doublethink

Change in Address... Click to Proceed

2009-05-07T03:13:00.005+05:30

Kind notice for all readers...current economic meltdown along with early migration of Siberian cranes have lead to shifting of this blog to this -> http://jatiesch.wordpress.com/

Nothing different....just for change ;)
Plz continue reading & commenting :)

Earth Day or just another Gimmick

2008-04-24T03:03:00.007+05:30

World celebrated Earth Day with gusto as students, common people and governments showed lots of enthusiasm for the day. However does such events and celebrations serve their purpose or are just a way to overlook grave danger and desist responsibility...

Global concentration of carbon dioxide is now nearly 385 parts per million. Preindustrial carbon dioxide levels hovered around 280 ppm until 1850. Human activities pushed those levels up to 380 ppm by early 2006. Though no one can accurately predict the tipping point at which global catastrophe will occur, since 2000, annual increases of two parts per million or more have been common, compared with 1.5 ppm per year in the 1980s and less than one ppm per year during the 1960s, according to NOAA's Earth System Research Laboratory.

Common perception about containing global warming and reducing GHG emission ranges from the use of bio-fuels, controlling industrial emissions using economic methods like carbon tax, emission trading, shifting to cleaner sources of energy and most important of all self restraint. People all over the world highlighted the cause by following an international blackout last month for an hour along with lots of interactive and educative sessions in schools, colleges and public places on Earth Day. However does these things really help in any appreciable manner in the fight against global menace???

Answer is big NO. The problem of global warming is too big to be checked by such glitzy events and blackouts. Infact these lead people into misplaced sense of contributing towards the cause and diverts the attention from more important problems and alternatives. While the supporters of such events claim that they educate the masses about the ill effects of global warming, what is the benefit of such events if the same people relapse into high energy consuming life style the next day?? In fact the wasteful amount of energy, money and time spent on these events could be diverted into more useful channels.

Many important changes must be brought into the common thinking about present day environmental problems. First of all inspite of all these doomsday projections about global warming, why it is that the research papers giving counterviews are not highlighted. There is no benefit of exaggerating the impact of emissions and first a transparent and accurate estimate of the problem must be made. Only then and not by frightening, we will be able to convince the masses about the problem at hand.

Also steps must be taken to introduce personalized carbon trading by every government .Individuals who exceed their allocation (i.e. those who need more emissions credits than they have been given) would be able to purchase additional credits from the open market, and individuals that are under allocation can sell. Proponents of personal carbon trading claim that it could increase ‘carbon literacy’, thereby allowing individuals to make a fair contribution to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It could allow the burden of reducing emissions to be shared evenly throughout the economy, rather than focusing all the attention on business and governments and having more impact than Earth Day like festivals. Only such steps will make masses more restraint in energy consumption.

On commercial and industrial front carbon markets must be made more transparent and misuse of carbon credits like mentioned in an article by Charles Forelle(WSJ) must be checked. In no way the process should appear like the transfer of responsibility from developed nations to developing world. Efforts must also be made in checking emissions from bottoms-up industrial level by improving efficiencies of industrial technologies and shifting to greener energy sources.

Only such sustained efforts on the part of governments, industrial houses and common people will help us to check the menace of global warming in a timely manner or not many Earth Days will be left to celebrate for our future generations...

Bringing the wall down...

2008-03-27T00:15:00.007+05:30

Recently the news of Tibet unrest overshadowed media as China went on crushing the Tibet rioters with a usual IRON FIST. World saw China unleashing close down on Tibet with every source of news out of China being shut. Great hue & cry was raised about the incident and China was criticized about its policy. But the story biased from perspective of the victim is always feared exaggerated. So what world saw or read was the general perception of how Chinese system control and functioning from the messages spread by loyal Dalai Lamas supporters worldwide. People viewed current Chinese crackdown as effort to salvage her reputation before Beijing Olympics and to prevent further demonstrations during the event.

However curtaining the freedom of press & using military crackdown on peaceful dissenters also raises questions about Chinese credibility and commitment towards ensuring peace in the region. First of all trying to dilute the identity of native people by inducing demographical changes and controlling daily affairs of monks and temples was the cause of outburst. People are always protective of their identity and any attempt to negate it always raises outcry. Maybe China can take a cue from India in these matters. India is the prime example of Unity in Diversity comprising of vastly different communities within its geographical boundary. India has always promoted and encouraged local culture and traditions giving reasonable powers to local bodies while at the same time placing a proper central control so as to prevent any dissenting tendencies. Sure there has been disturbances but in comparison to number of ethnic communities the experiment would be termed a success.

Also control of means of flow of information beyond certain extent lead to unrest as people then tend to take drastic steps in order to get attention from world community. Chinese authorities must realize this sooner or they must be prepared to face a rebellion at much bigger scale than this. Freedom of expression helps in peaceful venting of grievances and people find a proper platform to raise voice. Its not that US, EU or India does not faces any lesser problems but no such revolts happen there just because of freedom of expression thereby preventing a much sinister version of public unrest, reason for the fall of erstwhile Soviet Union.

