Secretary, Information Technology, Inaugurates 'Thinkshop on Next Gen MCA21'
THIS FUTURISTIC PROJECT BEING DESIGNED TO MEET EMERGING BUSINESS NEEDS
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11:24 IST
Shri Jainder Singh, Union IT Secretary, inaugurated a half-day ‘Thinkshop on next Gen MCA21’ here today at India Habitat Centre. The Thinkshop was organized by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs with a view to further evolve its flagship e-Governance project, theMCA21 into Next Gen MCA21 so that it is able to meet the needs of the future. Ministry of Corporate Affairs' MCA21 was the first project launched under National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) and has proved to be a major step forward and catalyst for promoting citizen centric service delivery mechanism and has created easily accessible interfaces, devoid of harassment and corruption, minimizing the waste of time and inconvenience of the public. As a result of MCA21, the procedures like approval of name, registration of a company, change of name of the company, issue of certified documents, annual filings, inspection of public documents which earlier used to take several days are being delivered quickly. Popularity of the project can be judged from the fact that the MCA portal receives 1.7 million hits a day. The project has ushered a new era in corporate governance interaction.
In his inaugural speech the Secretary IT said that MCA21 is an excellent example of the kind of initiatives that are needed to meet with the challenges of our growing economy. Our rapid pace of growth is putting immense work pressure on current institutional structures, current ways of functioning, and current ways of managing information and current regulatory practices, he said. Mr. Jainder Singh said that this coupled with heightened expectations of the stakeholders on account of success of MCA21 has created an urgent need to evolve further to meet the pressure and expectations. He hoped the Next Gen MCA21 will be able to achieve this goal.
Secretary IT referred to the “Ease of Doing Business” rankings 2008, released by the World Bank in which India has been ranked 120th out of 178 countries. He said this is an indication of the hurdles the entrepreneurs are facing in setting up and doing business in India. Addressing this problem requires multi-pronged strategy, which should include improving the quality of regulation, improving policy formulation processes and creating a healthy business environment by streamlining the interaction and improving interface between government and business, cutting out the redundancies in procedures and emphasizing immediate and efficient delivery of services. He hoped that Next Gen MCA21 will help India climb high on the future “Ease of Doing Business” rankings.
The Thinkshop was originally to be inaugurated by Shri K. M. Chandrashekar, Union Cabinet Secretary, but he couldn't attend the function due to his preoccupation with the Cabinet meeting held in the morning today.
Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Shri Anurag Goel highlighted the thought process that has gone into conceptualizing the Next Gen MCA21 and said it is being designed to meet the needs of the future. He said his Ministry considers partnership between the Government and corporates most essential for economic growth and good corporate governance. He invited top level corporates, professionals, IT experts etc. to partner with his Ministry in the series of e-Governance initiatives that are being planned. Shri Goel said that initiative for embarking upon Next Gen MCA is not for an incremental improvement in MCA21, but under it the Ministry would like to achieve a Quantum jump by bringing in concepts and elements which do not exist in MCA21 today. The architecture of Next Generation MCA21 should make it possible to take up effective regulation and enforcement through at all stages, including inspections, investigations and prosecutions. Secretary said the Next Gen MCA21 should be able to provide a single regulatory portal for business. It should be linked internally to various regulatory Ministries, individual regulators etc., so that a single B2G&R (Business to Government & Regulation) window is available to the business, capable of dealing with tomorrow’ business requirements, accounting systems, reporting systems etc, like multiple balance sheet, CSR reports etc.
Shri Kiran Karnik, former President NASSCOM in his Address said that MCA21 has brought in lot of transparency in the sphere of corporate affairs and has helped all the stakeholders; not only private sector and the government but also the public at large. He said that Next Gen efforts should concentrate on something totally new, which is not just mere extension of the present programme but leads to a total change in the very thought process. Shri Karnik said this will also help in compliance of rules and regulations too. He said MCA21 project of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs is an example of how public- private partnership should be implemented.
Sh Karnik also chaired the deliberation session. The Thinkshop was attended by leading corporate personalities and experts in e-Governance.
( Source:PIB)
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
CUMPULSORY VERIFICATION OF TENENTS -PUBLIC VIEW ASKED FOR
Gangtok,27th August 2008
In order to ensure continued peace and security in the State, the State Government has proposed to enact a law for the compulsory verification of all tenants and domestic and professional helps except in respect of those falling under the exempted category.
2. Draft of The Sikkim Tenants and Domestic and Professional Helps (Compulsory Verification) Act, 2008 has been placed on the State Government website www.sikkim.gov.in for general information.
3. The State Government has deemed it appropriate to have the views of the
members of the general public before the proposed law is enacted.
4. All those whishing to make any comments or suggestions in respect of the proposed legislation are requested to address the same to the “Home Secretary, Government of Sikkim, Tashiling Secretariat, Gangtok” or email at “home-sik@nic.in” within one month form the date of publication of this notice.
IPR RELEASE
In order to ensure continued peace and security in the State, the State Government has proposed to enact a law for the compulsory verification of all tenants and domestic and professional helps except in respect of those falling under the exempted category.
2. Draft of The Sikkim Tenants and Domestic and Professional Helps (Compulsory Verification) Act, 2008 has been placed on the State Government website www.sikkim.gov.in for general information.
3. The State Government has deemed it appropriate to have the views of the
members of the general public before the proposed law is enacted.
4. All those whishing to make any comments or suggestions in respect of the proposed legislation are requested to address the same to the “Home Secretary, Government of Sikkim, Tashiling Secretariat, Gangtok” or email at “home-sik@nic.in” within one month form the date of publication of this notice.
IPR RELEASE
GANDHIAN MOVEMENT FOR TAX RELIEF BEGINS
Gandhian movement for tax relief begins
Exemption at par with Sikkim subject holders: Old Business community
Cause extends to prospective implementation of Income Tax Act, 1961
GANGTOK, August 27: Peeved at the ‘discriminatory’ attitude of the Centre on Income Tax exemption issue, the business community of Sikkim launched its ‘Gandhian’ movement from today in the State with two demands- exemption from Direct Income Tax at par with Sikkim subject holders for old business community and implementation of Income Tax Act, 1961 to Sikkim on a future date for the leftouts.
The ball was set rolling by the Sikkim Chamber of Commerce who is spearheading the movement for those not under the exempted lot in Sikkim by placing a memorandum today to the Income Tax office (Sikkim division) addressed to the Union Finance Minister.
The old business community who have settled in Sikkim for generations before April 26, 1975 (the day when Sikkim merged with India) should be given Income Tax exemption at par with Sikkimese subject holders under the Ladakh model, SK Sarda said while submitting the memorandum to the Income Tax office representative.
Mr. Sarda was leading a large contingent of business community of Sikkim who have been left out in the Income Tax exemption by the Centre.
Earlier this year, the Centre had exempted Sikkim subject holders from paying Direct Income Tax by passing an amendment in the Finance Bill of 2008.
People of Sikkimese origin having Sikkim subjects have been exempted from Direct Taxes as per the 26AAA clause paving way for the Act to be enforced in the State.
The era of Direct Taxes began in Sikkim with the Central Income Tax office starting its operations from August 6 earlier this month.
Old business community numbering to 400 families living pre-merger in Sikkim and other people working in the State post-merger represents a huge chunk of those people who do not have Sikkimese subjects and thus have to cough up taxes now as per Income Tax Act 1961.
This has triggered strong resentment among the local business community who do not have the Sikkim Subjects though they have been living in Sikkim for generations. The community have already placed their demands for Income Tax exemption with the Governor and Chief Minister.
“Today is the beginning of our Gandhian movement to seek Income Tax exemption at par with Sikkimese subject holders”, said Mr. Sarda. “Yesterday we submitted our memorandum to the Governor, Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and Finance Secretary seeking their intervention,” he said.
Mr. Sarda asserted that the old business community will continue its movement till they get exemption.
“We have stressed that the Chief Minister has been repeatedly been assuring that the old settlers residing in Sikkim before the merger date have been left out of exemption from Income Tax and that they too would now be given the same benefits under Ladakh model in consultation with the Union Government,” said Mr. Sarda.
The business community further demanded the Income Tax Act 1961 to be implemented on a later date for those people who have settled in Sikkim after the merger date.
“We have drawn the attention of the Union Finance Minster to the difficulties that would be faced in compliance of Direct taxes in Sikkim if made applicable retrospectively from April 1, 2007,” said Suresh Agarwal, the General Secretary of the Chamber.
The Union Finance Minister had stated in his Budget speech that the Act will be implemented only prospectively and no date had been given for the implementation, said Mr. Agarwal.
“Hence the Act should not be implemented at once and proper time period should be given to those settled after merger date to be fully prepared. The Act should be made applicable prospectively from a later date after an extensive awareness campaign is conducted to prepare the people mentally for a smooth and meaningful implementation”, added Mr. Sarda.
According to Mr. Agarwal, the Sikkim Income Tax Manual 1948 ceased to operate only on June 16 this year after which the Central Income Tax Act, 1961 was enforced.
And also in light of the assurances of the Finance minister in the Parliament for prospective implementation, the Central Board of Direct Taxes instructions for assessing the non Sikkimese individuals from the accounting year 2007-08 was ‘not just and had created much anguish and confusion leading to a state of helplessness to cooperate in such unpractical situation’.
Despite the request of the State Government for sufficient time to be given before the Act is implemented, the Centre’s order for assessing the non Sikkimese individuals from the accounting year 2007-08 is not just and has created much anguish and confusion, said Mr. Sarda.
The prospective implementation demand stems from the belief among the business people here that the Income Tax Act 1961 will be difficult to understand.
We are accustomed to the simple ten pages Sikkim Income Tax Manual 1948 and quite understandably the prospective assesses of Sikkim would require at least a few years of study of the new, complicated and voluminous Indian Income Act, Mr. Sarda said.
We are confident that Union Finance Ministry will take our cause with due importance, he said.
LD Lepcha, the Income Tax officer posted in Sikkim received the memorandum on behalf of his department and assured to present the grievances of the business community before his superior officials, Chief Commissioner and the Commissioner. He informed that the Commissioner would be here in the next couple of days and also hold consultations with the state government in this regard.
( Source: Sikkim Express)
Exemption at par with Sikkim subject holders: Old Business community
Cause extends to prospective implementation of Income Tax Act, 1961
GANGTOK, August 27: Peeved at the ‘discriminatory’ attitude of the Centre on Income Tax exemption issue, the business community of Sikkim launched its ‘Gandhian’ movement from today in the State with two demands- exemption from Direct Income Tax at par with Sikkim subject holders for old business community and implementation of Income Tax Act, 1961 to Sikkim on a future date for the leftouts.
The ball was set rolling by the Sikkim Chamber of Commerce who is spearheading the movement for those not under the exempted lot in Sikkim by placing a memorandum today to the Income Tax office (Sikkim division) addressed to the Union Finance Minister.
The old business community who have settled in Sikkim for generations before April 26, 1975 (the day when Sikkim merged with India) should be given Income Tax exemption at par with Sikkimese subject holders under the Ladakh model, SK Sarda said while submitting the memorandum to the Income Tax office representative.
Mr. Sarda was leading a large contingent of business community of Sikkim who have been left out in the Income Tax exemption by the Centre.
Earlier this year, the Centre had exempted Sikkim subject holders from paying Direct Income Tax by passing an amendment in the Finance Bill of 2008.
People of Sikkimese origin having Sikkim subjects have been exempted from Direct Taxes as per the 26AAA clause paving way for the Act to be enforced in the State.
The era of Direct Taxes began in Sikkim with the Central Income Tax office starting its operations from August 6 earlier this month.
Old business community numbering to 400 families living pre-merger in Sikkim and other people working in the State post-merger represents a huge chunk of those people who do not have Sikkimese subjects and thus have to cough up taxes now as per Income Tax Act 1961.
This has triggered strong resentment among the local business community who do not have the Sikkim Subjects though they have been living in Sikkim for generations. The community have already placed their demands for Income Tax exemption with the Governor and Chief Minister.
“Today is the beginning of our Gandhian movement to seek Income Tax exemption at par with Sikkimese subject holders”, said Mr. Sarda. “Yesterday we submitted our memorandum to the Governor, Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and Finance Secretary seeking their intervention,” he said.
Mr. Sarda asserted that the old business community will continue its movement till they get exemption.
“We have stressed that the Chief Minister has been repeatedly been assuring that the old settlers residing in Sikkim before the merger date have been left out of exemption from Income Tax and that they too would now be given the same benefits under Ladakh model in consultation with the Union Government,” said Mr. Sarda.
The business community further demanded the Income Tax Act 1961 to be implemented on a later date for those people who have settled in Sikkim after the merger date.
“We have drawn the attention of the Union Finance Minster to the difficulties that would be faced in compliance of Direct taxes in Sikkim if made applicable retrospectively from April 1, 2007,” said Suresh Agarwal, the General Secretary of the Chamber.
The Union Finance Minister had stated in his Budget speech that the Act will be implemented only prospectively and no date had been given for the implementation, said Mr. Agarwal.
“Hence the Act should not be implemented at once and proper time period should be given to those settled after merger date to be fully prepared. The Act should be made applicable prospectively from a later date after an extensive awareness campaign is conducted to prepare the people mentally for a smooth and meaningful implementation”, added Mr. Sarda.
According to Mr. Agarwal, the Sikkim Income Tax Manual 1948 ceased to operate only on June 16 this year after which the Central Income Tax Act, 1961 was enforced.
And also in light of the assurances of the Finance minister in the Parliament for prospective implementation, the Central Board of Direct Taxes instructions for assessing the non Sikkimese individuals from the accounting year 2007-08 was ‘not just and had created much anguish and confusion leading to a state of helplessness to cooperate in such unpractical situation’.
Despite the request of the State Government for sufficient time to be given before the Act is implemented, the Centre’s order for assessing the non Sikkimese individuals from the accounting year 2007-08 is not just and has created much anguish and confusion, said Mr. Sarda.
The prospective implementation demand stems from the belief among the business people here that the Income Tax Act 1961 will be difficult to understand.
We are accustomed to the simple ten pages Sikkim Income Tax Manual 1948 and quite understandably the prospective assesses of Sikkim would require at least a few years of study of the new, complicated and voluminous Indian Income Act, Mr. Sarda said.
We are confident that Union Finance Ministry will take our cause with due importance, he said.
LD Lepcha, the Income Tax officer posted in Sikkim received the memorandum on behalf of his department and assured to present the grievances of the business community before his superior officials, Chief Commissioner and the Commissioner. He informed that the Commissioner would be here in the next couple of days and also hold consultations with the state government in this regard.
( Source: Sikkim Express)
700 DELEGATES FROM ALL OVER SIKKIM SUBMITS MEMORANDUM TO ITO, SIKKIM
Sikkim traders for delay in tax assessment
Gangtok, Aug. 27: About 700 businessmen of Sikkim today demanded postponement of the date of their income tax assessment. They said they would face problems if assessed from the announced date of April 1, 2007.
The traders, who gathered in front of the income tax office at Bhanu Path and submitted a memorandum to income tax officer L.D. Lepcha that was addressed to Union finance minister P. Chidambaram, want to be assessed from April 1, 2009.
The deputation was organised by the Sikkim Chamber of Commerce.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) had ordered on July 28 that all non-Sikkimese residents of the state would be assessed for the 2007-2008 fiscal. This is the first time that the central act has been implemented in Sikkim. However, holders of Sikkim Subject Certificates and Certificates of Identification have been exempt from paying tax.
Suresh Agarwal, the general secretary of the chamber of commerce, said the Sikkim Income Tax Manual, which governs tax collection of Sikkimese people, ceased to exist from June 16 after which the central tax was enforced. “The CBDT directive has created anguish and confusion among the people.”
The president of the traders’ body, S.K. Sarda, said the Assembly had earlier released a white paper requesting the Union finance ministry that sufficient time be given to create awareness among the people before implementing the act.
“We have to educate the tax-payers and prepare them mentally about the new system of taxation,” Sarda said. “We have requested the finance minister for arranging seminars in the state for the tax-payers. The tax should be assessed from April 1, 2009.”
An income tax commissioner will arrive here in the next couple of days to meet the state finance secretary, Lepcha said.
Sarda said about 400 business families who had come to Sikkim prior to its merger with India on April 26, 1975, did not possess the Sikkim Subjects Certificates. “We demand that these families be exempted from paying taxes like their Sikkimese brethren — an assurance that the chief minister has given us several times.”
( SOURCE: TELEGRAPH)
Gangtok, Aug. 27: About 700 businessmen of Sikkim today demanded postponement of the date of their income tax assessment. They said they would face problems if assessed from the announced date of April 1, 2007.
The traders, who gathered in front of the income tax office at Bhanu Path and submitted a memorandum to income tax officer L.D. Lepcha that was addressed to Union finance minister P. Chidambaram, want to be assessed from April 1, 2009.
The deputation was organised by the Sikkim Chamber of Commerce.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) had ordered on July 28 that all non-Sikkimese residents of the state would be assessed for the 2007-2008 fiscal. This is the first time that the central act has been implemented in Sikkim. However, holders of Sikkim Subject Certificates and Certificates of Identification have been exempt from paying tax.
Suresh Agarwal, the general secretary of the chamber of commerce, said the Sikkim Income Tax Manual, which governs tax collection of Sikkimese people, ceased to exist from June 16 after which the central tax was enforced. “The CBDT directive has created anguish and confusion among the people.”
The president of the traders’ body, S.K. Sarda, said the Assembly had earlier released a white paper requesting the Union finance ministry that sufficient time be given to create awareness among the people before implementing the act.
“We have to educate the tax-payers and prepare them mentally about the new system of taxation,” Sarda said. “We have requested the finance minister for arranging seminars in the state for the tax-payers. The tax should be assessed from April 1, 2009.”
