitor purposes.
MOLDOVA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival at Chisinau Airport provided:- arriving from a country without diplomatic representation of Moldova.
MONTSERRAT
Visa not required for a max. stay of:- 3 months, provided travelling with passport;- 14 days when travelling with other documents.
MOZAMBIQUE
Visa required. However, if coming for touristic or business purposes, visa canbe obtained on arrival (at airport only).
NEPAL
Visa not required.
NIUE
Visa not required for a stay up to 30 days provided holding:- confirmed return/onward ticket; AND- documents required for return/onward journey; AND- sufficient funds.
NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
Visa required. However, if holding U.S. entry visa, visa not requiredfor a max. stay of 30 days, provided U.S. visa:- is valid for 60 days from entry date into CNMI; AND- allows re-entry back into the U.S.A. on departure.
PALAU ISLANDS
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for a stay of max. 30 days.
PUERTO RICO
If arriving directly from Mainland U.S.A., Alaska, Guam, Hawaii orU.S. Virgin Islands no entry documents required due to no immigrationcontrol.
QATAR
Visa required.The following visas can be obtained on arrival: - 14 day tourist visa, provided application submitted to airport immigration at least 24 hours before arrival by any of the registered hotels in Doha. Passenger must also hold proof of confirmed hotel reservation and at least USD 1,400.- or any major credit card; OR - 7 day business visa can be issued at Doha airport provided notification received at least 48 hours prior to arrival.
SAMOA
Visa not required if holding a visitor’s permit, which can be obtainedon arrival for a stay of max. 60 days.
SAO TOME & PRINCIPE
Visa required.Visa may only be granted on arrival provided prior arrangements havebeen made by transporting carrier up to 24 hours prior to flightdeparture. Max. stay of one month allowed.
SEYCHELLES
Visa not required as Visitor’s Permit for 1 month (depends on validityof ticket) will be issued on arrival provided holding:- onward/return ticket or otherwise ticket must be purchased on arrival; AND- sufficient funds (USD 150.- per day) and proof of accommodation during stay.
SIERRA LEONE
Visa required. However, visa on arrival is also possible underfollowing conditions:- no diplomatic representation of Sierra Leone at point of origin; AND- sponsor or contact person in Sierra Leone should arrange Landing Permit with the Principal Immigration Officer. Details of such Landing Permit should be given to the Station Manager of transporting airline at least 48 hours prior to arrival.
SRI LANKA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for a touristic stayof max. 30 days.
ST. KITTS-NEVIS
Visa not required for a stay of max. 3 months.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Visa not required for a max. stay of 1 month.
TANZANIA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival.
THAILAND
Visa required.Visa can be obtained on arrival (ONLY at Bangkok, Chiang Mai,Chiang Rai, Hat Yai, Phuket, Samui Int’l, Sukhothai, SuratThani, Utapao airports) for a stay of max. 15 days, provided:- coming for touristic purposes; AND- passport is valid at least 6 months; AND- holding onward/return ticket; AND- holding USD 250.- per person or USD 500.- per family.
TIMOR LESTE
Entry Permit can be obtained on arrival for a max. stay of 30 days.
TOGO
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for max. 7 days.
TURKS & CAICOS ISL.
Visa not required for a stay of max. 30 days.
TUVALU
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival for a stay of max. one month.
UGANDA
Visa required, which can be obtained on arrival.
VANUATU
Visa not required for a max. stay of 30 days.
VIRGIN ISLANDS (BRITISH)
Visa not required for a stay of max. 30 days.

reference links
http://mutiny.wordpress.com/2006/10/13/visa-free-travel-for-indians/
http://www.qantas.com.au/info/flying/beforeYouTravel/visaHealth

Drinkers building Vijay mallya's wealth and fame

2008-09-28T14:32:00.000-07:00

Not many would be aware of the fact that India's very own vijay mallya is the fifth largest liquor marketers in the world. If you want to know the other top liquor marketers in the world here goes the list.

Top Liquor marketers in the world.

Diageo (93.2 million cases)
Pernod Ricard (45 million cases)
Allied Domecq (43.6 million cases)
Bacardi (34.2 m million cases)

Google's 10 million contest

2008-09-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

Google’s 10^100 “contest” sounds like a pretty cool concept. Basically it’s crowdsourcing ideas for the best ways to help the most people, then $10 million dollars from Google goes to fulfilling those ideas

You can suggest an idea based on below mentioned topics. Link for that page is mentioned at the bottom of this page.

