Kuwait Kerala Muslim Association Conducts Essay Competition
The Kuwait Kerala Muslim Association (KKMA)has inviteed community leaders, social workers and business wizards from Indian nationals living in Middle East, India or elsewhere to develop concrete and innovative proposals on the topic: "Building a Secure Future for NRIs - seeking Practical Solutions" A statement from Abdul Fathah Thayyil, Vice President, KKMA said the association invites participation in an International Essay Competition by responding to the two following questions:
1. What practical solutions would you propose to build a secure future for NRIs in gulf countries by investing their money collectively?
2. What Role for NRI organizations and how can they be transformed into an NRI Saving and Investment Society?
"Winning essays will be chosen for their originality, clarity and use of thoughtful yet concrete proposals for building a secure future. You are free to develop your essay in any way you find to be the most convincing. However, we invite you to make a critical use of analyses from major sources and cite examples of past successful ventures. Entrants are specifically requested to avoid general statements, and are asked to discuss specific experiences and develop concrete solutions that could be implemented," said the statement.
"Essays should be sent to the following address by not later than 30 May 2005: KKMA Essay Contest, P O Box 47959, Fahaheel, 64030 Kuwait. Email: contest@kkma.net, Fax: 965 4312559. KKMA is the largest non profit welfare organization of Indian nationals in Middle East. KKMA is planning to establish an Investment Club that will inculcate saving habits among its members," the statement said. "The Competition is a joint initiative of the KKMA and UAE Exchange Centre. The last date for receiving entries will be May 30, 2005. Winning essay will receive 'Innovative and Practical Proposal Contest Award' certificate and Rs. 10,000 cash prize at a special event held in Kuwait," it added..
April 6, 2005
Dubai ranks first in the Arab World and 18th worldwide in Digital Governance
Brig. Saeed bin Belailah stresses the need for harnessing the power of Information Technology to sustain a more successful society
April 06, 2005 The information infrastructure supporting Dubai’s social, economic and government activities is on par with the world’s leading cities according to a recent study. The emirate was ranked by Rutgers University (State University of New Jersey) 18th among the top 20 cities in terms of digital governance, first among its Arab peers that were included in the study.
The figures, published in the third volume of a Madar Research Special Report on “Dubai Knowledge Economy 2003-2008”, says that the Internet penetration rate in Dubai, which stands at 39 per cent, is slightly lower than those found in most advanced economies, but is relatively higher in comparison with general Internet usage in the developing countries.
Commenting on the study, Brigadier Saeed bin Belailah, Director, Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD) said: “The recognition earned by Dubai in the regional and international front is clear evidence that the collaborated efforts exerted by the different government departments in Dubai are reaping fruit. We are glad to know that we are moving on par with the highly advanced countries as far as technology is concerned. This fact reflects the far-sighted e-vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister.”
“Information technology has been universally recognized as the key foundation to increasing economic performance and bringing significant improvement in people’s lives. At DNRD, we are poised to face the challenge of establishing an e-Society in Dubai,” added Brig. bin Belailah. “In spite of all the significant achievements we have reached, DNRD continuously work on equipping its staff with the latest international practices and adopting state-of-the-art IT systems that increase speed and efficiency and enhance the economy.”
According to the study, Dubai’s key information and communication technology (ICT) indicators, particularly its mobile phone density and internet penetration are also comparable to those of key cities in the most developed countries. Dubai’s mobile phone density, pegged at 90 per cent, is higher than the average mobile phone density in Western Europe which varies between 80 and 82 per cent.
The recent Madar study also anticipates that the 20 per cent PC penetration rate in Dubai will increase as younger users, particularly university students, increasingly become dependant on PCs. Business expansion, as evidenced by the massive construction activities across the emirate and the influx of new business ventures, is also expected to contribute to the growth of PC use in Dubai.
“The fact that mobile phone penetration in Dubai far outweighs fixed line penetration is a reflection to the endeavour of the emirate to deploy the most recent technologies. We are committed to increase the IT spending per capita in Dubai, which is estimated to be $450 in 2003 in order to utilise the international advancements in the IT industry to further develop the growth of the emirate and improve the quality of life of its citizens and residents,” added Brig. bin Belailah.
On the other hand, the study concludes that Dubai’s IT spending is only 2.7 per cent- a percentage far below developed country IT spending averages, which range between 5-12 per cent.
“As per H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s directives, we aim to accomplish Dubai’s vision of creating a knowledge-based economy. In spite of all our remarkable progress, we firmly believe that there is still a long way to go in harnessing the power of Information Technology to sustain and develop a more successful society,” concluded Brig. bin Belailah.
APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR PORTUGUESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIPS
The Ministry of Human Resource Development has invited applications for the scholarships offered by the Government of Portugal for the academic year 2005-2006. The scholarships will be awarded to Indian nationals residing in India for the following categories : (i) one scholarship of nine months duration for postgraduate studies/research in the field of education. (ii) Two Research scholarships to post graduates in Portuguese Language and culture. (iii) Annual scholarship (8/9 months) to a teacher of Portuguese Language and culture at the university or secondary school level to attend a teacher’s training courses on Portuguese a foreign language, and (iv) Scholarships, of eight months duration, for pursuing Annual course in Portuguese Language and culture to the students enrolled in the course of Portuguese in Indian Universities.Details of eligibility conditions and other terms and conditions including proforma for application is available on www.education.nic.in .Interested candidates can send their applications to Scholarship Division, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Department of Secondary and Higher Education, by 21st April, 2005.Al Ghurair Giga Gold Refinery to attain full capacity production by third quarter of 2005
Refinery increasing high quality standards as it aims for ISO 17025 certification and membership of "Dubai Good Delivery"
April 5, 2005 Dubai Metals and Commodities Centre (DMCC), has announced that Al Ghurair Giga Gold refinery (GGG), the first gold refinery to commence operations in DMCC, will attain full capacity production of 100 tonnes of gold and
40 tonnes of silver, by the third quarter of 2005. GGG refinery is a state-of-the art, continuous process-based refinery,
that started commercial operations in October 2004. Marwan Bakir, Head of GGG said, "Currently we are increasing our
capacity in gold production and will reach full capacity production by the third quarter. We look forward to making rapid strides of progress over the coming months and strengthening Dubai's image as the centre for trade of gold and other precious metals.""We will fully utilise all our resources to maintain the highest standards of quality to meet the expectations of our customers, owners and employees.We are aiming to attain the ISO 17025 certification for our laboratory and also be accepted as Category Two member of the recently introduced "Dubai Good Delivery" process by the end of the year," he added. Al Ghurair Giga Gold refinery which has attained the ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001 certification, uses its refined gold for the production of 'Ten Tola Bar 999', '100 Grams 999', '1 Kg 995' and '1 Kg 999'. Earlier last month, GGG increased to two refining shifts supported by two shifts in value addition and laboratory department. They will be increasing their employee strength by recruiting more value addition operators, chemists and process engineers, which if demand requires, will allow the refinery to operate three shifts daily. "As with all licensed refineries DMCC will provide total support to the Al Ghurair Giga Gold refinery to enhance its operating efficiency and productivity. We share a mutually beneficial relationship and we have a common underlying objective of adhering to the highest global standards in product and service development. DMCC's planned market infrastructure, including free zone status, secure vault facilities, purpose-built refineries, workshops and assay facilities will further promote Dubai's trading efforts in gold and precious metals," said Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chief Operating Officer, DMCC.
The Dubai Metals and Commodities Centre is a strategic government initiative that integrates the refining, manufacturing and trading of gold in Dubai, as well as introducing the trading of other precious metals such as platinum, palladium and silver. DMCC is facilitating the development and expansion of the regional metals market by working with regional and
international partners.April 5, 2005
DMC Forces Employees to Use Public Transport System, Restrict Parking Space to Employees Below Grade III
By V.M.Sathish
All expatriate staff to use public bus sytem..UAE national Employees, especially woman Oppose the Move.
DUBAI - All the Government Departments in Dubai will introduce vehicle use restriction by employees below certain rank. As a bold step to control the growing traffic congestion that plague normal life in the city, the Dubai Municipality is going ahead with a plan to control private vehicle use by its 12,000 odd employees, majority of whom are asked to use the new high tech public bus system introduced by the Municipality. "Employees are given three months period to switch over to the public transport system and the Municipality will not go back in its bold decision to stop giving parking space to its employees up to certain Grade in the office premises," confirmed a senior Municipality official."It is part of the long term plan to implement parking regulation in all the government departments. After three months, most of the DMC employees will have to start using the public transport system arranged by the Municipality free of charge for its staff. This noble step will reduce growing pressure on parking space in the prime Diera area and reduce the number of vehicles on the road." Only about 100 employees, out of 12,000 DMC staff have opted for the public bus system, and the remaining are dilly dallying about their option.
"It is part of a broader plan adopted by the Dubai Municipality and other government departments not to allow employees below Grade III to use parking space. Since DMC is the pioneer organization which is a role model for other government departments, we decided to implement the decision first in DMC itself," he said. According to him, only 15 per cent of the total DMC workforce will be able to use their own private vehicles to travel between office and home. In case of emergency, there will be vehicles available for use by the staff. Using the public transport buses will also reduce employee stress from driving through heavy traffic.
The DMC has plans to introduce a road toll system to check the number of vehicles entering the city roads from all other Emirates - Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quaim and Abu Dhabi. There is also a plan to start a multibillion high tech railway network to control traffic congestion in the city. "All expatriate employees, upto a certain grade and majority of national employees will not be allowed to use parking space for their private vehicles," added DMC official sources. The official notice send by DMC officials has met with strong protest from the local citizens, especially the female employees working with the Municipality.
"A section of DMC employees is opposing the move because of their mindset. Some feel that it is below their dignity to use public transport system," added DMC sources. However, the issue is serious for women, especially pregnant woman employees, who will have difficulty in traveling through public buses. "Employees who travel by public transport system free of cost don't have to worry about getting delayed due to traffic congestion, because when they enter the bus in the morning, their duty card is punched. Even if the bus comes late by 2 hours, they don't have to face any problems," added DMC sources.