An income tax commissioner will arrive here in the next couple of days to meet the state finance secretary, Lepcha said.
Sarda said about 400 business families who had come to Sikkim prior to its merger with India on April 26, 1975, did not possess the Sikkim Subjects Certificates. “We demand that these families be exempted from paying taxes like their Sikkimese brethren — an assurance that the chief minister has given us several times.”
( SOURCE: TELEGRAPH)
ON LINE WEATHER INFORMATION
Gangtok Meteorological starts 24 hour online weather service
GANGTOK, August 25: A new toll free weather service has been started at Meteorological Centre, Gangtok with effect from August 20.
All users can access local weather information and also weather information of other cities by availing the toll free number 1800 1800 1717 and also through paid calls to 03592 - 202079 and 03592 - 205040.
The weather information is played through Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) installed in the premises of MC Gangtok, which will remain online 24 hours. The weather information is available in three languages namely English, Hindi and Nepali.
The information can be accessed from BSNL / MTNL Land line or from BSNL / MTNL mobile connection. (PIB)
GANGTOK, August 25: A new toll free weather service has been started at Meteorological Centre, Gangtok with effect from August 20.
All users can access local weather information and also weather information of other cities by availing the toll free number 1800 1800 1717 and also through paid calls to 03592 - 202079 and 03592 - 205040.
The weather information is played through Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) installed in the premises of MC Gangtok, which will remain online 24 hours. The weather information is available in three languages namely English, Hindi and Nepali.
The information can be accessed from BSNL / MTNL Land line or from BSNL / MTNL mobile connection. (PIB)
Monday, August 25, 2008
MAKE CONSUMER A PART OF THE VALUE CHAIN-HUL VP
Make consumer a part of the value chain: HUL VP
The market segment at the bottom of the pyramid provides a huge opportunity for business, said Hindustan Unilever Ltd Vice-President (Home Care) Sudhanshu Vats. He was speaking at the session on 'The stressful economic challenge of the Bottom of the Pyramid' at the Ninth CII Marketing Summit here today.
Mr Vats offered insights into the stressful economic challenges posed by the bottom of the pyramid segment by first dividing the segment into two broad sections, urban and rural. He defined the urban bottom of pyramid consumer as one " who lives mostly in slums in one-room houses." He said that this urban consumer is "efficient, thrifty and smart as also optimistic and balanced in his approach." Educating his children is an important consideration for him, Mr Vats added.
"The rural consumer has little more space than his urban counterpart," he said, "but has less amenities." The rural consumer too has education for his children high on his priority, Mr Vats pointed out saying that there is a visible change in opportunities for him in the last two decades.
Mr Vats then enumerated what he called three As and an R to reach the segment at the bottom of the pyramid - Awareness about products; Access to the products; Affordability of the product; and lastly, Relevance of the product. He stressed on looking at the segment from the consumer's perspective: "We must think as they do and not as we do."
"The way at looking at pricing for products targeted to this segment needs to be different," he said. "Here pricing means," Mr Vats said, "target price minus margins is equal to costs." He said that there is no room for slackness while reaching out to this market segment. "The product has to be efficient as well as affordable at the same time," Mr Vats pointed out. He said superior technology is needed to reach the bottom of the pyramid, more so than the other segments of the market. For this, he said, even the market leader needs to have a challenger's mindset.
Mr. Vats said that the way of moving to the market is important with regards to keeping a check on pricing. "The same goes for distribution networks," he said adding that geographical and specific needs of the consumer have to be kept in mind for this. "As this is a high volume-low margin market, it is necessary to have marketing innovations," Mr Vats stressed.
He cited experiences of his company to illustrate his point that consumer is not only a customer but can also be a part of the company's value chain. This involves the consumer with company's products and this helps in reaching out to more people.
Mr. Vats stresses upon looking at the Public Private Partnership model, whose time, he said has come. Looking outside the organization is important, he said, and interdependence on outside agencies is useful to unlock value for the company and welfare of the people. "Do well by doing good," Mr Vats said was the mantra that needs to be followed.
The market segment at the bottom of the pyramid provides a huge opportunity for business, said Hindustan Unilever Ltd Vice-President (Home Care) Sudhanshu Vats. He was speaking at the session on 'The stressful economic challenge of the Bottom of the Pyramid' at the Ninth CII Marketing Summit here today.
Mr Vats offered insights into the stressful economic challenges posed by the bottom of the pyramid segment by first dividing the segment into two broad sections, urban and rural. He defined the urban bottom of pyramid consumer as one " who lives mostly in slums in one-room houses." He said that this urban consumer is "efficient, thrifty and smart as also optimistic and balanced in his approach." Educating his children is an important consideration for him, Mr Vats added.
"The rural consumer has little more space than his urban counterpart," he said, "but has less amenities." The rural consumer too has education for his children high on his priority, Mr Vats pointed out saying that there is a visible change in opportunities for him in the last two decades.
Mr Vats then enumerated what he called three As and an R to reach the segment at the bottom of the pyramid - Awareness about products; Access to the products; Affordability of the product; and lastly, Relevance of the product. He stressed on looking at the segment from the consumer's perspective: "We must think as they do and not as we do."
"The way at looking at pricing for products targeted to this segment needs to be different," he said. "Here pricing means," Mr Vats said, "target price minus margins is equal to costs." He said that there is no room for slackness while reaching out to this market segment. "The product has to be efficient as well as affordable at the same time," Mr Vats pointed out. He said superior technology is needed to reach the bottom of the pyramid, more so than the other segments of the market. For this, he said, even the market leader needs to have a challenger's mindset.
Mr. Vats said that the way of moving to the market is important with regards to keeping a check on pricing. "The same goes for distribution networks," he said adding that geographical and specific needs of the consumer have to be kept in mind for this. "As this is a high volume-low margin market, it is necessary to have marketing innovations," Mr Vats stressed.
He cited experiences of his company to illustrate his point that consumer is not only a customer but can also be a part of the company's value chain. This involves the consumer with company's products and this helps in reaching out to more people.
Mr. Vats stresses upon looking at the Public Private Partnership model, whose time, he said has come. Looking outside the organization is important, he said, and interdependence on outside agencies is useful to unlock value for the company and welfare of the people. "Do well by doing good," Mr Vats said was the mantra that needs to be followed.
DR C K PRAHALAD ON DEMOCRATISING COMMERCE
New Delhi, 20 August,2008] "If the 20th century was all about gaining political freedom, 21st century is about democratising commerce, about how to reach and enable access to all to the global economy." Dr C K Prahalad said this at a special session via video conferencing at the Ninth CII Marketing Summit here today. Reaching the bottom of the pyramid, he said, meant providing world-class products at an affordable price to each and every human being.
"Globalisation is a reality today and cannot be wished away," Dr Prahalad said adding, "there are 4 billion underserved persons in the world and there's a need to provide this emerging market the benefits of globalisation." He stressed on the need to "create micro-consumers and micro-producers along with micro-investors and micro-innovators if we are to achieve this goal."
Dr Prahalad said that there is no single business model to cater to the bottom of the pyramid as it is not one homogenous segment and spending models differ from country to country, region to region and district to district. "The underlying aim is to provide products with global standards and locally responsive solutions," he pointed out.
Dr Prahalad cited the example of cellphone industry in India to buttress his point that it is possible to successfully cater to market segments straddling the pyramid. "If we can do this in the field of connectivity, why should not we able to be successful in other core fields like health, energy, education, water and micro-finance," he said.
The biggest impediment in achieving this, he said, was the "managerial mindset". "We always think of going into a market where money is, not where we can create a market and this has to change," he stressed.
Dr Prahalad stressed that there could be no alternative to providing hi-tech hybrid solutions if we have to reach the bottom of the pyramid. "If people cannot afford, we have to reduce costs," he said, adding, "We have to think away from the traditional business strategy of cost plus profit is equal to price. The new way to reach out is to think in terms of target price minus target profit is equal to cost." This, he said, is economically justified as the scales are huge and important.
"We must also learn to co-create," he said. "The public, private and NGO sectors have to work together to achieve this goal," he pointed out. This is important to create inclusion and take the benefits of globalisation to all.
Dr Prahalad concluded by saying that all this is possible "only if we have the imagination and deep belief that every Indian has the right to quality services at affordable prices."
Earlier, welcoming the participants to the special session, Mr Suhel Seth, Chairman, CII Marketing Summit 2008 & Managing Partner, Counselage India, congratulated Dr Prahlad for his belief in the Indian growth story and said that attention must be paid to those at the 'bottom of the pyramid' a term coined by the noted thought guru.
"Globalisation is a reality today and cannot be wished away," Dr Prahalad said adding, "there are 4 billion underserved persons in the world and there's a need to provide this emerging market the benefits of globalisation." He stressed on the need to "create micro-consumers and micro-producers along with micro-investors and micro-innovators if we are to achieve this goal."
Dr Prahalad said that there is no single business model to cater to the bottom of the pyramid as it is not one homogenous segment and spending models differ from country to country, region to region and district to district. "The underlying aim is to provide products with global standards and locally responsive solutions," he pointed out.
Dr Prahalad cited the example of cellphone industry in India to buttress his point that it is possible to successfully cater to market segments straddling the pyramid. "If we can do this in the field of connectivity, why should not we able to be successful in other core fields like health, energy, education, water and micro-finance," he said.
The biggest impediment in achieving this, he said, was the "managerial mindset". "We always think of going into a market where money is, not where we can create a market and this has to change," he stressed.
Dr Prahalad stressed that there could be no alternative to providing hi-tech hybrid solutions if we have to reach the bottom of the pyramid. "If people cannot afford, we have to reduce costs," he said, adding, "We have to think away from the traditional business strategy of cost plus profit is equal to price. The new way to reach out is to think in terms of target price minus target profit is equal to cost." This, he said, is economically justified as the scales are huge and important.
"We must also learn to co-create," he said. "The public, private and NGO sectors have to work together to achieve this goal," he pointed out. This is important to create inclusion and take the benefits of globalisation to all.
Dr Prahalad concluded by saying that all this is possible "only if we have the imagination and deep belief that every Indian has the right to quality services at affordable prices."
Earlier, welcoming the participants to the special session, Mr Suhel Seth, Chairman, CII Marketing Summit 2008 & Managing Partner, Counselage India, congratulated Dr Prahlad for his belief in the Indian growth story and said that attention must be paid to those at the 'bottom of the pyramid' a term coined by the noted thought guru.
CII NOT HAPPY IN WEST BENGAL
CII expresses deep concern over developments in West Bengal
[New Delhi, 22 August,2008] Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) today expressed deep concern about the situation in West Bengal. Any adverse development with regard to the upcoming Tata Motors Nano Plant in Singur, will irreversibly hamper the future industrialisation in the State of West Bengal and could take the state back to an age of industrial vacuum. Industrialisation is critical for the development of social infrastrucuture as also rural development. This was stated by Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII. The development of the state and the country cannot suffer due to any political differences.
CII Statement also said that an immediate solution through dialogue was the most urgent need of the day.
Peace, Law & Order and stability are all pre-requisites for Industrial Investments which would take the State's economy ahead. Therefore a proces of dialogue ensuring peace was an imperative , added Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII.
[New Delhi, 22 August,2008] Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) today expressed deep concern about the situation in West Bengal. Any adverse development with regard to the upcoming Tata Motors Nano Plant in Singur, will irreversibly hamper the future industrialisation in the State of West Bengal and could take the state back to an age of industrial vacuum. Industrialisation is critical for the development of social infrastrucuture as also rural development. This was stated by Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII. The development of the state and the country cannot suffer due to any political differences.
CII Statement also said that an immediate solution through dialogue was the most urgent need of the day.
Peace, Law & Order and stability are all pre-requisites for Industrial Investments which would take the State's economy ahead. Therefore a proces of dialogue ensuring peace was an imperative , added Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
STATE PLANNING COMMISSION RECONSTITUTED
The State Government vide notification no:85/Home/2008, dated:19.08.2008 has reconstituted the State Planning Commission consisting of the following members namely-:
1. Dr. Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister - Chairman
2. Shri. P.D. Rai, Tadong - Deputy Chairman
3. Shri. J.K. Bhandari, Former MLA - Member
4. Shri. Sonam Dorji, Former MLA - Member
5. Shri. I. B. Rai, Former MLA - Member
6. Shri. S.K. Gurung, Retired Secretary - Member
7. Shri. Y.B. Thapa, Former Chairman - Member
8. Shri. Thondup Pintso, Former Registar, Cooperation Member
9. Shri. D.D. Pradhan, Retired Secretary - Member
10. Development Commissioner, DPER and NECA Member Secretary
The Deputy Chairman shall be accorded the status of the Minister of State for Protocol courtesies.
IPR News Service
IPR No 123/IPR/08-09
1. Dr. Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister - Chairman
2. Shri. P.D. Rai, Tadong - Deputy Chairman
3. Shri. J.K. Bhandari, Former MLA - Member
4. Shri. Sonam Dorji, Former MLA - Member
5. Shri. I. B. Rai, Former MLA - Member
6. Shri. S.K. Gurung, Retired Secretary - Member
7. Shri. Y.B. Thapa, Former Chairman - Member
8. Shri. Thondup Pintso, Former Registar, Cooperation Member
9. Shri. D.D. Pradhan, Retired Secretary - Member
10. Development Commissioner, DPER and NECA Member Secretary
The Deputy Chairman shall be accorded the status of the Minister of State for Protocol courtesies.
IPR News Service
IPR No 123/IPR/08-09
Friday, August 22, 2008
SEWER LINES IN AND AROUN GANGTOK
WATER SECURITY & PUBLIC HEALTH ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Proposal for according administrative approval and financial sanction of Rs.2392.0 1/- (Rupees two thousand one hundred fifty two lakhs and eighty one thousand) only for three proposals under the heading of Rehabilitation of Sewers in Gangtok in the following manner, -
b) Rehabilitation of Sewer main lines along Tibet road,
c) M.G Marg & New Market -Rs. 309.00lakhs
d) Re- habilitation of trunk lines all along National Highway ,
31A from Hospital Dara to Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) Complex at
Adampool - Rs. 1556.25 lakhs
c) Extension of Sewerage branch Network below NH 31 A (5th & 6th mile)
Phase-I - Rs. 526.761akhs
Total Rs. 2392.01 lakhs
The Cabinet approved and sanctioned the above proposals.
IPR News Service
IPR No 108/IPR/08-09
Proposal for according administrative approval and financial sanction of Rs.2392.0 1/- (Rupees two thousand one hundred fifty two lakhs and eighty one thousand) only for three proposals under the heading of Rehabilitation of Sewers in Gangtok in the following manner, -
b) Rehabilitation of Sewer main lines along Tibet road,
c) M.G Marg & New Market -Rs. 309.00lakhs
d) Re- habilitation of trunk lines all along National Highway ,
31A from Hospital Dara to Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) Complex at
Adampool - Rs. 1556.25 lakhs
c) Extension of Sewerage branch Network below NH 31 A (5th & 6th mile)
Phase-I - Rs. 526.761akhs
Total Rs. 2392.01 lakhs
The Cabinet approved and sanctioned the above proposals.
IPR News Service
IPR No 108/IPR/08-09
1,27,726 students in Sikkim in 765 Govt schools
Secretary HRD Department, while delivering a speech at Gangtok on 21 August 2008 said that:
Altogether there are 765 Government schools in the state which has a total enrolment of 1, 27,726 students. The breakup of the same is 61,973 boys and 65,787 girls which indicates that there is no gender inequalities in the state.
Altogether there are 765 Government schools in the state which has a total enrolment of 1, 27,726 students. The breakup of the same is 61,973 boys and 65,787 girls which indicates that there is no gender inequalities in the state.
Workshop on GI Registry on 22 Aug 2008 at Gangtok
21st August, 2008
Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Intellectual Property India, Geographical Indication Registry and Crafts Council of India are holding a Workshop in Gangtok on the 22nd of August, 2008. This sensitization workshop is first of its kind in North East. GI Indication is a sign used in goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess essential qualities that are due to that place of origin. The Geographical Indication conveys to a consumer that a product is produced in a certain place and has certain characteristics that are due to that place of production.
Some of the examples of Geographical Indication from India include Darjeeling Tea, Basmati rice, Kanchipuram silk saree, alphonso mango, kolhapuri chappals etc.
The registration of a geographical indication confers on the authorized users exclusive right to use the GI in relation to the goods in respect of which it is registered. Any association of persons, producers,organization or authority established by or under law can apply. The applicant must represent the interest of the producer of the concerned goods.
Registration is valid for ten years. It can however be renewed.
GI registration confers legal protection to geographical indication in India.
# It prevents unauthorized use of a registered GI.
# It boosts exports by providing legal protection.
# It promotes economic prosperity of producers.
# It enables seeking legal protection in other WTO member countries.
# The authorized users can exercise the exclusive right to use the GI.
In this age and day when everyone is copying Indian designs and exporting them back to India for use by Indian consumers, this is a very vital step that every crafts person and producer of unique items should take. We may otherwise reach a stage when our Indian goods will come to us from neighboring countries like it happened in the case of Indian cotton printed goods which were being produced in England and exported back to India, reads a press release received from Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok.
IPR News Service
IPR No 119/IPR/08-09
20th August 2008
Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Intellectual Property India, Geographical Indication Registry and Crafts Council of India are holding a Workshop in Gangtok on the 22nd of August, 2008. This sensitization workshop is first of its kind in North East. GI Indication is a sign used in goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess essential qualities that are due to that place of origin. The Geographical Indication conveys to a consumer that a product is produced in a certain place and has certain characteristics that are due to that place of production.
Some of the examples of Geographical Indication from India include Darjeeling Tea, Basmati rice, Kanchipuram silk saree, alphonso mango, kolhapuri chappals etc.