Community: How can we help connect people, build communities and protect unique cultures? Opportunity: How can we help people better provide for themselves and their families?
Energy: How can we help move the world toward safe, clean, inexpensive energy?
Environment: How can we help promote a cleaner and more sustainable global ecosystem? Health: How can we help individuals lead longer, healthier lives?
Education: How can we help more people get more access to better education?
Shelter: How can we help ensure that everyone has a safe place to live?
Everything else: Sometimes the best ideas don't fit into any category at all.

http://www.project10tothe100.com

Top Indian job sites

2008-09-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

Mentioned below are the top indian job sites. These sites are included based on the search results popularity. If you find any job sites which are popular but not in this list. Please post a comment we will get it listed here.

naukri.com

jobsahead.com

monsterindia.com

http://www.shine.com/

careerindia.com

placementindia.com

jobsearch.rediff.com

bestjobsindia.in

jobzing.com

cybermediadice.com

http://www.jobsindia.org/

http://www.careerkhazana.com/

http://www.jobsgala.com/

United States Expresses Support for Pakistan After Bombing

2008-09-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

President Bush met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari at the United Nations to discuss the September 20 truck bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad and review relations between the United States and Pakistan

Although nobody claimed responsibility for the September 20 bombing in pakistan. It is most likely would have come from the tribal regions of pakistan. These tribal regions have a dubious distinction of being the biggest exporter of terrorist to other nations. These region is a safe havens for al-Qaida and remnants of the Taliban. This truely justifies the american bombing in that region. Pakistan should thank america instead of accusing it for breaching its sovereignity. Because pakistan should be doing this (elimination of terrorist) with their tax payers money, but america is doing this job on behalf of Pakistan.

Awkward moments of life

2008-09-25T15:56:00.000-07:00

I was browsing through a social networking site and found some thing common for people all over the world. Irrespective of race colour religion. Those are the awkward little moments that happens to every one. I have listed below some of those moments.

1. walked down the hall and someone you know is really far away but you dont want to make eye contact too soon yet you dont want to miss it so you look at them then look away..

2. gone in for a hug and had your arms the wrong way or your heads both go the same direction then you bump heads

3. kept bumping in to someone... they walk right you walk right, they walk left you walk left etc.

4. messed up a high five; theres many ways to do this believe me... high fived it when they went for a pound. high fived someone when they ment to highfive the person BEHIND you and so on.

5. waved to someone when they were waving to someone behind you

6. grabbing someone elses food [i.e. drinking someone elses smoothie...]

7. someone spoke to you in bad english and you just smiled and nodded yes when the question wasnt a yes or no question

8. awkward silences.

9. calling somones name when its not them.

10. calling someones name and they dont hear you so everyone stares at you when you look like your talking to yourself

11. awkward conversations in general

12. stuck talking to someone and you both slowly start walking different ways

13. saying bye and then walking the same way as that person

14. talking really loud when loud music is on and then people turn it down and you say something really loud

15. typing something while another person ims you and you always end up sending them really weird sounding things by mistake

16. Walking down the hall and being at the point where you know them but you are not sure if you know them enough to say hi yet, so you dont

17. having a hole in your pants

18. joining in on a random conversation followed by stares

19. when you're at a restaurant and the waiter says "enjoy your meal" and you say "you too" only realizing later that they aren't going to eat anything

20. talking about a group of people or people who are of a certain ethnicity/religion or whatever and having somone of that group be right there.. also talking about somone whos behind and/or next to you

21. and best of all you just love to make awkward smiles in pictures.

22. told a joke that no one laughed at (or one that only YOU thought was funny)

23. told a story that people respond with "here we go again" or "that was the most worthless story i've ever heard"

24. this group.

25. sang REALLY loud and then someone changes the station or whatnot leaving you singing REALLY loud for a second or two..

26. on facebook you think your writing back to someone but then a day or two later you realize you had written it on your own wall. yeah you're awesome

27. getting caught hooking up...in front of ur parents

Message from the 'father of the internet'

2008-09-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about 340 trillion, trillion, trillion. It is 34 followed by 37 zeros. Still don't get it. (i.e ) 340,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000

Why this number is significant for us now. It is significant because the "father of the Internet" says soo. Just of curiosity, Do you all know who the father of internet is? Because i inspite of being a computer engineering graduate did not know the answer. :-)

The world is about to run out of the internet addresses that allow computers to identify each other and communicate, the man who invented the system has told The Times.
Vint Cerf, the “father of the internet” and one of the world’s leading computer scientists, said that businesses and consumers needed to act now to switch to the next generation of net addresses. Unless preparations were made now, he said, some computers might not be able to go online and the connectivity of the internet might be damaged.