Special luxury coaches have been pressed into service as a free public transport facility for the staff from different areas of Dubai as well as from the neighbouring emirates of Sharjah and Ajman. These buses transport the employees from and to the main office free of cost, said the DMC official. According to Mohammed Ahmed Al Baal, in charge of the staff bus service, the service is getting huge response from employees as a good number of employees have started registering their names for using the buses. "As of now, 110 employees have registered and the registration is still on. Due to heavy booking, we are planning to press into service another coach from Sharjah," said Al Baal. He said that three buses are in service to different areas of Dubai such as Al Towar, Satwa and Rashidiya. More services are in the offing to cover Madinat Bader, Mirdiff, Al Dhiyafa and Karama areas. "Pick up points depend on the request of the employees and the number of employees in each area," Al Baal said.The Al Towar bus starts from the DM Staff Accommodation, while the Satwa bus beside Safa Park opposite Union Co-operative Society and the Rashidiya bus from Rashidiya Central Market. The Sharjah bus starts from King Faisal Mosque and the Ajman bus from Sheikh Rashid Grand Mosque opposite Old Palace. Al Baal said the starting of these buses for the employees is contributing positively in reducing the suffocative of traffic on Dubai roads, strain of driving for long periods, usage of more fuel, and traffic accidents. The service also contributes in making excellent employees devoid of strains, creates a spirit of participation among employees and the Municipality becomes a role model for others. In addition to this, the service is also aimed at public good.
ICDL GCC Foundation lauds H.H. Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum IT
Education Project (ITEP) plans to boost IT literacyApril 05, 2005 The ICDL GCC Foundation, the governing body of ICDL programme in the Gulf States and the regional arm of the ECDL Foundation, has lauded the contribution of the H.H. Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, IT Education Project
(ITEP) aimed at raising the IT literacy levels in the education sector of the UAE. ITEP was commended during the opening of the largest testing centre for ICDL Certification in Dubai. The Centre works under the auspices of ITEP and is located in its premises in Knowledge Village, Dubai. The ITEP-ICDL certification centre is equipped with 30 state of the art computers that enable the simultaneous testing of this number of trainees at the same time. The centre is staffed with experts who will provide the ecessary technical support and troubleshooting advice. Lauding the centre, Jamil Ezzo, Director General, ICDL GCC Foundation said: "ITEP is playing a dynamic role as our partner in spreading IT literacy in the UAE, especially among school teachers and education field administrators."Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Director, ITEP, thanked ICDL GCC Foundation for their proactive support and cooperation in achieving the strategic goal of spreading IT literacy and making it an important part of UAE social life. Speaking about the ITEP-ICDL certification centre, Dr. Karam said: "A principle part of ITEP is based on the co-operation in establishing the necessary
basics and criterias needed to spread IT literacy in the UAE. ITEP is trying to achieve this goal by supplying the best resources, including human resources, expertise and most up to date equipment which support the direction of ITEP's strategic goals." ITEP and ICDL GCC Foundation are already working together to implement the directive of HH. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defense Minister, to spread IT literacy among the 6000 teachers and employees of Dubai Educational Zone, through certifying them with ICDL.A year ago, ITEP signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ICDL GCC Foundation to enhance computer literacy in the UAE, using the internationally recognised ICDL syllabus and standards, initially focusing on teachers and employees of the education sector. The MoU has achieved great success within a short period. "The ICDL GCC Foundation was created to manage the ICDL program in the GCC states, and has since been trying relentlessly to spread IT literacy and computer competence by working directly with government organisations and policymakers," concluded Ezzo.
The Trials of Ibn Battuta - In Search of a Hero Can you handle it? Are you worthy?
Ibn Battuta Mall, opening April 13th, is based on the journey of the famous Arabian traveller, adventurer and scholar, Ibn Battuta. The mall promises to offer visitors a unique shopping and entertainment destination and to cement this great beginning, the Mall will create a competition unlike any other. The Trials of Ibn Battuta will begin with the help of Dubai Radio Network. UAE residents will be requested to vote for someone in their lives who they feel deserves to be nominated as a Hero, the kind of individual who truly embodies the essence of a survivor.
Seven of the Radio stations on the Dubai Radio Network will participate in the competition, representing the many cultures of the UAE. Nominations can be made either by e-mail or SMS and the nominator must give the name, age, gender and a valid and compelling reason as to why they themselves or their nominee deserve to be a radio station hero. Participants must be between the ages of 18 - 35 yrs old, they must also be fit and able to compete in physical challenges. Furthermore, they must be valid UAE Residents living in the country for at least one year. The closing date for receiving nominations will be 9 pm on 5th of April 2005.
Three contestants from each station will be selected by the Radio Jockeys on the 8th of April by sorting out the many e-mails and SMS messages sent in by listeners. Each contestant will then be interviewed on the air from April 9th - 11th, giving listeners the opportunity to vote by SMS for the most deserving contestant. DRN will then select seven of the most heroic nominees, one from each station.
Once each of the seven radio stations has nominated their Radio station hero the true Trials of Ibn Battuta begins. Six competitions will take place from 14th - 19th April 2005, which will test the competitor's skill and ability to think and act quickly. The challenges will range from Sinking Ships, Perilous Oasis, Repelling Invaders, Riddle of the Sphinx, Water Way to Travel and finally the King's Ransom where participants will be asked to race against time to outwit, out smart and out play their fellow opponents.