The registration of a geographical indication confers on the authorized users exclusive right to use the GI in relation to the goods in respect of which it is registered. Any association of persons, producers,organization or authority established by or under law can apply. The applicant must represent the interest of the producer of the concerned goods.
Registration is valid for ten years. It can however be renewed.
GI registration confers legal protection to geographical indication in India.
# It prevents unauthorized use of a registered GI.
# It boosts exports by providing legal protection.
# It promotes economic prosperity of producers.
# It enables seeking legal protection in other WTO member countries.
# The authorized users can exercise the exclusive right to use the GI.
In this age and day when everyone is copying Indian designs and exporting them back to India for use by Indian consumers, this is a very vital step that every crafts person and producer of unique items should take. We may otherwise reach a stage when our Indian goods will come to us from neighboring countries like it happened in the case of Indian cotton printed goods which were being produced in England and exported back to India, reads a press release received from Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok.
IPR News Service
IPR No 119/IPR/08-09
20th August 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
MAHINDRA 51% STAKE IN CHINESE COMPANY
Mahindra buys 51% in Chinese tractor co
mumbai, Aug. 18 Tractor and utility vehicle maker Mahindra & Mahindra has agreed to pick up majority equity in a joint venture it will form with China’s third largest tractor company, Yancheng Tractor.
The new venture will hold the divested tractor business of the state-owned Chinese company. The deal will strengthen M&M’s tractor company, Mahindra Farm Equipment Sector, the third largest tractor maker in the world, and gets it closer to its aim of becoming number one.
M&M will hold 51 per cent equity in the joint venture, through its Mauritius-based subsidiary, Mahindra Overseas Investment company. It will pay $26 million ( Rs 112 crore) for the stake.The net assets of the Chinese company that will be transferred to the new venture are valued at $ 50 million, said Mr Bharat Doshi, M&M’s Chief Financial Officer.
This is Mahindra’s second tractor venture in China after Mahindra China Tractor Company Ltd, the 80:20 joint venture between Mahindra and Jiangling Motors Company.
M&M makes tractors in the 24-80 HP range and Yangcheng in the 16-125 HP range. Yangcheng exports tractors to the US, South America, Europe, Russia and Africa.
Mr Anand Mahindra, M&M’s Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, hoped the new venture would help the company realise its aspiration of being the number one tractor company in the world.
Mr Doshi said the farm equipment sector sold 1.14 lakh units in 2007 and the figure would be 1.44 lakh if the sales of Punjab Tractors, which M&M bought last year, were added. Yangcheng sold 26,000 units last year.
“If we put together all these numbers, it surpasses that of the world’s largest tractor maker,” said Mr Doshi, suggesting that Mahindra had the potential to become the world’s number 1 in volume terms.
“Yancheng’s Huanghai Jinma brand is strong in domestic China market and the company is one of the biggest exporters,” said Mr Anjanikumar Choudhari, M&M’s President, Farm Equipment Sector. Yancheng Tractor, located in Jiangsu Province, had total revenue last year of about Rs 500 crore.
Investment plan
“We have an investment plan for the growth of the company. Over a period of time we will invest $ 20 million,” said Mr Dhoshi. He said that Yancheng targets 30 – 35,000 unit sales in the current year.
Giving his perspective on the collaborative venture, Mr Anand Mahindra said “World speaks that India and China are competitors. We are showing that India and China can collaborate to create a new competitive force.”
M&M plans to enhance its research and development capabilities in China. “The Chinese have a fair degree of cost-competitiveness. We will certainly leverage that. China could be a base for exports,” said Mr Gautam Nagwekar, Chief Operating Officer, Mahindra Farm Equipment Sector.
( sOURCE: Businessline)
mumbai, Aug. 18 Tractor and utility vehicle maker Mahindra & Mahindra has agreed to pick up majority equity in a joint venture it will form with China’s third largest tractor company, Yancheng Tractor.
The new venture will hold the divested tractor business of the state-owned Chinese company. The deal will strengthen M&M’s tractor company, Mahindra Farm Equipment Sector, the third largest tractor maker in the world, and gets it closer to its aim of becoming number one.
M&M will hold 51 per cent equity in the joint venture, through its Mauritius-based subsidiary, Mahindra Overseas Investment company. It will pay $26 million ( Rs 112 crore) for the stake.The net assets of the Chinese company that will be transferred to the new venture are valued at $ 50 million, said Mr Bharat Doshi, M&M’s Chief Financial Officer.
This is Mahindra’s second tractor venture in China after Mahindra China Tractor Company Ltd, the 80:20 joint venture between Mahindra and Jiangling Motors Company.
M&M makes tractors in the 24-80 HP range and Yangcheng in the 16-125 HP range. Yangcheng exports tractors to the US, South America, Europe, Russia and Africa.
Mr Anand Mahindra, M&M’s Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, hoped the new venture would help the company realise its aspiration of being the number one tractor company in the world.
Mr Doshi said the farm equipment sector sold 1.14 lakh units in 2007 and the figure would be 1.44 lakh if the sales of Punjab Tractors, which M&M bought last year, were added. Yangcheng sold 26,000 units last year.
“If we put together all these numbers, it surpasses that of the world’s largest tractor maker,” said Mr Doshi, suggesting that Mahindra had the potential to become the world’s number 1 in volume terms.
“Yancheng’s Huanghai Jinma brand is strong in domestic China market and the company is one of the biggest exporters,” said Mr Anjanikumar Choudhari, M&M’s President, Farm Equipment Sector. Yancheng Tractor, located in Jiangsu Province, had total revenue last year of about Rs 500 crore.
Investment plan
“We have an investment plan for the growth of the company. Over a period of time we will invest $ 20 million,” said Mr Dhoshi. He said that Yancheng targets 30 – 35,000 unit sales in the current year.
Giving his perspective on the collaborative venture, Mr Anand Mahindra said “World speaks that India and China are competitors. We are showing that India and China can collaborate to create a new competitive force.”
M&M plans to enhance its research and development capabilities in China. “The Chinese have a fair degree of cost-competitiveness. We will certainly leverage that. China could be a base for exports,” said Mr Gautam Nagwekar, Chief Operating Officer, Mahindra Farm Equipment Sector.
( sOURCE: Businessline)
Monday, August 18, 2008
8% GDP FORCAST BY CII
June IIP growth at 5.4%: CII confident of economic growth
[New Delhi, 12 August,2008] With June IIP growth recovering from the previous month's low level, CII feels that the upturn in the economy is now becoming visible. Manufacturing growth has recovered and overall growth would have been stronger if not for weakness in mining and electricity. Evidence collected by CII and reported two weeks ago had shown that investment sentiment remains strong. CEO polls conducted by CII have shown that investment plans are not being shelved and in fact, most industries are planning to expand capacity.
According to the CII m-ASCON Survey released earlier, 47% of all sectors surveyed showed a growth rate of over 10% during April-June 2008. The IIP data further confirms this trend. CII maintains that industrial growth and GDP growth will exceed 8.0% in 2008-09 said Mr. C Banerjee, Director General, CII.
[New Delhi, 12 August,2008] With June IIP growth recovering from the previous month's low level, CII feels that the upturn in the economy is now becoming visible. Manufacturing growth has recovered and overall growth would have been stronger if not for weakness in mining and electricity. Evidence collected by CII and reported two weeks ago had shown that investment sentiment remains strong. CEO polls conducted by CII have shown that investment plans are not being shelved and in fact, most industries are planning to expand capacity.
According to the CII m-ASCON Survey released earlier, 47% of all sectors surveyed showed a growth rate of over 10% during April-June 2008. The IIP data further confirms this trend. CII maintains that industrial growth and GDP growth will exceed 8.0% in 2008-09 said Mr. C Banerjee, Director General, CII.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
PLAYWIN 7.87 CRORES TO PATEL
Gangtok, 16th August 2008
Kirti Ashok Patel, a practicing physician became the first ever lady doctor to win Playwin's Sikkim Saturday Super Lotto Jackpot of Rs 7.87 crore. With this win she is Mumbai's highest jackpot winner till date.
Within a short span of six years, Playwin Online Lottery, an Essel Group compny, has generated 64 crorepatis and over 2,800 lakhpati's all over India. This Jackpot draw started its initial roll out on May 26, 2007 with an initial amount of Rs 2 crore. It rolled over for 14 months till Patel won the Rs 7.87 crore jackpot on July 26, 2008.
Patel said, "I consider myself very lucky to win this jackpot. We matched the winning numbers on my husband's birthday on July 28th and I'm really thankful to God for this. When I moved to this city from Surat, I'd heard that Mumbai is a city where dreams come true, Playwin made this possible for me. My long cherished dream of buying a flat in Bandra will now come true and I also plan to use this jackpot towards my children's education. I will definitely continue my practice as a doctor, since my occupation in very important for me."
Amar Sinha, CEO and managing director, Pan India Network Infravest Pvt. Ltd said, "We, at Playwin are very happy for Mrs. Kirti Ashok Patel and her family for winning the Playwin Sikkim Saturday Super Lotto Jackpot. Patel is the winner of the largest jackpot from Mumbai and also the first ever female doctor to win a Playwin jackpot."
"The winning jackpot is always a product of chance and we encourage participants to take a chance on the Super Lotto; the luck factor may just be on their side. We at Playwin promote responsible gaming and stand firm on our pillars of operational transparency and legality across gaming business. It brings us immense pleasure to witness people like Patel who win our lotteries and pursue their dreams with the wining amount." Sinha says.
Kirti Ashok Patel, a practicing physician became the first ever lady doctor to win Playwin's Sikkim Saturday Super Lotto Jackpot of Rs 7.87 crore. With this win she is Mumbai's highest jackpot winner till date.
Within a short span of six years, Playwin Online Lottery, an Essel Group compny, has generated 64 crorepatis and over 2,800 lakhpati's all over India. This Jackpot draw started its initial roll out on May 26, 2007 with an initial amount of Rs 2 crore. It rolled over for 14 months till Patel won the Rs 7.87 crore jackpot on July 26, 2008.
Patel said, "I consider myself very lucky to win this jackpot. We matched the winning numbers on my husband's birthday on July 28th and I'm really thankful to God for this. When I moved to this city from Surat, I'd heard that Mumbai is a city where dreams come true, Playwin made this possible for me. My long cherished dream of buying a flat in Bandra will now come true and I also plan to use this jackpot towards my children's education. I will definitely continue my practice as a doctor, since my occupation in very important for me."
Amar Sinha, CEO and managing director, Pan India Network Infravest Pvt. Ltd said, "We, at Playwin are very happy for Mrs. Kirti Ashok Patel and her family for winning the Playwin Sikkim Saturday Super Lotto Jackpot. Patel is the winner of the largest jackpot from Mumbai and also the first ever female doctor to win a Playwin jackpot."
"The winning jackpot is always a product of chance and we encourage participants to take a chance on the Super Lotto; the luck factor may just be on their side. We at Playwin promote responsible gaming and stand firm on our pillars of operational transparency and legality across gaming business. It brings us immense pleasure to witness people like Patel who win our lotteries and pursue their dreams with the wining amount." Sinha says.
CM ON INDEPENDENCE DAY
People need to draw lesson from history to make correct political decision: Chamling
Staff Reporter
GANGTOK, August 14: The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling has focused on the twin ideas of development and citizens’ responsibly on the occasion of Independence Day.
Highlighting an impressive array of achievements recorded under his fourteen and half years governance, the Chief Minister has presented a series of futuristic activities for the people of Sikkim to be undertaken on an urgent basis including addressing the connectivity issues.
In his Independence Day address, the Chief Minister informed the people that announcement for an alternative highway for Sikkim has been announced by the Centre. “The work will commence soon”, he said.
“Construction of Green field Airport at Pakyong shall commence within a month and shall be operational by July 2011”.
Connectivity issues have been long pending demand of Sikkim with its sole road link, NH 31 A subject to natural and political disturbances triggering hardships and financial losses to the state.
Raising this issue in his Independence Day address, the Chief Minister said that loss Sikkim have suffered on a daily basis during such disturbance have been over Rs. 4 crores while the mental agony and other forms of sufferings inflicted by such closure and disturbances are ‘too large’ to assess.
The Chief Minister also announced that construction of Degree College at Geyzing and Mangan will start early. He also expressed his commitment to develop the Sikkim Central University into a world-class educational destination.
Other undertakings slated to be conducted early were construction of Teachers’ Guest House at Syari and guest houses for C & D group employees at Namchi, Geyzing and Gangtok. A statue of Chenrezi shall be installed at appropriate location in West Sikkim.
A 500 bedded modern hospital at Sokethang near Tadong with state of art technology equipments for specialized treatment was announced by the Chief Minister. Government grants of Rs.50,000 for construction of cultural bhawans for Mangar, Tamang and
Newar communities was also announced by the Chief Minister. Traditional healers also stand to gain with a monthly pension of Rs.500 under Samajeek Seva Bhatta scheme of the state government.
As to where Sikkim stands today, the Chief Minister claimed that his government has been able to successfully provide the basic necessities of life to the people of Sikkim besides working to shift the mindset of the people from the consumerism culture towards productive human resources by tapping the abundant opportunities that nature had bestowed the state.
“As part of our thrust areas and engines of growth, we have hydel power projects, eco-tourism, horticulture and floriculture, among others”, he said.
With hydel power to be the major source of revenue for the state, Chamling said that the revenue will be Rs.1140 crores by 2020 from the agreements signed with the independent power producers for generation of 3364 MW of hydel power.
Mr. Chamling pointed that this year is “little different” from the previous years for the “obvious reason” and appealed the people to “draw lesson from history” to reach a correct political decision.
“Our endeavour has been to make our people politically conscious and they need to draw lesson from history to make correct political decision through their own discretion and wisdom. If they are unable to take lesson from history and exercise their democratic rights fully, people will be forever betrayed and let down”, Mr. Chamling said. He appealed the people to continue to fight against all the ‘anti-people and anti-developmental elements’ within the state.
Introspecting on the early days of government formation in 1994, the Chief Minister recollected that challenges were many and with limited means to address them.
“…today we have vibrant democracy in the State with peace and tranquility as our hallmark. This is clearly reflected in the image we have projected and built about Sikkim and the Sikkimese people at the regional, national and international level”, he said.
Deliberating on rights and responsibilities, Mr. Chamling said that the two were “two sides of the same coin.” “One can not sustain in the absence of other. For the society to prosper, each member should be conscious about his rights and also fully committed to carry out his responsibility. People should be adequately empowered to be more responsible and responsive and also capable of utilizing their rights and privileges provided under democratic system,” he said.
“The dream of self-sufficient Sikkim and the self-contented Sikkimese shall not be fulfilled unless we shed off our lethargy and soft life syndrome. Every citizen will have to be more responsible towards his family, society, State and the nation,” he added.
( Source: Sikkim Express)
Staff Reporter
GANGTOK, August 14: The Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling has focused on the twin ideas of development and citizens’ responsibly on the occasion of Independence Day.
Highlighting an impressive array of achievements recorded under his fourteen and half years governance, the Chief Minister has presented a series of futuristic activities for the people of Sikkim to be undertaken on an urgent basis including addressing the connectivity issues.
In his Independence Day address, the Chief Minister informed the people that announcement for an alternative highway for Sikkim has been announced by the Centre. “The work will commence soon”, he said.
“Construction of Green field Airport at Pakyong shall commence within a month and shall be operational by July 2011”.
Connectivity issues have been long pending demand of Sikkim with its sole road link, NH 31 A subject to natural and political disturbances triggering hardships and financial losses to the state.
Raising this issue in his Independence Day address, the Chief Minister said that loss Sikkim have suffered on a daily basis during such disturbance have been over Rs. 4 crores while the mental agony and other forms of sufferings inflicted by such closure and disturbances are ‘too large’ to assess.
The Chief Minister also announced that construction of Degree College at Geyzing and Mangan will start early. He also expressed his commitment to develop the Sikkim Central University into a world-class educational destination.
Other undertakings slated to be conducted early were construction of Teachers’ Guest House at Syari and guest houses for C & D group employees at Namchi, Geyzing and Gangtok. A statue of Chenrezi shall be installed at appropriate location in West Sikkim.
A 500 bedded modern hospital at Sokethang near Tadong with state of art technology equipments for specialized treatment was announced by the Chief Minister. Government grants of Rs.50,000 for construction of cultural bhawans for Mangar, Tamang and
Newar communities was also announced by the Chief Minister. Traditional healers also stand to gain with a monthly pension of Rs.500 under Samajeek Seva Bhatta scheme of the state government.
As to where Sikkim stands today, the Chief Minister claimed that his government has been able to successfully provide the basic necessities of life to the people of Sikkim besides working to shift the mindset of the people from the consumerism culture towards productive human resources by tapping the abundant opportunities that nature had bestowed the state.
“As part of our thrust areas and engines of growth, we have hydel power projects, eco-tourism, horticulture and floriculture, among others”, he said.
With hydel power to be the major source of revenue for the state, Chamling said that the revenue will be Rs.1140 crores by 2020 from the agreements signed with the independent power producers for generation of 3364 MW of hydel power.
Mr. Chamling pointed that this year is “little different” from the previous years for the “obvious reason” and appealed the people to “draw lesson from history” to reach a correct political decision.
“Our endeavour has been to make our people politically conscious and they need to draw lesson from history to make correct political decision through their own discretion and wisdom. If they are unable to take lesson from history and exercise their democratic rights fully, people will be forever betrayed and let down”, Mr. Chamling said. He appealed the people to continue to fight against all the ‘anti-people and anti-developmental elements’ within the state.
Introspecting on the early days of government formation in 1994, the Chief Minister recollected that challenges were many and with limited means to address them.
“…today we have vibrant democracy in the State with peace and tranquility as our hallmark. This is clearly reflected in the image we have projected and built about Sikkim and the Sikkimese people at the regional, national and international level”, he said.