Mr Cerf said that internet service providers in particular needed to prepare and that time was running out for a smooth transition.
Every computer and online device is assigned a unique IP address, but the pool of unallocated numbers is about to dry up.
“This is like the internet running out of telephone numbers and with no new numbers, you can’t have more subscribers,” he said.
When Mr Cerf and others founded the internet system in 1977, he set in place "internet protocol version four" (IPv4) which provided 4.2 billion addresses. With the number of internet-enabled devices, particularly mobile phones, soaring, less than 14 per cent of those addresses remain vacant.
It is estimated that IPv4 addresses, each of which is a series of 32 binary digits, will run out in 2010 and possibly as early as next year.
A new system, called IPv6, has been ready for implementation for more than a decade.
Under IPv6, each address has 128 bits and so provides 340 trillion, trillion, trillion different addresses - that is 340,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000. It is assumed that this will meet humanity’s needs for decades to come.
The two protocol systems will run in tandem and IPv4 addresses will still work as normal. But if the IPv6 is not widely adopted, then those using it may find themselves unable to connect across the whole internet.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has warned that shifting to the new addressing scheme was “critical for the future of the internet economy” and was likely to affect “all businesses that require IP addresses for their growth".
It has urged governments to mount extensive education campaigns and encourage its adoption by specifying it in tenders for work.
Mr Cerf said the rise of the “internet of things” where ordinary objects such as light switches, radiators and cars are connected to the net has accelerated the rate at which the IP addresses are being used up.
He also predicted that as the supply of IPv4 addresses dries up, companies will scramble to secure the last ones, accelerating the rate of exhaustion. IPv4 adddresses may run out in 2009, he warned web users

Mr Cerf, 65, helped build Arpanet, the original internet, and is credited along with Bob Kahn with inventing the TCP/IP protocols - the standards on which the internet runs - in the early 1970s. He is now a consulting engineer and in 2005 became the “chief internet evangelist” at Google.
He said: “The technical stuff for IPv6 is done. IPv6 is ready. This is a business issue in the internet service industry. The ISP community round the world needs to pay attention.”
He said he had been speaking to ISPs, including AT&T and Verizon in the United States and BT, the biggest ISP in the UK. He said the bulk of companies had no idea about IPv6 and the ISPs were not informing them.
“They are persisting in the ‘nobody is asking for this’ mentality," he said "They are not valuing business continuity as they should.
“When they finally wake up, there is going to be a mad scramble for IPv6 and they won’t implement it properly.”
He said consumers needed to be aware of IPv6 and to start checking that the products they buy are IPv6 compatible.
Most software companies such as Microsoft and many hardware companies are already making their products IPv6 ready.
It is thought that, properly handled, the effect of the introduction of IPv6 on consumers will be minimal, although eventually home routers may have to be upgraded or swapped so they can use the longer addresses.
In Asia, governments in China, Korea and Japan have led the roll out of the new protocol.
The Department for Business said it was consulting with companies and ISPs about the best way to encourage the implementation of IPv6.
A Cabinet Office spokesman said: “Government technology experts are confident that an efficient use of current public IP addresses and a move to IPv6 as the need arises will avert any risk of address exhaustion in Government systems."
Some large companies are already using IPv6 as it helps ease administration on large internal networks.

http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/article4819803.ece?token=null&offset=12&page=2

Usefull Tamil Nadu Goverment websites

2008-09-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

After an extensive search in the internet, i found a couple of interesting tamil nadu government websites which will be usefull for the younger generation. Waiting in the governmet office to get certain things done by the governmet officials is the worst nightmare a educated youth could face in his lifetime. I myself have experienced difficulties during my visits to the Government offices to get a process done. Sometimes it will take months if not years to get a thing or two done by the govt. officials. The main reason to prolong even a simple process is to get kick backs from the people. No wonder why India slipped 13 places in the recent global corruption index. Apart from these corruption related incidents The way they treat the common man is truely pathetic. I believe the govt. officials tend to forget that they are government servents and not govt. bosses.

Keeping this in mind the Tamil nadu governmet has taken certain steps in the right direction to cut out corruption.

1) Birth and Death certificates can be verified and printed online using the below mentioned website.

http://www.chennaicorporation.gov.in/online-civic-services/birthanddeath.htm

2) You can view the Patta Copy (Chitta Extract) and A-Register Extract for the agriculture land in Tamil Nadu using the below mentioned website.

http://eservices.tn.gov.in/eservicesnew/taluk_revenue.html

3) The third website though not a official tamilnadu govt. website. It will be usefull to find doctors either by speciality or location of the patient.

http://chennaidoctors.org/

Hope this will be helpfull for you all. Please don't hesitate to comment if you find otherwebsite that might be usefull for the people. We will add it to the list.

WHO OWNS KASHMIR?

2008-09-25T03:44:00.000-07:00

An ingenious example of speech and politics occurred recently in the United Nations Assembly that made the world community smile. A representative from India began: 'Before beginning my talk I want to tell you something about Rishi Kashyap of Kashmir, after whom Kashmir is named. When Rishi Kashyap struck a rock and it brought forth water, he thought,'What a good opportunity to have a bath.' He took off his clothes, put them aside on the rock and entered the water. When he got out and wanted to dress, his clothes had vanished. A Pakistani had stolen them. The Pakistani representative jumped up furiously and in support of Pakistan , he shouted, 'What are you talking about? The Pakistanis weren't there then.' The Indian representative smiled and said, 'And now that we have made that clear, I will begin my speech saying that Kashmir has been an integral part of India all along.'

This was posted by a blogger (jil jo) in rediff. Good jovial post.