Prizes to be won include Dhs 10,000 for being selected as one of the 7 participants; a further Dhs 10,000 will be given to the winner of any of the six competitions. The final prize money will be a whopping Dhs 100,000, which will be determined by the contestant who racks up the most points through the overall competition. This exciting event will take place at Ibn Battuta Mall, located adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road between interchanges 5 and 6 and will be broadcast over the Dubai Radio Network reaching residents from all walks of life in four different languages. Ibn Battuta Mall, it's the destination that makes the difference. Let the Games Begin!!
Ibn Battuta Mall, A Nakheel Project, was conceived to celebrate Dubai's increasing role as one of the world's top shopping destinations. Located adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road between interchanges 5 and 6, the Mall combines retail, entertainment, restaurants and family activities all within a uniquely themed environment that is designed to reflect the unique combination of various heritages and cosmopolitan lifestyle that is the very essence of Dubai. The architectural inspiration behind the unique design of the shopping mall is based on the travels of the legendary Arab explorer Ibn Battuta. The mall is segmented into six distinct architectural zones, representing key destinations visited by Ibn Battuta. Ibn Battuta Mall features a 21 screen cinema Megaplex, including the UAE's first IMAX cinema, themed garden areas and a uniquely designed food court.
Largest ICDL Accredited Testing Centre in Dubai is Inaugurated
ICDL GCC Foundation lauds H.H. Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum IT Education Project (ITEP) plans to boost IT literacy
April 05, 2005 The ICDL GCC Foundation, the governing body of ICDL programme in the Gulf States and the regional arm of the ECDL Foundation, has lauded the contribution of the H.H. Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, IT Education Project (ITEP) aimed at raising the IT literacy levels in the education sector of the UAE.
ITEP was commended during the opening of the largest testing centre for ICDL Certification in Dubai. The Centre works under the auspices of ITEP and is located in its premises in Knowledge Village, Dubai. The ITEP-ICDL certification centre is equipped with 30 state of the art computers that enable the simultaneous testing of this number of trainees at the same time. The centre is staffed with experts who will provide the necessary technical support and troubleshooting advice.
Lauding the centre, Jamil Ezzo, Director General, ICDL GCC Foundation said: "ITEP is playing a dynamic role as our partner in spreading IT literacy in the UAE, especially among school teachers and education field administrators." Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Director, ITEP, thanked ICDL GCC Foundation for their proactive support and cooperation in achieving the strategic goal of spreading IT literacy and making it an important part of UAE social life. Speaking about the ITEP-ICDL certification centre, Dr. Karam said: "A principle part of ITEP is based on the co-operation in establishing the necessary basics and criterias needed to spread IT literacy in the UAE. ITEP is trying to achieve this goal by supplying the best resources, including human resources, expertise and most up to date equipment which support the direction of ITEP's strategic goals."
New 12-story building in Al Nahda area licensed
Dubai Municipality has recently issued the license to construct a 12-story building in Al Nahda area at a cost of Dhs35 million.Eng. Khalid Mohammed Saleh, Director of Buildings Department in the Municipality said the proposed building would house residential apartments and commercial shops.The building will have a basement, ground floor, mezzanine floor and 12 upper stories. The total built-up area will be 224,232.4 square feet while the plot area is 27,652 square feet.Mr. Saleh added that the tower would have a total of 48 one-bedroom apartments and 70 two-bedroom apartments. The parking lot can accommodate 127 cars.
17th GETEX brings together over 400 education providers from 35 countries
April 4, 2005 The 4 day 17th GETEX (Gulf Education & Training Exhibition), which opens its doors on Tuesday, April 5, 2005, at Dubai International Exhibition Centre, has assembled more than 400 higher education providers from 35 countries across the world.
The show hosts over 10 country pavilions, with Italy and South Africa marking their debut at the forum. Other country pavilions include Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. The Indian presence has doubled in strength since last year’s event.
“GETEX has grown in size and scope each year, attracting newer countries, covering wider subjects and presenting novel dimensions to the education scenario in the Gulf region. Today, the focus of education has also widened, with a thrust on quality and an underlying emphasis to create a positive difference through education. This edition of GETEX will serve as an ideal platform for academicians and professionals to discuss various aspects of education and training in an evolving society,” said Anselm Godinho, Managing Director, IC&E, organisers of GETEX.
Another significant feature is the extensive presence of higher education providers from the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries; providing strong indication of the growing stature of the education industry in the region. Among the big names out in force in this segment are the Dubai-based Knowledge Village; the Qatar Aeronautical College and the Qatar Foundation For Education, Science & Community Development; the Bahrain based Royal College of Surgeons (a campus of the famous Irish medical college of the same name); as well as a strong Omani, Turkish, Jordanian and Iranian presence. For the first time, GETEX will also host a university from Tunisia.
In the GETEX spotlight will be undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Medicine; Business Studies; Engineering; eLearning; and Media & Creative Arts. In the process of choosing the course most suited to their requirements, the students will be supported by the presence of Counsellors in the fields of Academics, Life Choices and Careers. Meanwhile, visitors will have access to a minefield of information on practical admissions related issues, such as the New SAT, TOEFL, GMAT strategies and writing PhD Proposals.