Deliberating on rights and responsibilities, Mr. Chamling said that the two were “two sides of the same coin.” “One can not sustain in the absence of other. For the society to prosper, each member should be conscious about his rights and also fully committed to carry out his responsibility. People should be adequately empowered to be more responsible and responsive and also capable of utilizing their rights and privileges provided under democratic system,” he said.
“The dream of self-sufficient Sikkim and the self-contented Sikkimese shall not be fulfilled unless we shed off our lethargy and soft life syndrome. Every citizen will have to be more responsible towards his family, society, State and the nation,” he added.
( Source: Sikkim Express)
Saturday, August 16, 2008
PM ADDRESS TO THE NATION 15 AUG 2008
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, addressed the Nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort today. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that it has been the sincere endeavour of our Government to keep each of our promises. “We have given a new deal to rural India”, the Prime Minister said. Dr. Singh spoke about several initiatives launched for the inclusive economic growth of the country. Highlighting various steps taken for the growth of agricultural sector, the Prime Minister said that we have increased the bank credit for the sector from Rs.81,000 crore to Rs.2,25,000 crore during the past four years. “Our farms are once again green. Our godowns are once again filling up. Our farmers are once again hopeful about their future and their welfare,” he added.
Dr. Manmohan Singh took the opportunity to point out that the Government has taken important initiatives on the ‘Seven Sutras’, a term coined by him four years ago, as priorities namely, agriculture, water, education, health care, employment, urban renewal and infrastructure. The Prime Minister emphasized that “India will be transformed only when every Indian is literate, well fed, healthy and can secure gainful employment.”
The Prime Minister further stressed that his Government has been paying special attention to the development of education in the country. He said “we are establishing 6000 new high quality model schools, with at least one school in each block.” As many as 373 new colleges are being opened in backward districts besides 30 new universities, 8 new IITs, 7 new IIMs, 20 new IIITs, 5 new Indian Institutes of Science, 2 Schools of Planning and Architecture, 10 NITs, and a 1000 new polytechnics.
Wanting to see a modern India imbued by a scientific temper, the Prime Minister said “this year, we hope to send an Indian Spacecraft, Chandrayan, to the moon. It will be an important milestone in the development of our space programme.”
Promising to continue striving for the development and prosperity of the country, Dr. Singh assured “We will work hard to take the country to greater heights in all fields.”
Stating that Government has taken special measures to insulate poorer sections from the impact of rising food and fuel prices, the Prime Minister said, “We are taking determined measures to bring prices under reasonable control.” Underlining the need for atomic energy, the Prime Minister said that the nuclear agreement being negotiated with developed countries will not only end India’s nuclear isolation, but also enable us to provide electricity to meet the needs of farmers, artisans, traders and industry. The Prime Minister mentioned in his speech that recommendation of Sixth Pay Commission is a step in making Government more efficient.
Stressing upon the Government’s resolve to meet the challenge of terrorism, the Prime Minister urged upon the State Governments, all political parties, civil society groups and social and religious leaders to cooperate in rooting out terrorism from the country. Initiatives being taken to promote peace and stability in the North Eastern region and J&K will be taken forward, the Prime Minister said. Referring to the issue of providing the best facilities to the pilgrims of Shri Amarnath Shrine, Dr. Singh said that it can only be resolved in an atmosphere of peace and goodwill. He appealed to the people of Jammu & Kashmir to cooperate in establishing peace in the State.
Calling for defeating the terrorism, the Prime Minister emphasized that the terrorists and those who support them are enemies of the people of India and Pakistan and of peace in the region and the world. “If this issue of terrorism is not addressed, all the good intentions that we have for our two peoples to live in peace and harmony will be negated”, he added.
“Let us resolve today to stand together, to strengthen the unity and integrity of our country and to stand firm in our determination to build a new India of our dreams,” the Prime Minister concluded.
Following is the text of the Prime Minister’s address on the occasion:
“My dear countrymen, brothers, sisters and my dear children,
Greetings to all of you on this happy occasion of our Independence Day.
This is a sacred day for every Indian.
Today we remember the sacrifice of those who under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi fought for our freedom from foreign rule.
Today we remember the hard work and dedication of all those who have toiled to build a free and modern India. And we re-dedicate ourselves to that cause.
We remember our farmers, our workers and our teachers. We remember our soldiers - who defend our borders in snowy mountains, in deserts, in jungles, on the shores and in the oceans.
Brothers and Sisters,
Four years ago, on this day, I stood here before you and spoke to you about our Government’s new vision for a new India.
I said to you that it is our desire to build an India that is just and humane;
an India that treats all its citizens as equals;
an India that is prosperous;
an India that lives in peace;
an India in which everyone can find work suited to his or her talent and can work for his or her brighter future.
An India that is secular, that is fair and just to all its people. An India united in its diversity.
It has been our sincere endeavour to work for the building of such an India.
Brothers and Sisters,
Four years ago I stood here and said to you that I have no promises to make, but I have promises to keep.
The implementation of the National Common Minimum Programme, was our promise to keep;
To give a “new deal to rural India”, was our promise to keep;
To make our economy and society inclusive was our promise to keep;
To take India to its rightful place in the comity of nations, was our promise to keep;
It has been the sincere endeavour of our Government to keep each of these promises.
We have given a new deal to rural India.
Through the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana we are investing Rs. 25000 crore in agriculture;
To provide relief to our debt distressed farmers we have waived loans taken from the banks amounting to about Rs. 71000 crore;
In the past four years we have increased bank credit for agricultural sector from Rs 81000 crore to Rs 225000 crore, and have reduced the interest rates for farm loans;
In order to improve the economic conditions of farmers we have steeply increased the procurement prices for food grains; 50% for wheat and 30% for paddy;
The National Food Security Mission has been set up to enhance production of rice, wheat and pulses;
Irrigation, watershed development, rain fed areas development, and flood management have received our special attention;
Our effort at increasing investment in rural areas and reducing the debt burden of farmers has turned our agricultural economy around.
After almost a decade of stagnation especially from 1998 to 2004, investment in agriculture is increasing and there has been a revival in this area. We have had record production of foodgrains, cotton and sugar in 2007-08.
Our farms are once again green. Our godowns are once again filling up. Our farmers are once again hopeful about their future and their welfare.
Brothers and Sisters,
I spent the first ten years of my life in a village that had no electricity, no drinking water supply, no doctor, no roads and no phones. I had to walk many miles to a school. I had to study at night in the dim light of a kerosene lamp. After independence there has been considerable development in rural areas, yet many of our citizens still live a life that I lived in my childhood.
That is why when our Government took over, we launched Bharat Nirman, to build rural infrastructure. Our Government is committed to transforming rural India. In these four years we have taken important initiatives. I am confident that a new and prosperous India will be built due to our efforts.
My dear Countrymen,
Four years ago I spoke to you about our “Seven Sutras” – the seven priorities for our Government – agriculture, water, education, health care, employment, urban renewal and infrastructure.
In each area we have taken important initiatives. I have already spoken about our initiatives for agricultural development and farmer’s welfare.
The second important area of development has been infrastructure development. There is a new dynamism in our railways. New roads are being built. New seaports and airports are being developed.
More and more of our people now live in our cities. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Mission has been funding urban development and modernization of our cities.
The National Rural Health Mission has been expanding public health facilities and services in rural areas.
As someone who started his professional life as a teacher, I feel proud to say that our Government has been giving special attention to the development of education in our country. There is a massive increase in public investment in education at all levels. In elementary education, in secondary education and in higher education.
We have strengthened Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the mid-day meal programme upto upper primary level in all districts of the country. About 14 crore children are being provided mid-day meals under this scheme.
We are establishing 6000 new high quality model schools, with at least one school in each block. 373 new colleges are being opened in backward districts. We are opening 30 new universities, 8 new IITs, 7 new IIMs, 20 new IIITs, 5 new Indian Institutes of Science, 2 Schools of Planning and Architecture, 10 NITs, and a 1000 new polytechnics.
I have called the 11th Five Year Plan our “National Education Plan”. We want every section of our society to get access to education. Every child belonging to a family of SC, ST, OBC and all Minorities, every single child, boy or girl, must have access to modern education.
Our Government is implementing several new scholarship schemes for the educational development of our children. Schemes for pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for children hailing from SC, ST, OBC and Minority families are being implemented. Special scholarships for meritorious students from SC, ST, OBC and Minority families have also been launched. Scholarships for overseas studies are being given to SC and ST students. National merit-cum-means scholarships for children hailing from economically weakers sections and children with disabilities have also been approved.
We have established a new Skill Development Mission which will work under the supervision of the Prime Minister. A Skill Development Corporation will be created by the Government with the active participation of the private sector to give special training to our young men and women, our workers and our technicians.
I am happy to say that we are sincerely implementing most of the recommendations of the Justice Sachar Committee Report on social, economic and educational empowerment of our Muslim community.
India will be transformed only when every Indian is literate, well fed, healthy and can secure gainful employment.
I want to see a modern India, imbued by a scientific temper, where the benefits of modern knowledge flow to all sections of society. This year we hope to send an Indian space craft, Chandrayan, to the moon. It will be an important milestone in the development of our space programme.
Brothers and Sisters,
Providing employment has been a special priority for us. Our policies for agriculture, for industry, for infrastructure development and for skill development, will all promote employment.
Our beloved former Prime Minister Shrimati Indira Gandhi had said, “Garibi Hatao”. Our leader Shrimati Sonia Gandhi has given us the slogan, “Rozgar Badhao”. Our Government is making special efforts to create “rozgar” to fight “garibi”.
The National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme is a historic initiative of our Government. Today the entire country is covered by this programme. The NREGA is providing minimum livelihood support to the crores of neediest among us. It is aimed to soften the sharp edges of poverty.
To create more employment we need more investment in agriculture, in manufacturing and in infrastructure. We need a new wave of industrialization to generate more employment. If industrial development has any adverse impact on some of our rural folk, we will ensure that there is reasonable compensation and proper rehabilitation. A new Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy has been formulated and we will seek Parliament’s approval for it.
We have introduced a bill in Parliament to provide social security to the workers of the unorganized sector. Our Government has launched the Aam Aadmi Beema Yojana, under which one member of each landless family in rural areas will be insured. We have also started a programme to provide health insurance to Below Poverty Line families of workers in the unorganized sector. Citizens above 65 years of age, living below the poverty line are being covered under the Indira Gandhi Pension Scheme.
My dear countrymen,
In the past four years we have seen a sharp increase in the rate of investment. This has contributed to an increase in the rate of growth of the economy.
For the first time in history, we have had four years of nearly 9.0% economic growth. India is among the world’s fastest growing economies.
But there are new challenges that we face. We have the challenge of inflation. I know how much each one of you is concerned about the recent rise in prices. The inflation we have seen this year is basically due to external factors. All over the world and in global markets the price of food, fuel and other commodities has been rising. In many developing countries the rate of inflation is double that in India.
Our Government has worked hard to ensure that in India the rate of inflation is not as high as in many other countries. We have also taken special measures to insulate the poorer sections of our society from the full impact of rising food and fuel prices. Our Government has not raised the price of kerosene and fertilizers. We have not raised the issue price of wheat and rice under PDS.
We are taking determined measures to bring prices under reasonable control. I have urged all Chief Ministers to improve and strengthen the PDS to ensure availability of essential commodities to the common man at reasonable prices. The Reserve Bank of India is moderating the growth of money supply in the country so that inflation can be controlled. However, while making these efforts we should avoid doing anything which hurts our growth.
Brothers and Sisters,
Today, while speaking about the achievements of our Government, I wish to make one more promise. We have done much, but I realize that there is more to do. The problem of malnutrition is a curse that we must remove. Our efforts to provide every child with access to education and to improve health care services for all citizens will continue. We need to take forward our initiatives for giving equal status to women and for their social and economic empowerment. I promise to you that we will continue striving for the development and prosperity of our country. We will work hard to take the country to greater heights in all fields.
Brothers and Sisters,
We must apply modern science and technology to find long term solutions to our energy problem. Our crude oil and gas reserves are limited. We must find alternative energy sources. I would like our scientists and engineers to find ways in which we can make better use of solar energy, wind energy, bio-gas and other sources of energy.
Our economy must grow at the rate of at least ten per cent every year to get rid of poverty and generate employment for all. A basic requirement for sustained growth, and for the development of our agriculture and industry is availability of energy, particularly electricity.
All over the world, there is growing realization of the importance of atomic energy to meet the challenge of energy security and climate change. It is a clean, environmental friendly and renewable source of energy.
India’s atomic scientists and technologists are world class. They have developed nuclear energy capacities despite heavy odds. But there are handicaps which have adversely affected our atomic energy programme. We have inadequate production of uranium. The quality of our uranium resources is not comparable to those of other producers. Many countries have imposed sanctions on trade with India in nuclear materials, nuclear equipment and nuclear technology. As a result, our nuclear energy programme has suffered.
The nuclear agreement that we are negotiating with developed countries will end India’s nuclear isolation. It will open up new opportunities for trade in dual-use high technologies and nuclear materials and equipment, opening up new pathways to accelerate industrialization of our country. It will enable us to provide electricity to meet the needs of our farmers, our artisans, our traders and our industry.
Brothers and Sisters,
Four years ago I said to you that an important challenge we face is the challenge of providing good governance. We have taken several steps to make Government transparent, efficient and responsive. The Right to Information Act was one major step. We have initiated reform and modernization of Government. The National e-Governance Plan will make it easier for all our citizens to deal with the various agencies of Government.
We have completed the examination of the report of the Sixth Pay Commission. We have gone beyond the recommendations of the Commission in increasing emoluments of government employees. While doing this we have taken special care of the interests and welfare of our armed forces and para-military forces, and government employees working at lower levels in our civil services. This is one more step in making Government more efficient.
We need more reforms at all levels of Government. We want to improve our schools, our hospitals and other public services. The Panchayati Raj Institutions have an important role to play in decentralization and reform of Government. We must enhance their administrative and financial powers. I appeal to State Governments to take all possible steps for improving governance and to help in the Central Government’s initiatives.
My dear Countrymen,
Terrorism, extremism, communalism and fundamentalism have emerged as major challenges to the unity and integrity of our country. The recent terrorist attacks in Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and other parts of the country have shocked the nation. What words can I find to condemn such acts of barbarism. I share the sorrow and grief of people affected by terrorism. The Government of India will take concrete steps to rehabilitate and help such families.
I commend our security forces and intelligence agencies for the dedication with which they are dealing with the problem under difficult circumstances. But I agree that we have to further strengthen our intelligence agencies and police forces to deal with the problem of terrorism.
We will examine the functioning of our intelligence agencies and police and security forces and take all possible steps to equip them to tackle this challenge. Whatever resources are required, will be provided. Whatever manpower is required will be provided. We are firm in our resolve to meet the challenge of terrorism.
I urge the State Governments, all political parties, civil society groups and social and religious leaders to cooperate with us in rooting out terrorism from our country.
Brothers and Sisters,
I am confident that we will overcome these challenges. But this requires hard work and unity of purpose. This requires a politics of consensus, not confrontation. This requires dialogue among communities, not discord.
The challenge of communalism, of extremism and of terrorism cannot be won by a nation divided.
The challenge of environmental and ecological destruction cannot be won by a society divided.
The challenge of economic modernization and social development of all, of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, of Other Backward Classes and Minorities, cannot be won by a people divided.
Brothers and Sisters,
I have said on a number of occasions that I am greatly concerned about the problem of regional imbalances in development. Some parts of our country are doing much better than others. Some States are being left behind. This pattern has persisted for far too long. We must ensure that the less developed States catch up with the developed ones.
We must pay special attention to the development of the North-Eastern region. Our Government has taken several initiatives to increase public investment in the North-East and in Jammu & Kashmir. We are investing in infrastructure and in education in these regions to encourage development and generate employment.
Jammu & Kashmir and the North-eastern region require an era of peace for them to catch up with the more developed parts of the country. We have been taking various initiatives to promote peace and stability in these States. These initiatives will be taken forward.
The recent incidents in the State of Jammu and Kashmir are a cause for concern. In this hour of crisis, divisive politics will lead us nowhere. I appeal to all political parties to keep the long term interests of Jammu and Kashmir in view and come together to find a permanent solution to the problems of the State.
The sacred shrine of Shri Amar Nath inspires all Indians to march together. This shrine is a shining example of our secular tradition, where Hindu pilgrims have been looked after for years by their Muslim brothers. Issues related to this sacred place, especially the issue of providing the best possible facilities to pilgrims, can only be resolved in an atmosphere of peace and goodwill. Dividing people in the name of religion can complicate these issues further which can also pose a threat to the unity and integrity of the country. I appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to cooperate with us in establishing peace in the State. It is my conviction that all issues can be resolved only through dialogue and peaceful means.
Brothers and Sisters,
Our ancient Himalayas are under environmental threat. If the Himalayan glaciers recede, the flow of water in our sacred rivers will go down. Climate change can disrupt our economy in several ways. Some of our coastal areas could be submerged. Our monsoon pattern may change. We need long term solutions to such threats. A national consensus is also required for the Government to evolve effective policies to deal with these problems.
Our Government has come forward with a National Action Plan on Climate Change. This plan shows how each of us must adapt our ways of working and living and how we must treat our natural resources, so that our carbon emissions remain within reasonable limits and our environment is protected.
My fellow countrymen,
Our goal in South Asia is to seek a peaceful, stable and prosperous neighbourhood. We seek to accelerate the pace of social and economic development in our country and our region, while safeguarding our national security. Our foreign policy has been based on these principles.