An odyssey into Tambaram's origins

2008-09-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Found an interesting article about tambaram posted on another website. Thought of sharing it with our friends. find below the link of the article. I have also posted the entire content for those who have problem accessing the site.

http://www.newstodaynet.com/02oct/ss1.htm

Will you believe that Tambaram and its adjoining areas were flourishing urban centres even a millennium ago? Specially for people who had settled here a few decades back when the neighbourhood was only a big, calm village it may sound astonishing. But that is the fact. Tambaram and many other localities in the vicinity like Madambakkam were well developed urban places even a thousand years ago

S Ramachandran, formerly Epigraphist with the Archaeological Department, Government of Tamilnadu and a historian said that the word Tambaram is a corruption of the town's ancient name 'Taampuramana Gunaseela Nallur' Evidence for this could be found in the 13th century inscriptions that were found at the ancient Siva Temple at Tirusulam.
The etymological import of the olden name suggests that the place was a busy urban centre. High rise buildings, palatial bungalows must be common. 'I could visualise a vibrant economy with agriculture and many other trades prospering in those golden olden days,' the historian said.
He also explained that Tambaram and other nearby areas were networked by extensive lakes which were the lifeline of the then society.
The place near the hillock, just behind the present day government Sanatorium Ayotidasar Hospital and MEPZ, was in fact a large lake. It might have extended upto New Colony, Chrompet in those days. Agriculture and allied industries and the society as a whole is likely to have witnessed good times, Ramachandran said.

Madambakkam's antiquity
Madambakkam, near Tambaram is a very early settlement and has a hoary history behind it. The former official of the State archaeology department says that the word Madambakkam originally meant a place where multi-storied buildings abounded. The place finds a mention in Thevaram hyms as early as in 7th century AD.
Significantly, a grand temple dating back to 13th century, built by the Hoysala kings was excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India in the past decade. 'This also supports the view that places like Tambaram and Madambakkam were vivacious urban centres in those days,' he said. Interestingly, a large migration of Telugu speaking Yadavas happened during the 14th century AD.
At this time, the name Madambakkam came to be known as one referring to a place where there were a lot of bovines. That the name of the ancient temple of this place is known as 'Thenupureeswarar Temple' lends credence to this view. Thenu refers to Kamadhenu or cow population. Hence, the deity of the place where cows were in plenty was referred as Thenupureeswarar.
Tirusulam Inscriptions
The inscriptions that were found in Tirusulam temples offers fascinating insights into the life and times of the past. For instance, the ancient name of present day irusulam is Tiruchuramana Thiruneetru Sozha Nallur Inscriptions dating back to 12th and 13th centuries found in the Tirusulam Siva Temple evidence this.

From where came the name 'Tambaram'?
Commenting on the origins of the name Tambaram, the senior archeologist said that in the past the names of many towns and villages in Tamilnadu had originated from the name of the presiding deity of the ancient temple of that place.
He opined that the place could have been named after a chief deity of Tambaram's ancient temple. It is possible that Tambaram could have been a derivate of Taamapureeswaram from Taamapureeswarar . There is another possibility. That is, Dhama in Sanskrit and Taambu in Tamil means rope. 'There might have been coir manfucaturing cottage industries and hence the name Tambaram,' he said.
Story behind Chennai's vicinities
Interestingly, several localities of present day Chennai have an ancient past and interesting anectodes behind its names. A verse from Sangam age Tamil work of Purananooru (Verses 175, 389, Author: Kallil Aathiraiyanar) suggests that the heartland and peripheries of Chennai were bustling towns even two millenium ago.
It speaks of Aadan Nungan, a chieftain who ruled regions of present day Chennai with Tirupati (Vengadam) as his capital. Endai vaazhi aadan nunga en nenjam thiraporu nir kaanguvarae.
'My beloved Aadan Nunga, people who open my heart would see you in it.' This verse line hints that Nungambakkam and suburban Adambakkam could have been under the reign of Adan Nungan and that these places may have been named after him. So far as the suffix 'Bakkam' (early word Pakkam, its corruption is Bakkam) goes, it refers to busy urban centres near a sea coast. Chepakkaam (Chepauk in English) could have come from Serppaanpakkam. Serppan refers to a local coastal settlement chief. Meenambakkam is very likely to be a corruption of Meenavanpakkam. Kodambakkam may be the present day name for Kodampakkai as evidenced by some 13th century inscriptions.
The Mughal invasion
When asked whether there was no solid evidence to prove the history behind the name of Tambaram, Ramachandran, patiently turned back for us the pages of history. He explained that towards the end of 17th century, Zulfiqar Khan, general of Mughal emperor Aurangazeb invaded many parts of Tamilnadu like Gingee, Kanchipuram, Chengelpet and the regions of present day Tambaram and nearby settlements like Pallavaram.
Inscriptions depicting the invasion led by Khan were found in Kundrathur temples and in a Kanchipuram mosque. Seethakathi Nondi Nadagam also speaks of the conquest.
During and after this Mughal conquest, many temples were razed down and sculptures were destroyed in this region as Aurangazeb was an iconoclast, the historian said and opined that many precious information housed in temples were thus lost for ever.
'Had such temples been spared in this area, perhaps we might have got interesting information related to the past including the origins of Tambaram,' he said. Referring to the well documented conversion of Pallava king Mahendravarman's rock cut cave temple in Pallavaram - belonging to 7th century AD - to a Muslim place of worship, (and vandalism committed there) Ramachandran said that such things were common place especially during the reign of Aurangazeb. He also referred to the mottai gopuram of Madambakkam Thenupureeswarar temple as a possible victim of invasion.
S Ramachandran is a resident of Chrompet. He can be contacted at 2223 5172