In the training segment of the show, besides exhibitors providing short and long term professional courses, of interest to visitors, especially Management and HR professionals, will be seminars including topics such as Enhancing People Development Skills In The Supply-Chain Management; Performance Measurement: The Critical Issues To Get It To Work; and How Management Can Contribute To The Overall Company Strategy.
The 17th GETEX has attracted a wide range of partners keen to make a contribution to the growing education industry in the Middle East. The show is being organised under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Education. It is supported by the British Council and Dubai Knowledge Village. As media partners, Campus Journal, AME Info and Bayt.com are relaying the message about the importance of seeking quality higher education.
Clarendon Parker, The Change Associates and Educational Consultancy Services make up the team of counsellors available to students under the “Planning Higher Education vis-à-vis Career Objectives” initiative. British Institute of Learning Development will lead the drive to improve awareness about learning difficulties, as well as provide parental and academic strategies that can support a child with such difficulties. The 17th GETEX will be open to visitors from April 5 to 8. Entrance to the exhibition and to the seminars is free; as is consultation with available counsellors.
Virgin Megastore and Union Properties Launch Dream Home Opportunity Virgin Megastore and Union Properties join in 'dream scheme' to give away 0.75 million Dirham luxury apartment in Dubai's newest residential development
Dubai, 5th April 2005 Virgin Megastore, the region's largest source of entertainment, today announced the opportunity for a lucky Virgin shopper to walk away with a luxury apartment at Union Properties' UPTOWN Mirdiff. The Virgin 'Stop dreaming start moving' promotion is being managed in partnership with Union Properties and supported by Samsung, Dubai 92 and Mastercard and will be open to customers in both the UAE and Kuwait, who will have an opportunity to win the apartment, valued at over 0.75 million Dirhams, with every AED 150 spent in any of the Virgin Megastore outlets.
"This, without a doubt, constitutes the biggest dream scheme we've ever done here in the region," said Jean Claude Torbey, regional director, Virgin Megastore, Middle East & North Africa. "We're very focused on driving the best value for Virgin's customers, by not only being the ultimate source for entertainment merchandise, but also in helping them make dreams come true. As such, Union Properties were the ideal partner for our promotion as we are conscious that we always have to offer quality to our customers"
Simon Azzam, CEO, Union Properties said: "We're very glad to be teaming up with Virgin Megastore to give one lucky winner a key to a luxury apartment in one of our exciting new developments, UPTOWN Mirdiff. The development, built on 23 hectares, includes retail shopping, dinning and entertainment areas, park areas and a primary school all this serving the residents. For us, the Virgin brand has a clear synergy with our own brand, in that we both stand for quality and service in our respective industries. Virgin has always been very active with innovative promotions, giving their customers greater value for their money. We're delighted to partner in Virgin's biggest dream scheme ever in the region."
Customers can also triple their chances of winning through any of the following methods: if they are currently Union Properties tenants, if they pay using their MasterCard or if they purchase a Samsung product. The promotion will run concurrently in the UAE and Kuwait for a period of two months as of Tuesday, 29th March. The one-bedroom luxury apartment will be given to the winner on a 99-year leasehold basis to own or sell.
MALE-FEMALE RATIO 957/1000 RURAL AND 932/1000 URBAN
New Delhi - The latest round of National Sample Survey on Household Consumer Expenditure and Employment/Unemployment situation reveals, that the country had 957 females per 1000 males in the rural areas while 932 females per 1000 males in the urban sector. The average household size in rural India was 5.0 including 1.8 children per household. In urban India, the average household size was 4.5 with 1.3 children.The 59th round conducted by the National Sample Survey Organisation, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation during January-December 2003, also revealed that the average rural household size declined steadily from 6.2 in the lowest Monthly Per Capita Consumer Expenditure (MPCE) class, to 3.8 in the highest. In urban areas, the decline was from 6.6 to 2.9. This indicates that much of the variation in household size with MPCE was accounted for by the under-15 age group. The average number of members under-15 per rural household also declined from 3.1 in the lowest MPCE class to 0.8 in the highest class. In urban India, the average number of “children” per household was about 3.3 in the lowest MPCE class and 0.4 in the highest bracket.
The all India rural average MPCE was Rs.554. At State level the lowest average MPCE for rural areas was Rs.398 (Orissa) and the highest was Rs.981 (Kerala). The average rural MPCE was below Rs.450 in three states, between Rs.450 and Rs.650 in ten states and above Rs.650 in three states. Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal registered lower average MPCE than the all India average, both for rural and urban population, the survey adds.
Iran: Judiciary Should Admit Blogger Abuse Risk of Cover-up in Official Report on Torture of Internet Journalists
(New York, April 5, 2005) -- The upcoming report by Iran’s powerful judiciary about the mistreatment and torture of bloggers and internet journalists in custody must begin a process of full accountability for serious human rights abuse, Human Rights Watch said today.In January 2004, the head of the judiciary, Ayatollah Mahmud Hashemi Shahrudi, ordered the formation of an internal investigating committee to probe bloggers’ claims of torture and ill-treatment. At a press conference on March 29, judiciary spokesman Jamal Karimirad said that its findings have been presented to Ayatollah Shahrudi and that a final report will be made public shortly.