We wish all our neighbours well. We welcome the strengthening of democratic forces in our neighbourhood, especially in Bhutan, Nepal and Pakistan. The recent blasts in our Embassy in Kabul have cast a shadow over our efforts to normalize relations with Pakistan and to bring a lasting and honourable peace in our region. I have personally conveyed my concern and disappointment to the Government of Pakistan.
If this issue of terrorism is not addressed, all the good intentions that we have for our two peoples to live in peace and harmony will be negated. We will not be able to pursue the peace initiatives we want to take. The terrorists and those who support them are enemies of the people of India and Pakistan, of friendship between the two countries and of peace in the region and the world. We must defeat them.
In the last year we have strengthened our relations with the major powers, Latin American countries, Arab countries and African countries. We will continue our efforts in this direction, keeping in view our national interests.
India is today viewed with respect as one of the world’s fastest growing economies. People of Indian Origin are engaged in diverse activities around the world and their capabilities are recognized the world over. Their achievements inspire us. The world today expects India to regain its due place in the comity of nations. This is a moment of opportunity for us.
We are rapidly marching forward to regain our rightful place in the comity of nations. But to reach that goal we have a lot of work to do at home. We have to overcome each of the challenges I have spoken about. We have to forge a greater unity of purpose between various political parties, between different communities, between all sections of our society, rich and poor.
We have to manage our natural and financial resources more prudently. We have an obligation to our future generations. We cannot think only for ourselves. We cannot think only about survival from day to day, from year to year and from one election to another. We have to think about the welfare and well-being of our children and grandchildren, their grandchildren and future generations.
If we resolve to work together as a nation, and work hard and with commitment to the welfare of all our people, there is nothing that we cannot do.
Let us resolve today to stand together, to strengthen the unity and integrity of our country and to stand firm in our determination to build a new India of our dreams.
My dear children, please join me in saying Jai Hind
Jai Hind
Jai Hind
Jai Hind.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh took the opportunity to point out that the Government has taken important initiatives on the ‘Seven Sutras’, a term coined by him four years ago, as priorities namely, agriculture, water, education, health care, employment, urban renewal and infrastructure. The Prime Minister emphasized that “India will be transformed only when every Indian is literate, well fed, healthy and can secure gainful employment.”
The Prime Minister further stressed that his Government has been paying special attention to the development of education in the country. He said “we are establishing 6000 new high quality model schools, with at least one school in each block.” As many as 373 new colleges are being opened in backward districts besides 30 new universities, 8 new IITs, 7 new IIMs, 20 new IIITs, 5 new Indian Institutes of Science, 2 Schools of Planning and Architecture, 10 NITs, and a 1000 new polytechnics.
Wanting to see a modern India imbued by a scientific temper, the Prime Minister said “this year, we hope to send an Indian Spacecraft, Chandrayan, to the moon. It will be an important milestone in the development of our space programme.”
Promising to continue striving for the development and prosperity of the country, Dr. Singh assured “We will work hard to take the country to greater heights in all fields.”
Stating that Government has taken special measures to insulate poorer sections from the impact of rising food and fuel prices, the Prime Minister said, “We are taking determined measures to bring prices under reasonable control.” Underlining the need for atomic energy, the Prime Minister said that the nuclear agreement being negotiated with developed countries will not only end India’s nuclear isolation, but also enable us to provide electricity to meet the needs of farmers, artisans, traders and industry. The Prime Minister mentioned in his speech that recommendation of Sixth Pay Commission is a step in making Government more efficient.
Stressing upon the Government’s resolve to meet the challenge of terrorism, the Prime Minister urged upon the State Governments, all political parties, civil society groups and social and religious leaders to cooperate in rooting out terrorism from the country. Initiatives being taken to promote peace and stability in the North Eastern region and J&K will be taken forward, the Prime Minister said. Referring to the issue of providing the best facilities to the pilgrims of Shri Amarnath Shrine, Dr. Singh said that it can only be resolved in an atmosphere of peace and goodwill. He appealed to the people of Jammu & Kashmir to cooperate in establishing peace in the State.
Calling for defeating the terrorism, the Prime Minister emphasized that the terrorists and those who support them are enemies of the people of India and Pakistan and of peace in the region and the world. “If this issue of terrorism is not addressed, all the good intentions that we have for our two peoples to live in peace and harmony will be negated”, he added.
“Let us resolve today to stand together, to strengthen the unity and integrity of our country and to stand firm in our determination to build a new India of our dreams,” the Prime Minister concluded.
Following is the text of the Prime Minister’s address on the occasion:
“My dear countrymen, brothers, sisters and my dear children,
Greetings to all of you on this happy occasion of our Independence Day.
This is a sacred day for every Indian.
Today we remember the sacrifice of those who under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi fought for our freedom from foreign rule.
Today we remember the hard work and dedication of all those who have toiled to build a free and modern India. And we re-dedicate ourselves to that cause.
We remember our farmers, our workers and our teachers. We remember our soldiers - who defend our borders in snowy mountains, in deserts, in jungles, on the shores and in the oceans.
Brothers and Sisters,
Four years ago, on this day, I stood here before you and spoke to you about our Government’s new vision for a new India.
I said to you that it is our desire to build an India that is just and humane;
an India that treats all its citizens as equals;
an India that is prosperous;
an India that lives in peace;
an India in which everyone can find work suited to his or her talent and can work for his or her brighter future.
An India that is secular, that is fair and just to all its people. An India united in its diversity.
It has been our sincere endeavour to work for the building of such an India.
Brothers and Sisters,
Four years ago I stood here and said to you that I have no promises to make, but I have promises to keep.
The implementation of the National Common Minimum Programme, was our promise to keep;
To give a “new deal to rural India”, was our promise to keep;
To make our economy and society inclusive was our promise to keep;
To take India to its rightful place in the comity of nations, was our promise to keep;
It has been the sincere endeavour of our Government to keep each of these promises.
We have given a new deal to rural India.
Through the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana we are investing Rs. 25000 crore in agriculture;
To provide relief to our debt distressed farmers we have waived loans taken from the banks amounting to about Rs. 71000 crore;
In the past four years we have increased bank credit for agricultural sector from Rs 81000 crore to Rs 225000 crore, and have reduced the interest rates for farm loans;
In order to improve the economic conditions of farmers we have steeply increased the procurement prices for food grains; 50% for wheat and 30% for paddy;
The National Food Security Mission has been set up to enhance production of rice, wheat and pulses;
Irrigation, watershed development, rain fed areas development, and flood management have received our special attention;
Our effort at increasing investment in rural areas and reducing the debt burden of farmers has turned our agricultural economy around.
After almost a decade of stagnation especially from 1998 to 2004, investment in agriculture is increasing and there has been a revival in this area. We have had record production of foodgrains, cotton and sugar in 2007-08.
Our farms are once again green. Our godowns are once again filling up. Our farmers are once again hopeful about their future and their welfare.
Brothers and Sisters,
I spent the first ten years of my life in a village that had no electricity, no drinking water supply, no doctor, no roads and no phones. I had to walk many miles to a school. I had to study at night in the dim light of a kerosene lamp. After independence there has been considerable development in rural areas, yet many of our citizens still live a life that I lived in my childhood.
That is why when our Government took over, we launched Bharat Nirman, to build rural infrastructure. Our Government is committed to transforming rural India. In these four years we have taken important initiatives. I am confident that a new and prosperous India will be built due to our efforts.
My dear Countrymen,
Four years ago I spoke to you about our “Seven Sutras” – the seven priorities for our Government – agriculture, water, education, health care, employment, urban renewal and infrastructure.
In each area we have taken important initiatives. I have already spoken about our initiatives for agricultural development and farmer’s welfare.
The second important area of development has been infrastructure development. There is a new dynamism in our railways. New roads are being built. New seaports and airports are being developed.
More and more of our people now live in our cities. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Mission has been funding urban development and modernization of our cities.
The National Rural Health Mission has been expanding public health facilities and services in rural areas.
As someone who started his professional life as a teacher, I feel proud to say that our Government has been giving special attention to the development of education in our country. There is a massive increase in public investment in education at all levels. In elementary education, in secondary education and in higher education.
We have strengthened Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the mid-day meal programme upto upper primary level in all districts of the country. About 14 crore children are being provided mid-day meals under this scheme.
We are establishing 6000 new high quality model schools, with at least one school in each block. 373 new colleges are being opened in backward districts. We are opening 30 new universities, 8 new IITs, 7 new IIMs, 20 new IIITs, 5 new Indian Institutes of Science, 2 Schools of Planning and Architecture, 10 NITs, and a 1000 new polytechnics.
I have called the 11th Five Year Plan our “National Education Plan”. We want every section of our society to get access to education. Every child belonging to a family of SC, ST, OBC and all Minorities, every single child, boy or girl, must have access to modern education.
Our Government is implementing several new scholarship schemes for the educational development of our children. Schemes for pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for children hailing from SC, ST, OBC and Minority families are being implemented. Special scholarships for meritorious students from SC, ST, OBC and Minority families have also been launched. Scholarships for overseas studies are being given to SC and ST students. National merit-cum-means scholarships for children hailing from economically weakers sections and children with disabilities have also been approved.
We have established a new Skill Development Mission which will work under the supervision of the Prime Minister. A Skill Development Corporation will be created by the Government with the active participation of the private sector to give special training to our young men and women, our workers and our technicians.
I am happy to say that we are sincerely implementing most of the recommendations of the Justice Sachar Committee Report on social, economic and educational empowerment of our Muslim community.
India will be transformed only when every Indian is literate, well fed, healthy and can secure gainful employment.
I want to see a modern India, imbued by a scientific temper, where the benefits of modern knowledge flow to all sections of society. This year we hope to send an Indian space craft, Chandrayan, to the moon. It will be an important milestone in the development of our space programme.
Brothers and Sisters,
Providing employment has been a special priority for us. Our policies for agriculture, for industry, for infrastructure development and for skill development, will all promote employment.
Our beloved former Prime Minister Shrimati Indira Gandhi had said, “Garibi Hatao”. Our leader Shrimati Sonia Gandhi has given us the slogan, “Rozgar Badhao”. Our Government is making special efforts to create “rozgar” to fight “garibi”.
The National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme is a historic initiative of our Government. Today the entire country is covered by this programme. The NREGA is providing minimum livelihood support to the crores of neediest among us. It is aimed to soften the sharp edges of poverty.
To create more employment we need more investment in agriculture, in manufacturing and in infrastructure. We need a new wave of industrialization to generate more employment. If industrial development has any adverse impact on some of our rural folk, we will ensure that there is reasonable compensation and proper rehabilitation. A new Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy has been formulated and we will seek Parliament’s approval for it.
We have introduced a bill in Parliament to provide social security to the workers of the unorganized sector. Our Government has launched the Aam Aadmi Beema Yojana, under which one member of each landless family in rural areas will be insured. We have also started a programme to provide health insurance to Below Poverty Line families of workers in the unorganized sector. Citizens above 65 years of age, living below the poverty line are being covered under the Indira Gandhi Pension Scheme.
My dear countrymen,
In the past four years we have seen a sharp increase in the rate of investment. This has contributed to an increase in the rate of growth of the economy.
For the first time in history, we have had four years of nearly 9.0% economic growth. India is among the world’s fastest growing economies.
But there are new challenges that we face. We have the challenge of inflation. I know how much each one of you is concerned about the recent rise in prices. The inflation we have seen this year is basically due to external factors. All over the world and in global markets the price of food, fuel and other commodities has been rising. In many developing countries the rate of inflation is double that in India.
Our Government has worked hard to ensure that in India the rate of inflation is not as high as in many other countries. We have also taken special measures to insulate the poorer sections of our society from the full impact of rising food and fuel prices. Our Government has not raised the price of kerosene and fertilizers. We have not raised the issue price of wheat and rice under PDS.
We are taking determined measures to bring prices under reasonable control. I have urged all Chief Ministers to improve and strengthen the PDS to ensure availability of essential commodities to the common man at reasonable prices. The Reserve Bank of India is moderating the growth of money supply in the country so that inflation can be controlled. However, while making these efforts we should avoid doing anything which hurts our growth.
Brothers and Sisters,
Today, while speaking about the achievements of our Government, I wish to make one more promise. We have done much, but I realize that there is more to do. The problem of malnutrition is a curse that we must remove. Our efforts to provide every child with access to education and to improve health care services for all citizens will continue. We need to take forward our initiatives for giving equal status to women and for their social and economic empowerment. I promise to you that we will continue striving for the development and prosperity of our country. We will work hard to take the country to greater heights in all fields.
Brothers and Sisters,
We must apply modern science and technology to find long term solutions to our energy problem. Our crude oil and gas reserves are limited. We must find alternative energy sources. I would like our scientists and engineers to find ways in which we can make better use of solar energy, wind energy, bio-gas and other sources of energy.
Our economy must grow at the rate of at least ten per cent every year to get rid of poverty and generate employment for all. A basic requirement for sustained growth, and for the development of our agriculture and industry is availability of energy, particularly electricity.
All over the world, there is growing realization of the importance of atomic energy to meet the challenge of energy security and climate change. It is a clean, environmental friendly and renewable source of energy.
India’s atomic scientists and technologists are world class. They have developed nuclear energy capacities despite heavy odds. But there are handicaps which have adversely affected our atomic energy programme. We have inadequate production of uranium. The quality of our uranium resources is not comparable to those of other producers. Many countries have imposed sanctions on trade with India in nuclear materials, nuclear equipment and nuclear technology. As a result, our nuclear energy programme has suffered.
The nuclear agreement that we are negotiating with developed countries will end India’s nuclear isolation. It will open up new opportunities for trade in dual-use high technologies and nuclear materials and equipment, opening up new pathways to accelerate industrialization of our country. It will enable us to provide electricity to meet the needs of our farmers, our artisans, our traders and our industry.
Brothers and Sisters,
Four years ago I said to you that an important challenge we face is the challenge of providing good governance. We have taken several steps to make Government transparent, efficient and responsive. The Right to Information Act was one major step. We have initiated reform and modernization of Government. The National e-Governance Plan will make it easier for all our citizens to deal with the various agencies of Government.
We have completed the examination of the report of the Sixth Pay Commission. We have gone beyond the recommendations of the Commission in increasing emoluments of government employees. While doing this we have taken special care of the interests and welfare of our armed forces and para-military forces, and government employees working at lower levels in our civil services. This is one more step in making Government more efficient.
We need more reforms at all levels of Government. We want to improve our schools, our hospitals and other public services. The Panchayati Raj Institutions have an important role to play in decentralization and reform of Government. We must enhance their administrative and financial powers. I appeal to State Governments to take all possible steps for improving governance and to help in the Central Government’s initiatives.
My dear Countrymen,
Terrorism, extremism, communalism and fundamentalism have emerged as major challenges to the unity and integrity of our country. The recent terrorist attacks in Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and other parts of the country have shocked the nation. What words can I find to condemn such acts of barbarism. I share the sorrow and grief of people affected by terrorism. The Government of India will take concrete steps to rehabilitate and help such families.
I commend our security forces and intelligence agencies for the dedication with which they are dealing with the problem under difficult circumstances. But I agree that we have to further strengthen our intelligence agencies and police forces to deal with the problem of terrorism.
We will examine the functioning of our intelligence agencies and police and security forces and take all possible steps to equip them to tackle this challenge. Whatever resources are required, will be provided. Whatever manpower is required will be provided. We are firm in our resolve to meet the challenge of terrorism.
I urge the State Governments, all political parties, civil society groups and social and religious leaders to cooperate with us in rooting out terrorism from our country.
Brothers and Sisters,
I am confident that we will overcome these challenges. But this requires hard work and unity of purpose. This requires a politics of consensus, not confrontation. This requires dialogue among communities, not discord.
The challenge of communalism, of extremism and of terrorism cannot be won by a nation divided.
The challenge of environmental and ecological destruction cannot be won by a society divided.
The challenge of economic modernization and social development of all, of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, of Other Backward Classes and Minorities, cannot be won by a people divided.
Brothers and Sisters,
I have said on a number of occasions that I am greatly concerned about the problem of regional imbalances in development. Some parts of our country are doing much better than others. Some States are being left behind. This pattern has persisted for far too long. We must ensure that the less developed States catch up with the developed ones.
We must pay special attention to the development of the North-Eastern region. Our Government has taken several initiatives to increase public investment in the North-East and in Jammu & Kashmir. We are investing in infrastructure and in education in these regions to encourage development and generate employment.
Jammu & Kashmir and the North-eastern region require an era of peace for them to catch up with the more developed parts of the country. We have been taking various initiatives to promote peace and stability in these States. These initiatives will be taken forward.
The recent incidents in the State of Jammu and Kashmir are a cause for concern. In this hour of crisis, divisive politics will lead us nowhere. I appeal to all political parties to keep the long term interests of Jammu and Kashmir in view and come together to find a permanent solution to the problems of the State.
The sacred shrine of Shri Amar Nath inspires all Indians to march together. This shrine is a shining example of our secular tradition, where Hindu pilgrims have been looked after for years by their Muslim brothers. Issues related to this sacred place, especially the issue of providing the best possible facilities to pilgrims, can only be resolved in an atmosphere of peace and goodwill. Dividing people in the name of religion can complicate these issues further which can also pose a threat to the unity and integrity of the country. I appeal to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to cooperate with us in establishing peace in the State. It is my conviction that all issues can be resolved only through dialogue and peaceful means.
Brothers and Sisters,
Our ancient Himalayas are under environmental threat. If the Himalayan glaciers recede, the flow of water in our sacred rivers will go down. Climate change can disrupt our economy in several ways. Some of our coastal areas could be submerged. Our monsoon pattern may change. We need long term solutions to such threats. A national consensus is also required for the Government to evolve effective policies to deal with these problems.
Our Government has come forward with a National Action Plan on Climate Change. This plan shows how each of us must adapt our ways of working and living and how we must treat our natural resources, so that our carbon emissions remain within reasonable limits and our environment is protected.