Operation BAD by Indian Mujahideen

2008-09-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

The Latest news is the claim by the Mumbai police that they have foiled an attemp by the indian mujahideen to attack important places in Mumbai. So, the objective is very clear indian mujahideen wanted more blood bath in important cities in India. I wonder why the people of indian origin wanted to see their own citizens die. I got curious to know the motive behind these dastardly attacks by Indian Mujahideen. I thought seeing thing from their prespective will help me understand the motive for these attacks. Well, there could be number of factors that could have influenced these disillusioned muslim youths to take such a decision. Let me list out some of the factors below.
1. They could have been affected by a religious tension.
2. They could have been influenced by the neighbouring nation by playing the religious card.
3. They could have been very poor and could have done these for money (But, it is highly unlikely to have happened because some of these men was from affulent middle class)

Now, lets discuss these factors in great detail from their prespective. The first factor that could have affected them is religious tension. If their relative or friends have been affected by the religous tension, it could have angered them. Every human being in the world would be sad to lose their loved and dear ones. I understand the trauma they could have undergone by missing their loved ones. But, that dosn't justify these terrorist acts. They as a islamic movement or organisation could have helped others who had faced such misery. This could have brought them fame instead of shame.

The second factor is a serious one. If they are instigating jihad against India influenced by other nation. They must understand the meaning of jihad. Example of a true jihad is the one waged by the Afganistan jihadist against the occupation force. I salute and respect these jihadists because they were defending their country and people. Moreover they were fighting a mighty USSR. Their bravery is commendable. In Indian Mujahideen's case they are fighting innocent and unarmed people. This is not bravery, but a cowardly act. If at all they wanted to wage a jihad. They must have targeted the Indian military or the Indian police not the common man. Here they have brought shame to their religion. Because Islam says a muslim should not hurt or kill another muslim. Few of them affected by these bomb blast are muslims.

Now, If money is the reason for these blasts. This according to me is the most stupid way of earning money. Because it not only affects the individuals, it will also affect their family. This indeed will bring shame to their family.

Union Labour minister justifying the CEO killing

2008-09-23T15:07:00.000-07:00

Many would have heard about the killing of CEO by their workers. while industry groups reacted with a chorus of outrage, Union Labour Minister Oscar Fernandes said his murder should serve as a “warning” to corporates.

Blaming what he called hire-and-fire policies of companies for “simmering discontent” among workers, Fernandes asked “managements to deal with them with compassion”.
“People are employed on contract basis. There is disparity in wages of permanent workers and contract workers. There is simmering discontent among workers and they should not be driven to such an extent as happened in Greater Noida...Managements have to see this as a warning and they should also respond adequately,” Fernandes said

I disagree with the justification given by the union labour minister. "Hire and fire" of employees is prevalent in industralized western nation. Still i did not hear any one killing the CEO of their company. we can take the classic example of "outsourcing". Americans companies started outsourcing their jobs to india. It resulted in numerous job losses in their country. It even became a prime political issue. But, no one killed a CEO of their company. These kinds of incidents will have an adverse impact on all the companies, particularly the foreign companies. They will look for other attractive destination for their investments, most notably china. Indirectly it will impact our FDI and forex reserves. These sort of incidents should be curtailed. Government should play a active role to difuse any tension between the employer and the employee. This is one among the reason why we have a labour minister. I deeply regret the comment made by the minister.

Google Co-founder Larry page is the best

2008-09-23T10:37:00.000-07:00

Most of you must have heard about the co-founder of google Larry Page. Google co-founder Larry Page will keynote the "Broadband for the Future Event" in Washington, DC. The event is designed to advocate for white spaces, something Google has been adamant about for a long time.
If you're unaware, white spaces are a unused airwaves between TV stations. Google wants them to be used for free nationwide wireless. Opponents say that it will interfere with the television signals.
These kinds of innovation will orginate only from google labs. Remember Google Earth, which made powerfull nations to file a law suite against google.
No wonder why it is the No. 1 internet advertiser in the world.

Here's the details on the event if you wish to attend.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008
11:30 am - 1:00 pm ET
Room SD-G50, Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510

முதல் தமிழ் வெளியீடு

2008-09-22T15:58:00.000-07:00

என்ன தான் ஆங்கிலத்தில் நம் நண்பர்களின் பட்ட பெயரை எழுதினாலும் தமிழிலில் எழுதுவது போல் வருமா.