Human Rights Watch urged the authorities not to whitewash the role of security forces and judiciary agents. "The decision to launch an internal investigation may be a promising first step -- or it may be yet another cover-up," said Joe Stork, Washington director of Human Right Watch’s Middle East and North Africa Division. "We’ve documented enough mistreatment of bloggers and internet journalist to know that Iran has a serious problem here. The question is whether they’ll admit it – and do something about it."
Between August and November 2004, judiciary agents operating on behalf of Tehran’s chief prosecutor, Saeed Mortazavi, detained more than 20 bloggers and internet journalists. After their release some of the detainees testified before a presidential commission, detailing their mistreatment while in detention. Hanif Mazroi, Massoud Ghoreishi, Fereshteh Ghazi, Arash Naderpour and Mahbobeh Abasgholizadeh appeared in front of the commission on December 25, 2004. On January 1, Omid Memarian and Ruzbeh Mir Ebrahimi also provided accounts of their ill-treatment.
Memarian and Mir Ebrahimi testified that they had been forced by their interrogators to write confession letters as a condition for their release. All former detainees who appeared in front of the presidential commission provided details of their physical and psychological torture, solitary confinement, and interrogations into their private lives. Presidential commission member Mohammad Ali Abtahi later made the testimonies public.
"These brave young journalists took a great risk by exposing abuses committed against them," said Stork. "In particular, it took a lot of courage for Memarian and Mir Ebrahimi to reveal the truth behind their forced confession letters." Human Rights Watch urged Ayatollah Shahrudi to guarantee the integrity of the investigation and put an immediate end to persecution of bloggers and writers by the judiciary. The Iranian authorities should initiate criminal proceedings against those who are responsible for torture and ill-treatment in custody, Human Rights Watch said.
Iraq Reconstruction Fund Invested on Wall Street-No Comment from Pentagon Officials
THREE DAY STATE MOURNING ON THE SAD DEMISE OF THE POPE
A three-day State mourning will be observed throughout the country from today as a mark of respect to Pope John Paul II who passed away in the early morning hours today. During the period of State mourning, the National Flag will be flown half mast throughout India where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment. A Home Ministry Notification has also requested the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations to take action accordingly.More
Kerala Governor, CM mourn Pope's death Pope John Paul II is no more -KGB ordered Pope's murder, say documents
My God - they killed him!"Since there's a lot of speculation these days about who will succeed Pope John Paul II, it seems a good time to recall the circumstances of the last papal succession. Because Luciani Albini, Pope John Paul I, was almost certainly murdered, by an international network of fascists and money launderers, with ties to far-right elements within military and intelligence agencies. Full Report
A Biography of Pope John Paul II - Obituary of Pope John Paul II
Iraq Reconstruction Fund Invested on Wall Street-No Comment from Pentagon Officials
Since there's a lot of speculation these days about who will succeed Pope John Paul II, it seems a good time to recall the circumstances of the last papal succession. Because Luciani Albini, Pope John Paul I, was almost certainly murdered, by an international network of fascists and money launderers, with ties to far-right elements within military and intelligence agencies. Full Report
O V Vijayan Passed away..More
KM Mate of the week
KGB ordered Pope's murder, say documents
THREE DAY STATE MOURNING ON THE SAD DEMISE OF THE POPE
A three-day State mourning will be observed throughout the country from today as a mark of respect to Pope John Paul II who passed away in the early morning hours today. During the period of State mourning, the National Flag will be flown half mast throughout India where it is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment. A Home Ministry Notification has also requested the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations to take action accordingly. The President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has condoled the passing away of His Holiness Pope John Paul II. In a message to The College of Cardinals, The Holy See, Vatican City, the President said:“The demise of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II was received with deep shock and profound sorrow, by the people of India who considered him a champion of world peace and harmony. His was an endearing voice of reason against all forms of intolerance, inhumanity and injustice. His ceaseless efforts to advocate the cause of human values will always be remembered as the beacon of hope against the daunting challenges of today’s world. We fondly recollect his visits to India during which he always spoke in support for India’s secular values and our tradition of tolerance and religious inclusiveness. His unending encouragement of human values endeared him to Indians of all faiths.In this hour of grief, I express to Your Excellencies, my deep sorrow and sympathy of the government and the people of India.” The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, today visited the Embassy of the Holy See (Vatican Embassy) to convey his condolences on the passing away of His Holiness Pope John Paul II. He also signed the Condolence Book kept at the Embassy.Book about the Death of John Paul I
Yet another book has been written on the suspicious death of Pope John Paul I, this time by a Spanish priest named Father Jesus Lopez Saez. Building upon the work of David Yallop, Father Saez writes: After almost three years of research, David Yallop wrote, in his book In God's Name (1984), that the precise circumstances attending the discovery of the body of John Paul I "eloquently demonstrate that the Vatican practiced a disinformation campaign." The Vatican told one lie after another: "Lies about little things, lies about big things. All these lies had but one purpose: to disguise the fact that Albino Luciani, Pope John Paul I, had been assassinated." Pope Luciani "received the palm of martyrdom because of his convictions."