My fellow countrymen,
Our goal in South Asia is to seek a peaceful, stable and prosperous neighbourhood. We seek to accelerate the pace of social and economic development in our country and our region, while safeguarding our national security. Our foreign policy has been based on these principles.
We wish all our neighbours well. We welcome the strengthening of democratic forces in our neighbourhood, especially in Bhutan, Nepal and Pakistan. The recent blasts in our Embassy in Kabul have cast a shadow over our efforts to normalize relations with Pakistan and to bring a lasting and honourable peace in our region. I have personally conveyed my concern and disappointment to the Government of Pakistan.
If this issue of terrorism is not addressed, all the good intentions that we have for our two peoples to live in peace and harmony will be negated. We will not be able to pursue the peace initiatives we want to take. The terrorists and those who support them are enemies of the people of India and Pakistan, of friendship between the two countries and of peace in the region and the world. We must defeat them.
In the last year we have strengthened our relations with the major powers, Latin American countries, Arab countries and African countries. We will continue our efforts in this direction, keeping in view our national interests.
India is today viewed with respect as one of the world’s fastest growing economies. People of Indian Origin are engaged in diverse activities around the world and their capabilities are recognized the world over. Their achievements inspire us. The world today expects India to regain its due place in the comity of nations. This is a moment of opportunity for us.
We are rapidly marching forward to regain our rightful place in the comity of nations. But to reach that goal we have a lot of work to do at home. We have to overcome each of the challenges I have spoken about. We have to forge a greater unity of purpose between various political parties, between different communities, between all sections of our society, rich and poor.
We have to manage our natural and financial resources more prudently. We have an obligation to our future generations. We cannot think only for ourselves. We cannot think only about survival from day to day, from year to year and from one election to another. We have to think about the welfare and well-being of our children and grandchildren, their grandchildren and future generations.
If we resolve to work together as a nation, and work hard and with commitment to the welfare of all our people, there is nothing that we cannot do.
Let us resolve today to stand together, to strengthen the unity and integrity of our country and to stand firm in our determination to build a new India of our dreams.
My dear children, please join me in saying Jai Hind
Jai Hind
Jai Hind
Jai Hind.”
ADDL CENTRAL ASSISSTANCE TO SIKKIM
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 14: The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for grant of Additional Central Assistance to the Government of Sikkim and Union Territory of Puducherry for long-term reconstruction of the infrastructure damaged during floods of the 2005 season at a total cost of Rs.115.71 crore during 2008-09 with a grant component of Rs.84.87 crore and a loan component of Rs.30.84 crore.
This will enable the Government of Sikkim and Govt. of Puducherry to undertake long-term reconstruction of the damaged infrastructure.
GANGTOK, August 14: The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for grant of Additional Central Assistance to the Government of Sikkim and Union Territory of Puducherry for long-term reconstruction of the infrastructure damaged during floods of the 2005 season at a total cost of Rs.115.71 crore during 2008-09 with a grant component of Rs.84.87 crore and a loan component of Rs.30.84 crore.
This will enable the Government of Sikkim and Govt. of Puducherry to undertake long-term reconstruction of the damaged infrastructure.
Centre to regulate Lottery
MUMBAI: Till last month, the Union home ministry had wanted to ban the many lotteries being run in India, but pressure from various states forced the central government to allow the lotteries. However, the Centre will soon be announcing regulations that the lotteries must follow.
The commissioner for lotteries, Maharashtra, Seema Vyas said that the Union home department will soon have a meeting to allow lotteries that are regulated. In a meeting held last month over the issue of banning lotteries , Vyas strongly defended the Mahrashtra government's stand to allow lotteries . The state government feels that it is difficult to ban lotteries, and that the illegal matka racket will flourish if official lotteries are banned.
Sources in the state government said that the lottery commissioners of several states, like West Bengal, Nagaland and Sikkim, pleaded with the Centre that lotteries be allowed to continue.
However, in Mahrashtra, single-digit lotteries have been banned because of the similarity to matka. States which allow lotteries include West Bengal, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya , Sikkim, Punjab, Maharashtra , Goa and Kerala.
The commissioner for lotteries, Maharashtra, Seema Vyas said that the Union home department will soon have a meeting to allow lotteries that are regulated. In a meeting held last month over the issue of banning lotteries , Vyas strongly defended the Mahrashtra government's stand to allow lotteries . The state government feels that it is difficult to ban lotteries, and that the illegal matka racket will flourish if official lotteries are banned.
Sources in the state government said that the lottery commissioners of several states, like West Bengal, Nagaland and Sikkim, pleaded with the Centre that lotteries be allowed to continue.
However, in Mahrashtra, single-digit lotteries have been banned because of the similarity to matka. States which allow lotteries include West Bengal, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya , Sikkim, Punjab, Maharashtra , Goa and Kerala.
30% TDS ON SIKKIM LOTTERY COMMENCES
Mumbai: While Rs 7.87 crore is a large amount, Dr Kirti Patel won't be seeing all of it when her winner's cheque arrives. She will have to pay 30% as income-tax, which means a hefty Rs 2.36 crore will go to the government, leaving her with a grand total of Rs 5.5 crore.
Patel will also have a long enough wait to think of what she would like to do with the money. Amar Sinha, chief executive officer of the lottery, said that it will take at least three to six months before she gets the prize. "After completing the formalities, the government of Sikkim will send the prize amount to us and we will hand it over to Patel,'' said Sinha.
The retailer who sold the winning ticket to Patel will find himself richer by Rs 7 lakh.
Patel will also have a long enough wait to think of what she would like to do with the money. Amar Sinha, chief executive officer of the lottery, said that it will take at least three to six months before she gets the prize. "After completing the formalities, the government of Sikkim will send the prize amount to us and we will hand it over to Patel,'' said Sinha.
The retailer who sold the winning ticket to Patel will find himself richer by Rs 7 lakh.
Friday, August 15, 2008
PRESIDENT ON INDEPENDENCE DAY
President calls for ever-Green Revolution
15 Aug, 2008,
NEW DELHI: At a time when India's Green Revolution in agriculture was derided overseas, President Pratibha Patil on Thursday pushed for its second version to ensure the country's food security and development.
"We must not forget that the food security of India is dependent on the growth of its agriculture," Patil said in her address to the nation on the eve of India's 62nd Independence Day.
"We should aim at enhancing productivity by using better technology and innovative farming practices, with the active participation of the panchayats (village councils)," the president said.
"At the same time, our scientists and agricultural research institutes must work to usher in a second Green Revolution, which, along with agro-biotechnology, can translate into an ever-Green Revolution in India."
The president's remarks came against the backdrop of remarks by Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, that the Green Revolution in India only worked for a "short time" and was now leading to "disasters".
"Look at India's Green Revolution. It worked for a short time but now the price is being paid," Charles, an environmentalist and campaigner against genetically modified food, told the Daily Telegraph of London.
"I have been to the Punjab where you have seen the disasters that have taken place as a result of the over-demand on irrigation because of the hybrid seeds and grains that have been produced which demand huge amounts of water."
President Patil said she had always advocated that special attention needed to be given to the development of agriculture and rural areas, as 70 percent of India's population still lived in villages and depended on farming.
"Therefore, the development of India will not be comprehensive or complete till there is development in rural areas and increased agricultural productivity," said Patil in her second such address after assuming office on July 25 last
15 Aug, 2008,
NEW DELHI: At a time when India's Green Revolution in agriculture was derided overseas, President Pratibha Patil on Thursday pushed for its second version to ensure the country's food security and development.
"We must not forget that the food security of India is dependent on the growth of its agriculture," Patil said in her address to the nation on the eve of India's 62nd Independence Day.
"We should aim at enhancing productivity by using better technology and innovative farming practices, with the active participation of the panchayats (village councils)," the president said.
"At the same time, our scientists and agricultural research institutes must work to usher in a second Green Revolution, which, along with agro-biotechnology, can translate into an ever-Green Revolution in India."
The president's remarks came against the backdrop of remarks by Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, that the Green Revolution in India only worked for a "short time" and was now leading to "disasters".
"Look at India's Green Revolution. It worked for a short time but now the price is being paid," Charles, an environmentalist and campaigner against genetically modified food, told the Daily Telegraph of London.
"I have been to the Punjab where you have seen the disasters that have taken place as a result of the over-demand on irrigation because of the hybrid seeds and grains that have been produced which demand huge amounts of water."
President Patil said she had always advocated that special attention needed to be given to the development of agriculture and rural areas, as 70 percent of India's population still lived in villages and depended on farming.
"Therefore, the development of India will not be comprehensive or complete till there is development in rural areas and increased agricultural productivity," said Patil in her second such address after assuming office on July 25 last
M G MARG PHASE II
MG Marg second phase beautification to be completed by September
NIRMAL MANGAR
GANGTOK, August 13: The second phase of the beautification of the MG Marg from the Kiran Dry Cleaners point up to Star Cinema Hall is expected to be over by September this year, just in time for the festive seasons.
The people can enjoy the pedestal walks from the last week of August itself.
C. Zangpo, the additional Chief Engineer of the State Urban Development and Housing Department confirmed this here today.
Informing that the pace of work was in its full swing to meet the deadline, the chief engineer said that some of the problems like incessant rains and the installation of water supply lines and sewerage pipes were hindering the work progress.
“We have to co-operate with them as it is also a part of the beautification of the Marg,” Mr. Zangpo said.
The beautification of the New Market stretch of the Marg would cover an area of 270 meters.
The new look of the second half of MG Marg would be different from the Old Market stretch.
As per the proposed plan, there would be a pedestrian walk at either side of the New Market stretch while the middle black top road would be used for the one way vehicular movement of the vehicles plying from Tibet Road towards Nam Nang.
According to the chief engineer, kaddapa stones would be laid on one side of the pedestrian walk and the entire building housing the tailors and handicrafts showroom would be dismantled to give way for a spacey sit outs with chairs similar to that of the Titanic park.
“We have already shifted the tailors temporarily to the Old Children’s Park complex. We will later relocate them to the top floor of the Khanchendzonga Shopping Plaza at the Lall Market here,” Mr. Zangpo informed.
He further said that the installations of horizontal foaming fountains in four different locations of the stretch would be an added feature this time. It was also informed that colouring of rooftops in green would also be made mandatory for all the building owners.
The cost of the renovation of the second phase of MG Marg is Rs 4 crores while the total estimated cost of the renovation of MG Marg from Titanic park to Star Cinema hall is approximately Rs 9 crores.
NIRMAL MANGAR
GANGTOK, August 13: The second phase of the beautification of the MG Marg from the Kiran Dry Cleaners point up to Star Cinema Hall is expected to be over by September this year, just in time for the festive seasons.
The people can enjoy the pedestal walks from the last week of August itself.
C. Zangpo, the additional Chief Engineer of the State Urban Development and Housing Department confirmed this here today.
Informing that the pace of work was in its full swing to meet the deadline, the chief engineer said that some of the problems like incessant rains and the installation of water supply lines and sewerage pipes were hindering the work progress.
“We have to co-operate with them as it is also a part of the beautification of the Marg,” Mr. Zangpo said.
The beautification of the New Market stretch of the Marg would cover an area of 270 meters.
The new look of the second half of MG Marg would be different from the Old Market stretch.
As per the proposed plan, there would be a pedestrian walk at either side of the New Market stretch while the middle black top road would be used for the one way vehicular movement of the vehicles plying from Tibet Road towards Nam Nang.
According to the chief engineer, kaddapa stones would be laid on one side of the pedestrian walk and the entire building housing the tailors and handicrafts showroom would be dismantled to give way for a spacey sit outs with chairs similar to that of the Titanic park.
“We have already shifted the tailors temporarily to the Old Children’s Park complex. We will later relocate them to the top floor of the Khanchendzonga Shopping Plaza at the Lall Market here,” Mr. Zangpo informed.
He further said that the installations of horizontal foaming fountains in four different locations of the stretch would be an added feature this time. It was also informed that colouring of rooftops in green would also be made mandatory for all the building owners.
The cost of the renovation of the second phase of MG Marg is Rs 4 crores while the total estimated cost of the renovation of MG Marg from Titanic park to Star Cinema hall is approximately Rs 9 crores.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
WEALTH TAX IN SIKKIM
Sikkimese individuals not exempted from Wealth Tax: BJP
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 13: The Sikkim State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said that the Sikkimese individuals are not exempted from Wealth Tax.
Vandana Ramachandran of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India has said this in a reply when the BJP sought information whether Sikkimese individuals are exempted from Wealth Tax, Gift Tax, Property Tax.
“Wealth Tax is chargeable @ 1% of net wealth exceeding Rs. 15, 00, 000. There is no gift tax liability as gift tax has been abolished. Property tax is not a direct tax since it is a tax levied by local municipal authorities on property,” it was informed.
In a party communiqué, general secretary, CB Chettri has said that any Sikkimese having assets as movable and immovable combined together above Rs 15 lakhs may have to pay wealth tax.
“This is nothing but imposition of tax which Sikkimese had never paid earlier. Let the SDF party and the SDF Government explain the fall out of this to the people of Sikkim,” he said.
Reiterated that the extension of Indian Income tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual is the dilution of the provision of the Article 371 F (k) of the Constitution of India and that there is nothing to celebrate by the SDF party and the SDF Government, the general secretary, Sikkim State maintained that the income tax exemption to Sikkimese individual could have been probably given even by amendment of the Sikkim Income Tax Manual.
“It was rumored there was some secrete understanding reached before extending the Indian Income Tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual. One of the understandings might be the extension of the Wealth tax,” the release added.
SE Report
GANGTOK, August 13: The Sikkim State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said that the Sikkimese individuals are not exempted from Wealth Tax.
Vandana Ramachandran of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India has said this in a reply when the BJP sought information whether Sikkimese individuals are exempted from Wealth Tax, Gift Tax, Property Tax.
“Wealth Tax is chargeable @ 1% of net wealth exceeding Rs. 15, 00, 000. There is no gift tax liability as gift tax has been abolished. Property tax is not a direct tax since it is a tax levied by local municipal authorities on property,” it was informed.
In a party communiqué, general secretary, CB Chettri has said that any Sikkimese having assets as movable and immovable combined together above Rs 15 lakhs may have to pay wealth tax.
“This is nothing but imposition of tax which Sikkimese had never paid earlier. Let the SDF party and the SDF Government explain the fall out of this to the people of Sikkim,” he said.
Reiterated that the extension of Indian Income tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual is the dilution of the provision of the Article 371 F (k) of the Constitution of India and that there is nothing to celebrate by the SDF party and the SDF Government, the general secretary, Sikkim State maintained that the income tax exemption to Sikkimese individual could have been probably given even by amendment of the Sikkim Income Tax Manual.
“It was rumored there was some secrete understanding reached before extending the Indian Income Tax with exemption to Sikkimese individual. One of the understandings might be the extension of the Wealth tax,” the release added.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
SINGTAM SUGAR FREE ORGANIC DRINK
GFPF offers sugar free organic drinks
SHIVADEEP RAI
Singtam: Taking into account the diabetic scenario of Sikkim, Government Fruit Preservation Factory, (GFPF), Singtam, launched organic sugar free Pear Fruit Drink, Passion Fruit Drink, Orange Fruit Drink and Ginger Drink in 200 ml bottle on August 7.
All the drinks are RTS (ready to serve) drinks which can be consumed directly without addition of water. Other new products, namely, Aakashey Chilli with curd and Pear Squash were simultaneously launched on the day. Many more are in the pipeline, it is learnt.
The RTS drinks will be available in the market with GFPF’s brand name ‘Sikkim Supreme’ at the rate of Rs 15 per 200 ml bottle. The Pear Squash would be available for Rs 43 per 700 ml bottle and Aakashay chilli can be obtained at Rs 10 per pouch.
GFPF has acquired 4.5 metric tonnes of Aakashay chilli from Zoom till date for producing different products. Pears are being obtained from Kabrey, Sadam, Burmeik and Soreng in Sikkim. GFPF has also utilized tomatoes in bulk to produce different tomato products like tomato juice (RTS), tomato chilli sauce ‘Chatak Matak’, tomato chutney and hot and sweet tomato ketchup with dallae flavor, which are already in the market. About 30 metric tonnes tomato were procured from Sadam, Daramdin and Tashiding.
With its organic products, GFPF has done business of Rs 63, 38, 384 from April 2008 to August 6.
GFPF has taken the initiative of acquiring organic produces from the local growers and utilizing it for producing various kinds of organic products as per the direction by Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling. The given policy is to encourage organic farming in the state by giving incentive to the local farmers, it is informed.
( source: Sikkim Reporter)
SHIVADEEP RAI
Singtam: Taking into account the diabetic scenario of Sikkim, Government Fruit Preservation Factory, (GFPF), Singtam, launched organic sugar free Pear Fruit Drink, Passion Fruit Drink, Orange Fruit Drink and Ginger Drink in 200 ml bottle on August 7.
All the drinks are RTS (ready to serve) drinks which can be consumed directly without addition of water. Other new products, namely, Aakashey Chilli with curd and Pear Squash were simultaneously launched on the day. Many more are in the pipeline, it is learnt.
The RTS drinks will be available in the market with GFPF’s brand name ‘Sikkim Supreme’ at the rate of Rs 15 per 200 ml bottle. The Pear Squash would be available for Rs 43 per 700 ml bottle and Aakashay chilli can be obtained at Rs 10 per pouch.
GFPF has acquired 4.5 metric tonnes of Aakashay chilli from Zoom till date for producing different products. Pears are being obtained from Kabrey, Sadam, Burmeik and Soreng in Sikkim. GFPF has also utilized tomatoes in bulk to produce different tomato products like tomato juice (RTS), tomato chilli sauce ‘Chatak Matak’, tomato chutney and hot and sweet tomato ketchup with dallae flavor, which are already in the market. About 30 metric tonnes tomato were procured from Sadam, Daramdin and Tashiding.