பெயர் பட்ட பெயர்
சசி குமார் வெட்டு கிளி (ஆ ) கோண சித்தப்பு
சாம் பிரசாத் மயில்
யோகேஷ் சப்ப காலன்
விஜீஷ் சின்ன சப்ப காலன்
ஹரி வாத்து (ஆ ) தண்ணி துபாக்கி
ராஜேஷ் பூரான்
சாபு கலவரம்
ரஞ்சித் சூனா பானா
மோகன் ராம் பூனை
கார்த்தி (பாட் ஒன்பது ) மட்டி
திருணா மொக்க மோகன் (ஆ) ரம்பம்
ரஞ்சித் மூணு கொட்ட மூஸா
ராஜகந்தன் ரப்பர்

மாற்ற பெயர்களை நாளை மொழி மாற்றம் செய்கிறேன் .

India to Reach for the Moon Next Month

2008-09-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

http://www.techtree.com/India/News/India_to_Reach_for_the_Moon_Next_Month/551-93475-547.html

This is truely a remarkable achievement, inspite of numerous technological denials the western nations have imposed on us. Our ISRO scientists have made the whole country proude. As a matter of fact the whole of south asia should be proud of this achievement. So far, very few countries have launced a probe to moon to find out the minerals it has underneath its surface. India will be one among them if the launch goes through successfully.

We as true indians should wish them Good luck

Its Me "Thani Tupaki"

2008-09-22T01:41:00.000-07:00

Goiyalla Ellam Irrukingala oiye

List of interesting sites

2008-09-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

We will list of some very interesting sites here. Those who wanted to add more sites, please post a comment. We will add it to the list.

1) Free english language learning site
http://www.livemocha.com/

2) Live Video Learning site
http://edufire.com/
(Courtesy blogger lanney)

3) All instant messaging software integrated in one website. (No need to install anything)

http://www.meebo.com/

3) Excellent career essential site
http://www.mindtools.com

4) Information about badware
http://stopbadware.org

5) Tamil Nadu Public Service commission registration sites

http://www.tnpsc.gov.in
http://tnpsconline.tn.nic.in/

How to Tell if a Person's Bluffing in Any Situation

2008-09-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

How would you like to know if the guy sitting across the poker table from you really has a full house or just a pair of deuces? Or if your top executive is serious about quitting if he doesn't get a raise? There is a way to tell just about anytime, in any situation, if someone is bluffing because no matter what the situation all bluffs have one thing in common.
To understand how this works let's define what a bluff really is. A bluff occurs when a person is really against something but pretends to be for it. Or when he is for something and pretends to be against it. Consequently, when a person bluffs he usually tries to appear as if he doesn't care when he really does, and he pretends to be concerned when he really isn't.
In any case, he is trying to create a false impression intended to disguise his true belief. Therein lies the key: People who bluff generally overcompensate, in either direction, and if you look for it, it's glaringly obvious.
You can uncover a bluff instantly by noticing how someone tries to appear. A card player bets heavily and raises the pot. Does he have the cards or just guts? When bluffing—in this case, in a poker hand—he wants to show that he's not timid. So he puts in his money fast. But if he did have a good hand, what might he do? That's right, deliberate a bit, putting it in slowly to show that he isn't really sure about his hand. When people bluff at anything, in poker or in the real world, they manipulate how confident they appear. This means that they try to create the opposite impression of how they truly feel.
Again, while bluffing, and in trying to appear confident, he bets quickly. And when he has a good hand he will actually wait a moment or two to pretend that he's thinking about what to do. This goes for all situations. If he reacts too quickly and assuredly then he is trying to show that he is confident, when in many cases he really isn't.

my best friends

2008-09-15T03:46:00.000-07:00

1. bala ( babloo)
2.rajakanthan (rubber)
3.narsiman (nassist)
4.alosius (araloose)
5.jaikumar (netai jai)
6.guruprasad (kandy)
7.s.p.sasi kumar (vetu killi)
8.T.g.sasikumar (spicy)
9.kishorekumar (perachali)
10.hariharan (thani tupaki)
11.rajesh (nagesh)
12.justin (fower)
13.thirumurugan (10000 meter)
14.ranjith (vinayaga model)
15.lakshmi (shaki)
16.moharam (cat)
yevalavu friends irrundalum urupadiya yarum illayea. enna koduma sir ithu.

The Mayan Calendar

2008-09-10T02:59:00.000-07:00

The choice of this topic came to my mind from the infamous news "The Big Bang experiment". Scientist at CERN (a European organisation for nuclear research) are getting ready to drive two beams of particles into each other at close to the speed of light in a machine called the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

This will recreate the Big Bang and answer questions about the origins of life, the universe and everything. Black hole creation Though no one really knows what 'will' happen, all sorts of theories of sudden annihilation abound.

But, here comes another problem as physicists get set to recreate the Big Bang, German chemistry professor Otto Rossler predicts that their experiment will actually create a mini black hole that will suck all life and light into it and lead to the end of the world.