Pope John Paul II is no more
Vatican: A statement issued by the Vatican stated on Saturday that 84 year old, Pope John Paul II, the polish Pontiff, had passed away at 1937 GMT (0110 IST) in his Vatican apartment. He had led the Roman Catholic Church for the past 26 years and had been the religious leader of over 1.1 billion Catholics. A large crowd of more than 70,000 gathered at the St.Petersquare near the pope's apartment. Pope had been suffering from illness during the past few days. He had been affected by Parkinson disease and his health had been deteriorating rapidly in the past few days. During the day, he was having high fever and prayers had been going on all over the world for the Pope. On Friday, he had a heart attack and his kidneys also failed according to reports from Vatican. He was being given food through tube. "We all feel like orphans this evening", Undersecretary of State Archbishop Leonardo Sandri said. His funeral rites would be held by the end of this week. Mourning the death of the Pope, President George Bush said that 'the world has lost a champion of peace and freedom with the death of the pope'. In a statement, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan expressed his grief at the death of the pope and referred to him as 'a tireless advocate of peace'.
Pope John Paul II was born on the 18 May 1920 as Karol Wojtyla at Wadowice, Poland and was ordained as priest on Nov 1 1946. He took Doctorate in theology in 1948 at the Angelicum in Rome, Italy and served as Parish priest in the Krakow diocese from 1948 to 1951. He Studied philosophy at the Jagiellonian University at Krakow and taught social ethics at the Krakow Seminary from 1952 to 1958 and in 1956 became a professor at the University of Lublin. He was appointed as bishop by Venerable Pope Pius XII in Krakow on 4 July 1958 and was appointed Archbishop by Pope Paul VI appointed him Archbishop of Krakow on 30 December 1963 and was appointed as a Cardinal on 26 June 1967. He published his famous work Love and Responsibility in 1960 and also played a very important role in the formulation of the Declaration on Religious Freedom. He ascended as Pope on 16th October 1978 and became the first non-Italian pope in 455 years since Adrian VI. He is the most traveled pope in history having visited a great many countries in his period of papacy and had consecrated each place he visited to the Blessed Virgin Mary. -Keralamonitor.com
Ambiente Arabia 2005 to host free seminars for design professionals and buyersLeading artists and designers from the U.K to discuss trendsin interior décor
April 3, 2005 Ambiente Arabia 2005, the upcoming trade and consumer show for interior accessories, home-ware and gifts items has announced free daily seminars for professionals in the design and interiors industries. IIR, the exhibition's organisers have partnered with leading artists and designers from the U.K, all part of the British European Design Group (BEDG) to host seminars and discuss the latest trends in interior décor every evening at the show. The seminar speakers along with other artists and designers from the BEDG will exhibiting under the 'Visions of Beauty' pavilion at Ambiente Arabia (April 11-14, 2005, Dubai International Exhibition Centre). The seminars will cover topics ranging from Glass & Ceramics, Wall & Floor Coverings, Home Textiles and Lighting.
Commented Geoffrey Booy, Exhibitions Director of IIR Middle East, organisers of the show, "Ambiente Arabia's is a showcase of premium interior design accessories from across the world. The seminars will enable industry professionals and the public to learn about the latest trends in several design fields from the most influential contemporary artists of today, and make better buying decisions."
On the first day, art historian and designer Tilmann Mellinghoff will discuss 'The Influence of Art in Interiors' and designer Finn Stone will talk about furniture and interior design accessories in his lecture 'From Art To Furniture'. Stone's sculptural chairs and furniture pieces are sold by auction houses such as Bonhams and Sothebys. The second day will feature 'Innovation In Glass In Architecture And Interior Design' where glass artist and Royal College of Art (RCA) lecturer George Papadopoulos will throw light on his unique technique - shattering stained laminated glass panels - to create breathtaking installations. Attendees will also be updated on 'Innovation In Interior Lighting' by unconventional designer Neil Musson. A Master graduate from RCA, Musson's illustrious body of work includes the highest, largest chandelier in the world, a twenty metre installation at a hotel in Warsaw. Contemporary lighting expert Ali Siahvoshi will also be talking about the use of existing materials and products to create innovative sources of light. Ali Siahvoshi's work has been widely publicised in the UK, Japan, Germany and Europe in the print and television media. His umbrella chandelier will be put into production in 2005 by Anthologie Quartett, the leading design gallery producer in Germany.
Day three will focus on 'Artist Glass For Contemporary Tableware' by glass artists Ed Burke and Michael Ruh. Burke has been creating handmade table ware and interior design accessories as well as limited edition artist glass for almost two decades using traditional methods of glassblowing, while Ruh is well-known for his contemporary hand-made glass chandeliers. Also featured is innovative ceramic designer Hanna Tonek Bonnett who will talk about 'Artist Ceramics For Collectors'.
The final day of the exhibition (April 14) will see Camille Bodie of 55MAX update attendees on 'World Photography For New Interior Design.55Max have taken up the work of picture researchers in the world's most famous libraries to present a selection of subjects and artistic approaches that is as unique as it is versatile ranging from black and white architectural imagery to landscapes. 55Max have also perfected the technique of reproducing photographic images on canvas, acrylic and ceramic tiles to add a very different decorative dimension.