With its organic products, GFPF has done business of Rs 63, 38, 384 from April 2008 to August 6.
GFPF has taken the initiative of acquiring organic produces from the local growers and utilizing it for producing various kinds of organic products as per the direction by Chief Minister Dr Pawan Chamling. The given policy is to encourage organic farming in the state by giving incentive to the local farmers, it is informed.
( source: Sikkim Reporter)
VAT TO HIKE BY 1% NEXT YEAR
VAT to pinch harder next year, States told to hike rate by 1%
GANGTOK, August 08: Get ready for a post-election tax hike. The finance ministry has once again asked the State Governments to consider increasing the 4% value added tax (VAT) on intermediate goods by 1% from 2009-10.
Consequently, the prices of a horde of products such as flour, rice, wheat, pulses, edible oils, drugs, kerosene oil, paper, matches, sewing machines and bicycles may rise from next fiscal.
The Centre’s proposal is a part of its ongoing dialogue with states to hammer out a compensation package for them to meet the revenue loss arising from the reduction in the central sales tax (CST). The 1% increase in the VAT rate was originally scheduled for this fiscal.
Many states, however, refused to do so due to approaching elections and also because of higher inflation. It may be noted that the stalemate over this issue had also led to the delay in a further reduction of CST to 2% this year. The Centre had to finally agree to provide monetary compensation of over Rs 6,000 crore to states.
However, North Block is of the view that it will not be able to provide more monetary support to states from 2009-10, when the CST rate is cut to 1%. States should instead consider looking at additional sources of revenue generation such as hiking the VAT rate. It also expects inflation to cool down by next year, so increasing the tax rate will not have a very huge impact.
The empowered committee of state finance ministers is expected to discuss the issue in its next meeting later this month and try to build a consensus on it over the course of the year.
A two-stage VAT rate hike was in fact a part of the original compensation package agreed upon between the Centre and the states in January 2007. According to the decision taken then, states were expected to increase the VAT rate from 4% to 5% in 2008-09 and then to 6% from 2009-10. In addition, they will also get the power to levy service tax on 77 services along with monetary compensation from the Centre.
GANGTOK, August 08: Get ready for a post-election tax hike. The finance ministry has once again asked the State Governments to consider increasing the 4% value added tax (VAT) on intermediate goods by 1% from 2009-10.
Consequently, the prices of a horde of products such as flour, rice, wheat, pulses, edible oils, drugs, kerosene oil, paper, matches, sewing machines and bicycles may rise from next fiscal.
The Centre’s proposal is a part of its ongoing dialogue with states to hammer out a compensation package for them to meet the revenue loss arising from the reduction in the central sales tax (CST). The 1% increase in the VAT rate was originally scheduled for this fiscal.
Many states, however, refused to do so due to approaching elections and also because of higher inflation. It may be noted that the stalemate over this issue had also led to the delay in a further reduction of CST to 2% this year. The Centre had to finally agree to provide monetary compensation of over Rs 6,000 crore to states.
However, North Block is of the view that it will not be able to provide more monetary support to states from 2009-10, when the CST rate is cut to 1%. States should instead consider looking at additional sources of revenue generation such as hiking the VAT rate. It also expects inflation to cool down by next year, so increasing the tax rate will not have a very huge impact.
The empowered committee of state finance ministers is expected to discuss the issue in its next meeting later this month and try to build a consensus on it over the course of the year.
A two-stage VAT rate hike was in fact a part of the original compensation package agreed upon between the Centre and the states in January 2007. According to the decision taken then, states were expected to increase the VAT rate from 4% to 5% in 2008-09 and then to 6% from 2009-10. In addition, they will also get the power to levy service tax on 77 services along with monetary compensation from the Centre.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
MORE NEWS ON INCOME TAX
Gangtok, 6 August: All the Sikkim Subject holders have been exempted from the Central Direct income Tax from 2008 except for those residing in Sikkim without Sikkim subjects who still have to pay the income tax to the central government as per the information given by TT Dorjee, Additional Chief Secretary cum Principal Secretary for Finance, Revenue & Expenditure Department Government of Sikkim in his inaugural speech in the seminar,which was held on 24 July 2008.Today the office of the income tax, Government of India was inaugurated at Bhanupath, Gangtok.
The Inaugural occasion of the income tax office was graced by the presence of Bonani Gosh, Commissioner, Income Tax, AK Pramanik, Assistant officer Income Tax along with the members from the different bussiness associations. Bonani Gosh, Commissioner, Income Tax appealed to all the businessmen to cooperate with them thereby paying their taxes regularly. While speaking with the press people, Commissioner said that, actually Government of India was Planning to establish the office of income tax in 1984, but due to some unavoidable political reason the central was unable to do so, but presently after having a prolonged discussion with the State government, the Central government has come up with the office in Sikkim. For the time being the office will be guided under the authority of the siliguri branch of Income tax ,he added .
A Series of workshop and seminar on Income Taxes will be held in Sikkim under different level. The Direct income tax have been enforced from 2008 to the entire non Sikkim subjects holder as per Income Tax Act 1961. At the same time Bonani Gosh, informed that, there will be four officers in Sikkim with LD Lepcha as Income Tax Officer, Tshering Ongda as Assistant Commissioner including Additional Commissioner and Commissioner.
Roshan Rai
The Inaugural occasion of the income tax office was graced by the presence of Bonani Gosh, Commissioner, Income Tax, AK Pramanik, Assistant officer Income Tax along with the members from the different bussiness associations. Bonani Gosh, Commissioner, Income Tax appealed to all the businessmen to cooperate with them thereby paying their taxes regularly. While speaking with the press people, Commissioner said that, actually Government of India was Planning to establish the office of income tax in 1984, but due to some unavoidable political reason the central was unable to do so, but presently after having a prolonged discussion with the State government, the Central government has come up with the office in Sikkim. For the time being the office will be guided under the authority of the siliguri branch of Income tax ,he added .
A Series of workshop and seminar on Income Taxes will be held in Sikkim under different level. The Direct income tax have been enforced from 2008 to the entire non Sikkim subjects holder as per Income Tax Act 1961. At the same time Bonani Gosh, informed that, there will be four officers in Sikkim with LD Lepcha as Income Tax Officer, Tshering Ongda as Assistant Commissioner including Additional Commissioner and Commissioner.
Roshan Rai
INCOME TAX CONFUSION
Sikkim taxpayers confused over terms of circular
Sarikah Atreya
(Business Line)
Gangtok, Aug 8 It has been barely two days since the new Income-Tax Office in the State was inaugurated, but taxpayers here seem to be a confused lot.
The confusion stems from a July 29 circular issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes, which has sought to clarify the position and the mechanism of Central direct taxes in Sikkim.
The people who come under the purview of direct taxes said they were confused over Section 2 (d) of the circular which says that “for the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provision of the Income-Tax Act, 1961” — this refers to the financial year 2007-08. In simpler terms, the people have to file their income-tax returns for the financial year 2007-08 according to the notification.
Taxing issues
This means the members of the business community and government employees in Sikkim, who have already paid their taxes under State Income-Tax Manual, 1948, may be subject to a dose of double taxation.
“How can we be double-taxed because we have already paid our taxes under State Income Tax Manual till June 16, 2008. There is no question of double taxation,” a businessmen said.
“We were of the view that the Central direct taxes would come into effect from April 1, 2008, which means the assessment year would be for 2009-10 and the financial year would be 2008-09,” he said.
Ms Bonani Ghosh, Commissioner of Income-Tax, told Business Line that the matter had been taken up with the Chief Commissioner based in Kolkata.
Sarikah Atreya
(Business Line)
Gangtok, Aug 8 It has been barely two days since the new Income-Tax Office in the State was inaugurated, but taxpayers here seem to be a confused lot.
The confusion stems from a July 29 circular issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes, which has sought to clarify the position and the mechanism of Central direct taxes in Sikkim.
The people who come under the purview of direct taxes said they were confused over Section 2 (d) of the circular which says that “for the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provision of the Income-Tax Act, 1961” — this refers to the financial year 2007-08. In simpler terms, the people have to file their income-tax returns for the financial year 2007-08 according to the notification.
Taxing issues
This means the members of the business community and government employees in Sikkim, who have already paid their taxes under State Income-Tax Manual, 1948, may be subject to a dose of double taxation.
“How can we be double-taxed because we have already paid our taxes under State Income Tax Manual till June 16, 2008. There is no question of double taxation,” a businessmen said.
“We were of the view that the Central direct taxes would come into effect from April 1, 2008, which means the assessment year would be for 2009-10 and the financial year would be 2008-09,” he said.
Ms Bonani Ghosh, Commissioner of Income-Tax, told Business Line that the matter had been taken up with the Chief Commissioner based in Kolkata.
Friday, August 8, 2008
IMPORTANT INCOME TAX ANNOUNCEMENT
INSTRUCTION NO 8/2008,
Dated: July 29, 2008
ORDER UNDER SECTION 119(2)(a) OF THE INCOME TAX ACT, 1961
Vide Finance Act, 2008, a new clause (26AAA) has been inserted in section 10 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 ('Act') with retrospective effect from assessment year 1990-91. Under the said clause, the following income accruing or arising to a Sikkimese individual is exempt from tax-
(a) income from any source in the State of Sikkim; or
(b) income by way of dividend or interest on securities.For the purposes of the clause, "Sikkimese" has been defined in the Explanation thereto.
2.Income accruing or arising to a non-Sikkimese individual residing in the State of Sikkim continues to be liable to tax under the Act.
In the case of such individuals, it has been decided that-(a) For assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year, no assessment or reassessment shall be made with regard to the income-
(i) income from any source in the State of Sikkim; or
(ii) income by way of dividend or interest on securities.
(b) In case any proceedings have been initiated for assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year for not filing the return of income, such proceedings shall be dropped.
(c) In case any assessment or reassessment proceeding has been initiated for assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year and assessment orders have not been passed, the aforesaid income shall be accepted as per the return.
(d) For the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
3. These instructions shall apply only to non-Sikkimese individuals residing in the State of Sikkim.
F.No.153/19/2007-TPL
Vandana Ramachandran) Under Secretary to the Govt. of India
Dated: July 29, 2008
ORDER UNDER SECTION 119(2)(a) OF THE INCOME TAX ACT, 1961
Vide Finance Act, 2008, a new clause (26AAA) has been inserted in section 10 of the Income Tax Act, 1961 ('Act') with retrospective effect from assessment year 1990-91. Under the said clause, the following income accruing or arising to a Sikkimese individual is exempt from tax-
(a) income from any source in the State of Sikkim; or
(b) income by way of dividend or interest on securities.For the purposes of the clause, "Sikkimese" has been defined in the Explanation thereto.
2.Income accruing or arising to a non-Sikkimese individual residing in the State of Sikkim continues to be liable to tax under the Act.
In the case of such individuals, it has been decided that-(a) For assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year, no assessment or reassessment shall be made with regard to the income-
(i) income from any source in the State of Sikkim; or
(ii) income by way of dividend or interest on securities.
(b) In case any proceedings have been initiated for assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year for not filing the return of income, such proceedings shall be dropped.
(c) In case any assessment or reassessment proceeding has been initiated for assessment year 2007-08 or any preceding assessment year and assessment orders have not been passed, the aforesaid income shall be accepted as per the return.
(d) For the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
3. These instructions shall apply only to non-Sikkimese individuals residing in the State of Sikkim.
F.No.153/19/2007-TPL
Vandana Ramachandran) Under Secretary to the Govt. of India
CONFUSION OVER INCOME TAX IN SIKKIM
Confusions reigns as income tax payers go through teething problems
Staff Reporter
(Sikkim Express)
GANGTOK, August 07: Barely a day after the new Income Tax Office in the State was inaugurated, taxpayers here seem to be a confused lot.
Most of the people are in a dilemma over the circular issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India dated July 29, 2008, which has clarified the position and the mechanism of Central Direct Taxes in Sikkim.
The people who comes under the purview of the Central direct taxes said that they are confused with the section 2 (d) of the circular which mentions ‘for the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provision of the income tax Act, 1961 which means for the financial year 2007-08. In simpler terms, the people have to file their income tax return for the financial year 2007-08 as per the notification.
Members of the business community and government employees in Sikkim, who have already paid taxes under State Income Tax Manual, 1948 are worried that they might have to go for double taxation.
“How can we be double taxed because we have already paid our taxes under State Income Tax Manual till June 16, 2008. There is no questions of double taxing,” one of the businessmen told SIKKIM EXPRESS requesting anonymity.
“We were of the notion that the Central Direct taxes would come into be effect from April 1, 2008 retrospectively which means the year of assessment would be 2009- 2010 and the financial year would be 2008-2009.
However, the major lacuna for the businesspersons here is the unavailability of the book of accounts, which they failed to maintain.
“The matter of paying Income Tax came in effect only after the budget session which was held earlier this year and till that time we were totally unaware to maintain our book of accounts,” added another person.
While Speaking with SIKKIM EXPRESS over the phone, Bonani Ghosh, the Commissioner of Income Tax Department, Government of India told that the matter has been taken up seriously and that she would appraise the matter with the Chief Commissioner in Kolkata. “The Chief Commissioner will forward the letter to the Central Board of Direct taxes seeking clear idea about the notification,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has been regularly stating that an effort would be made to follow the Ladakh Model, through which even the people without Sikkim Subjects especially the business communities would be exempted in paying the Central Direct taxes.
Staff Reporter
(Sikkim Express)
GANGTOK, August 07: Barely a day after the new Income Tax Office in the State was inaugurated, taxpayers here seem to be a confused lot.
Most of the people are in a dilemma over the circular issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes under the Ministry of Finance, Government of India dated July 29, 2008, which has clarified the position and the mechanism of Central Direct Taxes in Sikkim.
The people who comes under the purview of the Central direct taxes said that they are confused with the section 2 (d) of the circular which mentions ‘for the assessment year 2008-09 and subsequent assessment years, assessment or re-assessment, if required, shall be made in accordance with the provision of the income tax Act, 1961 which means for the financial year 2007-08. In simpler terms, the people have to file their income tax return for the financial year 2007-08 as per the notification.
Members of the business community and government employees in Sikkim, who have already paid taxes under State Income Tax Manual, 1948 are worried that they might have to go for double taxation.
“How can we be double taxed because we have already paid our taxes under State Income Tax Manual till June 16, 2008. There is no questions of double taxing,” one of the businessmen told SIKKIM EXPRESS requesting anonymity.
“We were of the notion that the Central Direct taxes would come into be effect from April 1, 2008 retrospectively which means the year of assessment would be 2009- 2010 and the financial year would be 2008-2009.
However, the major lacuna for the businesspersons here is the unavailability of the book of accounts, which they failed to maintain.
“The matter of paying Income Tax came in effect only after the budget session which was held earlier this year and till that time we were totally unaware to maintain our book of accounts,” added another person.
While Speaking with SIKKIM EXPRESS over the phone, Bonani Ghosh, the Commissioner of Income Tax Department, Government of India told that the matter has been taken up seriously and that she would appraise the matter with the Chief Commissioner in Kolkata. “The Chief Commissioner will forward the letter to the Central Board of Direct taxes seeking clear idea about the notification,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has been regularly stating that an effort would be made to follow the Ladakh Model, through which even the people without Sikkim Subjects especially the business communities would be exempted in paying the Central Direct taxes.
QUOTE
India, poised for taking big leaps in the 21st century, cannot be seen to be at war with itself
- Tribune
- Tribune
OVERSEAS INDIANS
Three lakhs granted Overseas Citizen status USA leads with over 1,20,000 overseas citizens of India
The number of India's Overseas Citizens is about to touch the three lakh figure. The grant of such status to these many overseas Indians has taken place within less than three years time. Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) facilitates life-long visa-free travel to India and certain economic, educational and cultural benefits.
The exact number of people granted overseas citizenship status till 31st July 2008 is 2, 85,611. Out of them, over 1, 20,000 are from the United States. Other countries where sizeable numbers have been given overseas citizenship of India are UK, Canada and Australia and Sri Lanka.
The scheme came in to operation from December 2, 2005 in response to a long and persistent demand for "dual citizenship" particularly from overseas Indians in North America and the western world. The decision was also based on the Government's deep commitment towards fulfilling the aspirations and expectations of Overseas Indians. Any Overseas Indian applicant who is comfortable with his present citizenship status in the country of his residence can apply for OCI. The OCI is not to be construed as 'dual citizenship' since it does not confer political rights.
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had announced at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2005 held in Mumbai the grant of Overseas Citizenship of India to all Persons of Indian Origin where local laws permit "dual citizenship" in some form or the other except Pakistan and Bangladesh.
India has the second largest Diaspora in the world. The overseas Indian community estimated at over 25 million is spread across every major region in the world. It constitutes a diverse, heterogeneous and eclectic global community representing different regions, languages, cultures and faiths. The common thread that binds them together is the idea of India and its intrinsic values. Overseas Indians comprise People of Indian Origin (PIO) and Non Resident Indians (NRI) and today are amongst the best educated and successful communities in the world. In every part of the world the overseas Indian community is recognised and respected for its hard work, discipline, non-interference and for successfully integrating with the local community. Overseas Indians have made significant contributions to the economy of the country of residence and have added in considerable measure to knowledge and innovation.
The Ministry of Overseas Affairs has taken up the Mission to promote, nurture and sustain a mutually beneficial and symbolic relationship between Indians and Overseas Indians. The Ministry seeks to offer customized solutions to meet the varied expectations of the overseas Indian community and lends a strategic dimension to India's engagement with the Diaspora. The expanding number of overseas Indian citizens is part of the government's efforts in this direction.