This leads me to believe that the Mayan predicted the doomsday several hundred years ago using there calender "The Mayan Calender". Is the end nearing for us? Lets first see the brief of mayan history and an indepth analysis of their calender

The Maya civilisation inhabited a region encompassing southern Mexico, Guatemala and Belize and flourished between the third and tenth centuries AD, but by 1200 AD their society had collapsed for reasons we can only guess at. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived, descendants still occupied the area, and still spoke the Mayan language, but were unaware of the cities their forefathers had created.
It wasn't until the late 18th century that explorers first investigated the dense Guatemalan rainforest and came across plazas, monoliths, temples and pyramids, each decorated with pictures and hieroglyphs. The ancient Maya had been keeping historical records - using a script which mixed ideographic and phonetic elements. Some of their writing still exists on stelae (stone monuments) that recount civil events and record their calendric and astronomical knowledge.
Spanish Conquest
Diego de Landa was a Spanish priest who visited Mexico on a charitable mission, became the Franciscan provincial of Yucatán in 1561 and is infamous for his destruction of priceless Maya documents and artefacts.
Although Landa was very interested in the Mayan culture, he abhorred certain aspects of their practices, particularly human sacrifice. In July 1562, when evidence of human sacrifice was found in a cave containing sacred Maya statues, a bout of religious self-righteousness saw Landa order the destruction of five thousand idols. He decided that their books were also the devil's work and saw to it that they were burned, with only three books surviving. Consequently the majority of Mayan knowledge and history was lost.
This is just a small portion of my online book, Survive 2012 - a look into possible ways our world might end, and how to survive. Available in bookstores sometime before 2012, fingers-crossed...
Yet despite his actions, we are also indebted to Landa for his acute and intelligent opus on Mayan life and religion, Relación de las cosas de Yucatán (1566), which remains the classical text on Mayan civilisation. This book, which was not printed until 1864, provided a phonetic alphabet that made it possible to decipher roughly one-third of the remaining Mayan hieroglyphs.
The most important of the surviving books was what is now called the Dresden Codex, named after the city where it was lodged. It is a strange book, inscribed with hieroglyphs, which no one understood until 1880. At that time Ernst FØrstemann, a German scholar who worked at the same Dresden library, managed to crack the code of the Mayan calendar making it possible for other academics to translate the many dated inscriptions found on buildings, stelae and other ancient Mayan artefacts.
He discovered that the Codex contained detailed astrological tables, which calculated the year to be 365.2420 days long, more accurate than the Julian calendar that we use today. The tables were used exclusively by the Mayan astronomers to predict the solstices and equinoxes, the path of the planets in our solar system, the cycles of Venus and Mars, and other celestial phenomena.
Other information we have today has been gleaned from the Popol Vuh and Chilam Balam - books written just after the Spanish arrived. The knowledge found in these books and codices, combined with the uncovering of mysterious pyramids, demonstrate that the Maya had an intelligence to rival the Greeks and Egyptians.
Mayan Calendar