Lastly, Ibrahim Dualeh of TANZO, a company specialising in oil burners will speak about the 'The Oil Burner Reinvented'. TANZO is well-known for its unique burners using modern materials such as steel, slate and heatproof glass with the latest technologies to ensure full safety. Ambiente Arabia is for trade only during the day and opens to the public in the evenings between 5-9 pm. Ambiente Arabia, organised by IIR Exhibitions caters to the Middle East's corporate giftware and homeware industries. The trade exhibition features regional and international manufacturers of interior accents, house ware, giftware and interior supply services. The show is being held from 11 to 14 April, 2005 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC) and is also open to consumers in the evening. IIR Exhibitions, the organizer of the show, has over the last 20 years evolved into a dynamic firm with a global network of companies doing business in over 44 countries, and is recognized today as the world's largest knowledge and skills transfer company. With unrivalled local market knowledge and experience, IIR adds value to exhibitions by working with, and supporting the industries it serves.
The British European Design Group is a non-profit making organisation founded in 1991 to promote the commercial export potential of contemporary design, design services and education from Great Britain in the UK's key export markets of Germany, Continental Europe and North America and more recently China. The BEDG has been in the forefront of building up the British based creative talent to small and medium sized businesses capable to compete in the global market place relying on innovation, services and luxury consumer goods rather than mass-production. On the cultural side the BEDG initiates and organises major curated exhibitions showcasing the multicultural creative potential emanating from the United Kingdom.
DTCM organised study tour for Saudi travel agents Visit helps them enlarge their knowledge about Dubai
Over 7 per cent growth in Saudi guests to Dubai hotels in 2004
April 3, 2005 The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) recently assisted the visit of 12 travel agents from Saudi Arabia's port city of Jeddah and one representative from Qatar Airways who were in Dubai to acquaint themselves with its numerous attractions. The visiting group toured some beach properties, five and four-star city hotels and hotel apartments for site inspections in order to get a better understanding and knowledge of the amenities available. In addition, they were taken on a city tour and a Dhow cruise by the Department.The DTCM Manager Missions, Mr. Hamad bin Mejren, said: "The visit, which was made possible with the assistance of Qatar Airways, was a great success. The travel agents, who were on their first visit to Dubai, were impressed with Dubai and the wonderful developments taking place. The travel agents also visited the DTCM Head Office where they were received by DTCM Executive Missions, Mr. Abdullah bin Sowaidan, who presented them with souvenirs. He also gave them a presentation on Dubai and briefed the group about the travel and tourism facilities. In addition, they were given DTCM flyers and brochures.The number of Dubai hotel establishment guests from Saudi Arabia has seen a year-on-year increase. Dubai hotels recorded seven percent growth in Saudi guests in the year 2004 with nearly half a million staying with the Dubai properties. This growth reflects the growing bonds between the two AGCC member-states.
Jafza to participate in Rebuild Iraq 2005 exhibition in Jordan
Free Zone considers key incentives to Iraqi businesses for rehabilitation of industry sector in Iraq
April 3, 2005
Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza) has announced their participation in Rebuild Iraq 2005- the Second International Trade Exhibition for Rebuilding of Iraq to be held from April 4 -7, 2005 in Amman, Jordan.
The show, which is in the second year running, is a highly specialised show that focuses on the rebuilding of Iraq's critical infrastructure in electricity, water, oil, health, transportation, agriculture, and telecommunications sectors. The show is also the central rally point for buyers, manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors, as it gives them direct access to decision makers from government bodies, organisations and companies who are involved in the economic rebirth of Iraq.
Commenting on the participation, Abdalla Al Banna, Marketing Manager, Jafza said; "The prospects for growth in Iraq is unprecedented, as key stake holders from all over the world have understood the vast economic
potential of the country. Reconstruction of Iraq is top priority for the countries in the region and the world community at large, as its immediate beneficiaries will be the millions of Iraqis, who will see a significant improvement
in the quality of their lives.""We have identified the important role the industry sector plays in Iraq, and Jafza is rightly positioned to provide facilities and incentives for this sector in the Middle East and the GCC region. Visitors and exhibitors alike would be able to witness the offerings of Jafza, some of which that are aimed exclusively for nurturing Iraqi businesses and providing
support for Iraqi businessmen who want to do business with the rest of the world," he added. More than 1000 exhibitors in Building and Construction; Oil and Gas; Municipal Services and Security; Hospital and Health; IT and Communications; Education, Industry, Agriculture, Food Technologies and Products from over 40
countries from Europe, America, South Asia Middle East and the Far East have confirmed their participation at the exhibition.Currently there are more than 600 Iraqi companies operating in Jafza and 15 of these companies will be participating in the exhibition. "Through our support and participation in the rebuilding exhibition, Jafza has once again demonstrated its commitment to the Middle East in leading the way in contributing to the progress of the region," said Al Banna.
"Jafza through our strategic positioning right at the commercial heart of the GCC region is in the position to offer outstanding services to companies and organisations which are taking a lead role in the socio-economic
revival of Iraq." Jafza offers a range of advantages to companies who plan to set up operations in the zone, like simple administrative procedures, zero duties on all import and export goods and machineries within the free zone, modern
communication facilities and excellent support services. In addition, Jafza recently moved into the next level of diversification by launching the South Zone, which has eight specific industry clusters like Digital Valley,
Construction Square and Chemical & Plastic Field to cater to the requirements of various industrial segments.