The number of India's Overseas Citizens is about to touch the three lakh figure. The grant of such status to these many overseas Indians has taken place within less than three years time. Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) facilitates life-long visa-free travel to India and certain economic, educational and cultural benefits.
The exact number of people granted overseas citizenship status till 31st July 2008 is 2, 85,611. Out of them, over 1, 20,000 are from the United States. Other countries where sizeable numbers have been given overseas citizenship of India are UK, Canada and Australia and Sri Lanka.
The scheme came in to operation from December 2, 2005 in response to a long and persistent demand for "dual citizenship" particularly from overseas Indians in North America and the western world. The decision was also based on the Government's deep commitment towards fulfilling the aspirations and expectations of Overseas Indians. Any Overseas Indian applicant who is comfortable with his present citizenship status in the country of his residence can apply for OCI. The OCI is not to be construed as 'dual citizenship' since it does not confer political rights.
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had announced at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2005 held in Mumbai the grant of Overseas Citizenship of India to all Persons of Indian Origin where local laws permit "dual citizenship" in some form or the other except Pakistan and Bangladesh.
India has the second largest Diaspora in the world. The overseas Indian community estimated at over 25 million is spread across every major region in the world. It constitutes a diverse, heterogeneous and eclectic global community representing different regions, languages, cultures and faiths. The common thread that binds them together is the idea of India and its intrinsic values. Overseas Indians comprise People of Indian Origin (PIO) and Non Resident Indians (NRI) and today are amongst the best educated and successful communities in the world. In every part of the world the overseas Indian community is recognised and respected for its hard work, discipline, non-interference and for successfully integrating with the local community. Overseas Indians have made significant contributions to the economy of the country of residence and have added in considerable measure to knowledge and innovation.
The Ministry of Overseas Affairs has taken up the Mission to promote, nurture and sustain a mutually beneficial and symbolic relationship between Indians and Overseas Indians. The Ministry seeks to offer customized solutions to meet the varied expectations of the overseas Indian community and lends a strategic dimension to India's engagement with the Diaspora. The expanding number of overseas Indian citizens is part of the government's efforts in this direction.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
INCOME TAX OFFICE IN SIKKIM
Gangtok, Aug. 6: Sikkim today formally came under the purview of the central income tax act with the opening of the first income tax office here this afternoon.
Initially, around 10 per cent of the state’s total population of 5.4 lakh will come under the assessment of the tax. However, Sikkim Subject Domicile and holders of Certificate of Identification are exempt from paying the tax.
Bonani Ghosh, the commissioner of the income tax department (north Bengal and Sikkim), said after the inauguration of the new office: “The assessment year will be 2008-2009. This has already been agreed upon between the state and the Centre.”
Assistant commissioner A.K. Pramanik of the Siliguri office will also oversee the Sikkim operations through four employees posted at Gangtok. The new office is housed in a government quarters above Bhanupath on the way to the secretariat.
Pankaj Saxena, the general manager of a hotel here, was the first to file his individual return. His chartered accountant handed over the details of his income to the commissioner.
“I appeal to all members of the business community and the state government to make this a smooth operation,” the commissioner said.
A series of workshops will be conducted by the office soon to answer the queries of those who will now have to pay the Central Income Tax.
The Income Tax Act of 1961 had been extended to the state in 1989 but had not been enforced because of stiff opposition from residents, who felt it would overrule the old laws of Sikkim protected under Article 371 (f) of the Constitution.
( Source: The Telegraph)
Initially, around 10 per cent of the state’s total population of 5.4 lakh will come under the assessment of the tax. However, Sikkim Subject Domicile and holders of Certificate of Identification are exempt from paying the tax.
Bonani Ghosh, the commissioner of the income tax department (north Bengal and Sikkim), said after the inauguration of the new office: “The assessment year will be 2008-2009. This has already been agreed upon between the state and the Centre.”
Assistant commissioner A.K. Pramanik of the Siliguri office will also oversee the Sikkim operations through four employees posted at Gangtok. The new office is housed in a government quarters above Bhanupath on the way to the secretariat.
Pankaj Saxena, the general manager of a hotel here, was the first to file his individual return. His chartered accountant handed over the details of his income to the commissioner.
“I appeal to all members of the business community and the state government to make this a smooth operation,” the commissioner said.
A series of workshops will be conducted by the office soon to answer the queries of those who will now have to pay the Central Income Tax.
The Income Tax Act of 1961 had been extended to the state in 1989 but had not been enforced because of stiff opposition from residents, who felt it would overrule the old laws of Sikkim protected under Article 371 (f) of the Constitution.
( Source: The Telegraph)
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
TRANSMISSION SYSTEM FOR SIKKIM'S 1200 MW POWER
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. (POWERGRID) has entered into a Shareholder’s Agreement with Teesta Urja Ltd to form a Joint Venture Company named “Teestavalley Power Transmission Limited”. The Company will develop associated transmission system for evacuation of power from 1200 MW Teesta-III Hydro Electric Project (HEP) being developed in Sikkim by Teesta Urja Ltd. The project, to be built at an estimated cost of Rs. 708 crore, comprises of construction of (i) 400 kV D/C Teesta – Mangan Transmission line (Approx. length 10 kms) and (ii) 400 kV D/C Mangan-Kishanganj Transmission Line (Approx. length 180 kms). The project is scheduled for completion by September, 2011. POWERGRID and Teesta Urja will have 26% and 74% stake respectively in the Joint Venture Company. The agreement was signed by Shri V.M. Kaul, Executive Director (PI & BDD) on behalf of POWERGRID and by Shri Y.N. Apparao, Managing Director on behalf of Teesta Urja Ltd. in the presence of Shri S. K. Chaturvedi, CMD, POWERGRID and other senior officers of POWERGRID, Teesta Urja Ltd. and Teestavalley Power Transmission Ltd. The JV Board will be chaired by CMD, POWERGRID. The project would be built up on Build, Own & Operate (BOO) basis and will also provide transmission capacity upto Kishanganj S/S of POWERGRID to various private HEPs being developed in North Sikkim. The project would be built on 70:30 Debt Equity Ratio. This Project will be an important part of the common transmission system for evacuation of more than 3000 MW generation from large number of upcoming HEPs in Sikkim to supply the power to the beneficiaries of Northern and Western regions.
( pib)
( pib)
LABOUR LAWS IN INDIA
The Union Minister of Labour and Employment Shri Oscar Fernandes has said that the labour laws should be made relief oriented and workers friendly. He has said that interest of unorganized sector should be safeguarded at any cost as 94 per cent of the total workforce is employed in this sector only. Inaugurating the All India Conference of the Chief Labour Commissioners and the Regional Labour Commissioners here today, Shri Fernandes said that the Labour Commissioners should undertake special crash programme to ensure payment of minimum wages and these efforts should lead to tangible relief to workers. He also announced that the Central Government would issue notification for the minimum wages in respect of employment of sweeping, cleaning and watch and ward also very shortly. He expressed the hope that sizeable number of workers engaged in these two employments would have a sigh of relief with this initiative.Asserting on high level of compliance of the labour standards, Shri Fernandes said that it cannot be ensured by launching prosecutions only. Efforts should be made to get the irregularities rectified by educating and persuading the employers. He advised the officers that they should not restrict themselves only to their conventional and traditional role but also play a pro-active role as facilitator, advisor and guide to the employers, unions and workers so that there is a willing and voluntary compliance with the provisions of labour laws by the employers and at the same time the workers are made aware of their duties and responsibilities. The Minister said that in the present scenario of globalisation no economy can function in isolation. A number of changes are taking place which are affecting the industries and the workers alike. This, in fact, is the crucial phase of re-adjustment where our energy, resources and tact will be tested to the maximum. Hence there is need to adapt the changes accordingly and make the labour administration more effective. Appreciating efforts in achieving settlement in some of the recent industrial disputes, Shri Fernandes said that settlement in Neyveli Lignite Corporation which ensured a significant pay hike for over 13,000 contract labour and other benefits, should be taken as a model. The agenda for two days conference include settlement of industrial disputes, enforcement of labour laws, implementation of awards and issues related welfare of the workers. The Conference is being attended by the chief Labour Commissioners and Regional Labour Commissioners of the country.
HYDEL PROJECTS IN SIKKIM
August 06, 2008
Sikkim government to review decision to scrap hydel projects
Project Today reported that Sikkim government has decided to review its decision to scrap 11
hydel projects in a bid to modify the private developers one of whom has moved the Sikkim High Court challenging termination of its project in East district.It is learnt that the state government had been rattled by the private developers' threat to take the matter of termination of the projects to the court for adjudication and so decided to return the scrapped projects to the individual developers for execution.One of the developers Madhya Bharat Power Corporation Ltd, whose project at Rongnichu in East district was among the projects terminated by the state government in July 2008, has filed a petition in the Sikkim High Court challenging the scrapping of the project.
Sikkim government to review decision to scrap hydel projects
Project Today reported that Sikkim government has decided to review its decision to scrap 11
hydel projects in a bid to modify the private developers one of whom has moved the Sikkim High Court challenging termination of its project in East district.It is learnt that the state government had been rattled by the private developers' threat to take the matter of termination of the projects to the court for adjudication and so decided to return the scrapped projects to the individual developers for execution.One of the developers Madhya Bharat Power Corporation Ltd, whose project at Rongnichu in East district was among the projects terminated by the state government in July 2008, has filed a petition in the Sikkim High Court challenging the scrapping of the project.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
SUBSIDISED PALMOLIEN FOR SIKKIM
The Centre has allocated 93,400 tonne edible oil per month to 24 States/UTs for distribution through the public distribution system. Edible oil importing public sector undertakings have been given the responsibility to supply the allocated edible oils to the States as given below:
State Through PSU Type of oil per month allocation
Sikkim MMTC RBD Palmolein 150 MT per Month
Under the Scheme of Distribution of Subsidised Imported Edible Oils to States/UTs started last month. The Scheme was formally launched by Agriculture and Food Minister Shri Sharad Pawar in Hyderabad on 28th July.
At the end of July, these PSUs have contracted 2,59,950 tonnes of edible oils, out of which 1,35,395 tonnes have landed on Indian ports. 39,196 tonnes have been packed in pouches and 37,000 tonnes have been handed over to various States as per their demand.
State Through PSU Type of oil per month allocation
Sikkim MMTC RBD Palmolein 150 MT per Month
Under the Scheme of Distribution of Subsidised Imported Edible Oils to States/UTs started last month. The Scheme was formally launched by Agriculture and Food Minister Shri Sharad Pawar in Hyderabad on 28th July.
At the end of July, these PSUs have contracted 2,59,950 tonnes of edible oils, out of which 1,35,395 tonnes have landed on Indian ports. 39,196 tonnes have been packed in pouches and 37,000 tonnes have been handed over to various States as per their demand.
RADIO MISTI & RADIO NETHERLAND
Entertainment
Netherlands public broadcaster ties up with Radio Misty
Siliguri : Radio Netherlands Worldwide (RNW) has established a partnership with Radio Misti, the first FM station in North Bengal and Sikkim, at a function here on Monday.
Amitabh Srivastava, the RNW country manager for India told a press conference that RNW, having over 3000 global partners, would offer music programmes ranging from European pop charts to classical, Jazz and world music besides.
The RNW, he said, was interested to work in India considering the rapid growth of FM stations and multimedia platforms in the country.
The RNW would provide Radio Misty with programmes involving discussions on a variety of issues. It would also broadcast Radio Misty programmes to the global audience, he said.
Radio Misty 94.3 FM chief executive officer, Nishant Mittal, in his address said that, Radio Misty was proud to be the first RNW partner in India.
The partnership, he hoped, would bring a lot of innovative programmes to the people of North Bengal and Sikkim.
Netherlands public broadcaster ties up with Radio Misty
Siliguri : Radio Netherlands Worldwide (RNW) has established a partnership with Radio Misti, the first FM station in North Bengal and Sikkim, at a function here on Monday.
Amitabh Srivastava, the RNW country manager for India told a press conference that RNW, having over 3000 global partners, would offer music programmes ranging from European pop charts to classical, Jazz and world music besides.
The RNW, he said, was interested to work in India considering the rapid growth of FM stations and multimedia platforms in the country.
The RNW would provide Radio Misty with programmes involving discussions on a variety of issues. It would also broadcast Radio Misty programmes to the global audience, he said.
Radio Misty 94.3 FM chief executive officer, Nishant Mittal, in his address said that, Radio Misty was proud to be the first RNW partner in India.
The partnership, he hoped, would bring a lot of innovative programmes to the people of North Bengal and Sikkim.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
MARKETS OF SIKKIM
EAST
Bazar Class - I
Gangtok, Singtam.
Bazar Class - II
Rangpo, Ranipool, Pakyong, Rhenock, Tadong, Rongli.
Bazar Class - III
Dikchu (E), Makha, Sang, Rorathang.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Phadamchen, Kupup, Sherathang, Chandmari, Rongyek, Burtuk
Bhojoghari, Samdong, Ranka, Central Pendam, Martam, Saramsa.
Simik - Linzey, Tintek, Lingdong, Chandey Kyangasla, Theguk,
Lingtuk, Jaluk, Sisney, Barapathing, Mamring, Machong, Chalisey
(Rhenock), Reshi (E), East Pendam, Kopchey, Dalapchand, Aritar,
Chujachen, Rolep, Parakha, Penlong, Lingdok, Lingtam, Rumtek,
Middle Camp, Lower Samdong, Duga, Tsongu, Sirwani, Syari,
Tathangchen.
NORTH
Bazar Class - II
Mangan, Chungthang, Dikchu (N), Phensong, Phodong.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Pakyong, Kabi, Namok, Ramthang, Singhik, Pakshep, Manuel,
Naga, Sangkalang, Hee-Gyathang, Pashingdang, Phodong, Tumlong,
Phamtam, Bakcha, Lachen, Lachung, Lingzya, Tingbong.
SOUTH
Bazar Class - II
Jorethang, Namchi, Melli, Ravongla.
Bazar Class - III
Simchuthang (Mangley), Majhitar, Temi Bazar, Damthang, Namthang
Kewzing, Yangyang, Ralang.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Nandugoan, Tenzor, Maniram Bhanjyang, Phughajyang, Rateypaney,
Tokal Bermoik, "O" Tarku, Ben Bazar, Sadam, Melli Dara, Payong,
Sukrabarey (Sadam), Sumbuk, Turuk, Kitam, Wok, Lingmoo, Lingi-
Payong, Namphok, Manpur, Gumpa Ghurpisey.
WEST
Bazar Class - II
Gyalshing
Bazar Class - III
Leghsip, Reshi, Hee, Sombaria, Soreng, Daramdin, Dentam,
Rinchenpong, Kaluk, Mangalbarey, Shreebadam, Barmiok,
Pelling, Tashiding, Chakung, Nayabazar.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Darap, Rimbi, Gerethang, Melli-Khechepery, Sakyong, Chongrang,
Lingchom, Tashiding, Cheyabhanjyang, Timburbong, Dodak, Zoom
Ribdi, Okhrey, Bhareng Hilley, Budang, Tharpu, Pureytar, Thingling,
Begha, Rothak, Yuksom, Uttarey.
Bazar Class - I
Gangtok, Singtam.
Bazar Class - II
Rangpo, Ranipool, Pakyong, Rhenock, Tadong, Rongli.
Bazar Class - III
Dikchu (E), Makha, Sang, Rorathang.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Phadamchen, Kupup, Sherathang, Chandmari, Rongyek, Burtuk
Bhojoghari, Samdong, Ranka, Central Pendam, Martam, Saramsa.
Simik - Linzey, Tintek, Lingdong, Chandey Kyangasla, Theguk,
Lingtuk, Jaluk, Sisney, Barapathing, Mamring, Machong, Chalisey
(Rhenock), Reshi (E), East Pendam, Kopchey, Dalapchand, Aritar,
Chujachen, Rolep, Parakha, Penlong, Lingdok, Lingtam, Rumtek,
Middle Camp, Lower Samdong, Duga, Tsongu, Sirwani, Syari,
Tathangchen.
NORTH
Bazar Class - II
Mangan, Chungthang, Dikchu (N), Phensong, Phodong.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Pakyong, Kabi, Namok, Ramthang, Singhik, Pakshep, Manuel,
Naga, Sangkalang, Hee-Gyathang, Pashingdang, Phodong, Tumlong,
Phamtam, Bakcha, Lachen, Lachung, Lingzya, Tingbong.
SOUTH
Bazar Class - II
Jorethang, Namchi, Melli, Ravongla.
Bazar Class - III
Simchuthang (Mangley), Majhitar, Temi Bazar, Damthang, Namthang
Kewzing, Yangyang, Ralang.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Nandugoan, Tenzor, Maniram Bhanjyang, Phughajyang, Rateypaney,
Tokal Bermoik, "O" Tarku, Ben Bazar, Sadam, Melli Dara, Payong,
Sukrabarey (Sadam), Sumbuk, Turuk, Kitam, Wok, Lingmoo, Lingi-
Payong, Namphok, Manpur, Gumpa Ghurpisey.
WEST
Bazar Class - II
Gyalshing
Bazar Class - III
Leghsip, Reshi, Hee, Sombaria, Soreng, Daramdin, Dentam,
Rinchenpong, Kaluk, Mangalbarey, Shreebadam, Barmiok,
Pelling, Tashiding, Chakung, Nayabazar.
Rural Marketing Centres:
Darap, Rimbi, Gerethang, Melli-Khechepery, Sakyong, Chongrang,
Lingchom, Tashiding, Cheyabhanjyang, Timburbong, Dodak, Zoom
Ribdi, Okhrey, Bhareng Hilley, Budang, Tharpu, Pureytar, Thingling,
Begha, Rothak, Yuksom, Uttarey.
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