The life of the Maya revolved around the concept of time. Priests were consulted on civil, agricultural and religious matters, and their advice would be derived from readings of the sacred calendars. Time was of such importance that children were even named after the date on which they were born.
Maya math uses only three symbols - a shell-shaped glyph for zero, a dot for one and a bar for five to represent units from zero to 19. For instance, the number 13 was represented as three dots and two bars.
Zero was an advanced concept in those days, something that the Romans were not aware of. Yet the Maya were comfortable enough with it to use a shell as its symbol, a tangible object representing an abstract concept. The Maya also used metrical calculation and place numeration, which were very clever for a culture that didn't use the wheel!
Although they had many calendars, they marked the passage of time with three cycles that ran in parallel.
The first is the scared calendar known as the Tzolkin. It combines the numbers from 1 through 13 with a sequence of 20 day-names. It works in a similar manner to our named days of the week, and their date within each month. So you might have 5-Chikchan (like our Sunday the 5th) followed by 6-Kimi (as we would have Monday the 6th). After 260 days the same number/name combination will re-occur, and the calendar starts anew. Their use of the vigesimal (base 20) numbering system probably relates to fingers and toes, whereas the 13 nicely fits the growth phase of the moon which isn't visible when new and appears full for two days on end, thus appearing to have a 13 day growth cycle. Alternatively, the length of the Tzolkin may be related to the human gestation period of nine months (273 days). It has been suggested that 260 days is the time between a woman suspecting her pregnancy (she doesn't menstruate) and when she gives birth.
The second is the agricultural calendar known as the Haab, or vague year. It consists of 18 months, each of 20 days. An addition of a five-day month (a period of apprehension and bad luck named Uayeb) gives us 365 days, an approximation of a year. This calendar's primary purpose was to keep track of the seasons, for seasonal and solar events would occur on roughly the same day of each year. The Maya were aware of the annual quarter day discrepancy, but it is not known if they ever did anything about it.
These two independently running calendars each begin again every 260 and 360+5 days. However, every 52 years they coincide:
"The Tzolkin and the Haab ran concurrently, like intermeshed cog-wheels, and to return to any given date, 52 years, or 18,980 days, would have to elapse (because both 365 x 52 and 260 x 73 = 18,980). In other words, the Tzolkin would make 73 revolutions and the Haab 52, so that every 52 calendar years of 365 days one would return to the same date. A complete date in this 52-year cycle might be, for example, 2 1k 0 Pop (2 1k being the position of the day in the Tzolkin, 0 Pop the position in the Haab). Fifty-two years would pass before another 2 1k 0 Pop date returned.
It was expected that the world would end at the completion of a 52-year cycle. At this time, among the Mexica in the Valley of Mexico, all fires were extinguished, pregnant women were locked up lest they be turned into wild animals, children were pinched to keep them awake so that they would not turn into mice, and all pottery was broken in preparation for the end of the world. In the event the gods decided to grant man another 52 years of life on earth, however, a night time ceremony was held in which the populace followed the priests through the darkness over a causeway to the top of an old extinct volcano that rises abruptly from the floor of the basin of Mexico, known today as the Hill of the Star, the hill above Ixtapalapa. There, with all eyes on the stars, they awaited the passage of the Pleiades across the center of the heavens, which would announce the continuation of the world for another 52 years. When the precise moment came, a victim was quickly sacrificed by making a single gash in his chest and extracting the still palpitating heart. In the gory cavity the priests, with a fire drill, kindled a new flame that was quickly carried by torches across the lake to the temple in Tenochititlan, and from there to all temples and villages around the lake. This was known as the New Fire Ceremony among the Mexica, and in some way this same completion and renewal of each 52-year cycle was recognized by all Mesoamericans."[i]
This is not unlike how the end of the last millennium may have felt for many Christians or doomsday cult followers.
Our modern Western calendar was first introduced in Europe in 1582. It was based upon the Gregorian calendar, which calculated the Earth's orbit to take 365.25 days. This was 0.0003 of a day per year too much, but still exceptionally accurate for scientists living over 400 years ago.
The Mayan calendars were derived from those of their predecessors, the Olmec, whose culture dates back at least 3,000 years. Without the instruments of 16th century Europe, these Central American locals managed to calculate a solar year of 365.2420 days, just 0.0002 of a day short. More accurate than the Europeans, and much earlier.
The Long Count
A Mayan date utilises three calendars. The third calendar, known as the "long count", is a continuous record of days that starts over every 5000 years or so. The current Long Count began in 3114 BC. And it will end very soon.
A typical Mayan date looks like this:
12.18.16.2.6, 3 Cimi 4 Zotz
4 Zotz is the Haab date.
3 Cimi is the Tzolkin date.
12.18.16.2.6 is the Long Count date.
The basic unit is the kin (day), which is the last component of the Long Count. Going from right to left the remaining components are:
unial........1 unial = 20 kin = 20 days
tun..........1 tun = 18 unial = 360 days = approx. 1 year
katun.......1 katun = 20 tun = 7,200 days = approx. 20 years
baktun.....1 baktun = 20 katun = 144,000 days = approx. 394 years
The kin, tun, and katun are numbered from 0 to 19.
The unial are numbered from 0 to 17.
The baktun are numbered from 1 to 13.

The Long Count is a great cycle of 13 baktuns (roughly 5,126 years), where the use of 13 may again represent the growth of the moon from new to full. The current cycle began on 13.0.0.0.0 4 Ahau 8 Cumku which correlates to Aug. 13, 3114 BC.
In Mayan mythology each Long Count cycle is a world age in which the gods attempt to create pious and subservient creatures.
The First Age began with the creation of the Earth, and it had upon it vegetation and living beings. Unfortunately, because they lacked speech, the birds and animals were unable to pay homage to the gods and were destroyed. In the Second and Third Ages the gods created humans of mud and then wood, but these also failed to please and were wiped out. We are currently in the Fourth and Final Age, the age of the modern, fully functional human. Is it possible that these Ages referred to evolutionary change? If they did, then what might occur when the current age finishes on December 21, 2012?

Introduction and first post

2008-09-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

This blog is dedicated to every one of my friends who reside in tambaram. We can discuss any topic in this blog, from Cricket(both gully and international) to nick name of our friends.
I have been contemplating about the choice of the topic for our first discussion. But, the overwhelming response from our friends to start a thread on nick names and write about the Gang leader. Guess who? Its none other than our own "kona chitappu".
I will list out some names along with their knick names. The table is all yours to add any number if nick names

NAME KNICK NAME

Sasi kumar "kona chitappu"
Sham prasad "Maiyil"
Yogesh "Sappa Kallan"
Vigesh "Sappa kallan Junior"
Ranjith "Soona Paana"
Ranjith "Muunu koota muusa"
Sabu "Kalavaram"
Karthi (Pot 9) "Matti"
Thiruna "Mokaa Mohan" or "Rambam"
Rajesh "Pooran"
Mohan Ram "Poona"
Hariharan "Vaathu" or "Duck"