However in my opinion Tibetan protesters must also realize that world has changed a lot from 1950 to 2008. Changes in IT and technology has given entirely new vision to lives and people are no longer restricted within their local environs. They must realize how difficult it would be for them to exist without the kind of help China can provide them in IT and infrastructure. They cannot remain isolated as a holy kingdom and let native Tibetans be deprived of modern advances. Nor would China let go a region full of natural reserves and a prime position in geopolitical scenario in central Asia.

Also countries like US should stop taking sides and use the situation to gain political mileage. Irresponsible statements and state visits like that of Nancy Pelosi will only increase mistrust at international stage. India faces a policy dilemma under current situation. India has rightfully granted refuge to Tibetans on its territory but that should not mean that any protests from its soil must be allowed. Its time to realize that for Indians the future lies together with Chinese and not against them. When India does not like anti-India propaganda propagated in POK how can we let the same happen against China.

So probably a middle path must be carved out between Chinese authorities and pro Dalai Lama Tibetans giving former the control over foreign policies while at the same time giving Tibetans sufficient room for governance through their own laws and customs. Most importantly one should not politicize Beijing Olympics. Olympics give nations platform to prove their mettle on field and every effort must be made to let it remain so. We does not want our future generations to look at 2008 Olympics the way we see earlier Munich and Moscow versions.

Another attempt to conquer the World

2008-02-09T00:55:00.000+05:30

First one started in 17th century and resulted in a empire spread across entire planet and lasting for mammoth 300 years. Now another attempt is made to repeat that but in a peaceful manner. If Industrial revolution and gunpowder where the potent weapons then, this time around it is a small ball - an air-filled sphere with a circumference of 68–70 cm (or 27–28 inches), a weight 410–450 g (or 14–16 ounces), inflated to a pressure of 8–12 psi, and covered in leather or other suitable material. Yes football.

If recent proposals of English Premier League are to go by then each team in Barclay's Premier League will play one match abroad in the month of January starting 2010-11 season. This match will be a proper competitive match with its points contributing to the title race. Idea is taken from similar moves by NBA last year and promises globalization of already popular EPL. The Premier League is the most lucrative football league in the world, with total club revenues of over £1.4 billion in 2005–06 season according to Deloitte, 40% above its nearest competitor: Italy's Serie A. Revenues will increase to approximately £1.8 billion in the 2007–08 season, when new media rights deals start. Also EPL compares favorably with NBA, NFL & NHL in revenues and viewership. Then what is the main reason for this proposal??

MONEY MONEY MONEY MONEY

Making teams play abroad is just a gimmick to swell the coffers of rich league as well as cash hungry owners of these clubs like Abramovichs and Glazers. But what problems this move could create must be pondered upon by EPL Board:

-> Making already grueling season more hectic. So it does not comes as a surprize that most of the managers are crying foul.

-> This will furthur increase the divide between top four and rest of the group. Honestly who would prefer watching Wigan vs Derbyshire in face of ManU vs Arsenal. So all to gain will be big clubs.

-> This will reduce the importance of local derbies. Liverpool vs Everton & Arsenal vs. Spurs make sense only in their hometowns not in far away Bangkok.

-> Who and how will these fixtures will be decided.

-> May alienate many faithful English fans. Also how many ardent supporters will be able to cheer their teams faraway.

These and many other questions must be answered by Board and only after discussions with managers must this proposal be put to practice. Meanwhile I am relishing Arsenal vs ManU in New Delhi... ;-)

New Force of India

2008-01-04T00:49:00.000+05:30

India's clout in World of Motor Sports is surely increasing at a fast pace. After years of wait Indian flag is surely to make its mark in next chapter of F1 Championships this year around. India was on F1 maps due to heroics of Narayan Karthikeyan and Karun Chandok, however it was lacking support and fanbase. Then came "Man of Happier Times" - liquor barron and aviator - Vijay Mallya who has truly changed F1 scenario of the country. His buying of Spyker F1 team in october alongside Michiel Mol. Now more and more people are turning towards this high adrenaline sport so far restricted among rich nd devoted motor sport fans. How successful this venture will be will be seen in months to come. This development followed announcement of Indian Grand Prix by year 2010 near Noida which will certainly boost F1 viewership in India. Today Giancarlo Fisichella's name was finalised for the second seat primarily because of the experience he brings to the team. The Renault driver will be partnering Adrian Sutil, who drove for Force India's earlier avatar - Spyker. He also drove for the team during winter practice sessions. Emergence of an Indian Team can also mean opportunity for Indian pair Karthekayen and Chandok in years to come.

However holding F1 in India is a mammoth task.

- F1 involves big sums of money and for setting up F1 infrastructure in India lots of investment will be required both from Private and Public sector. Barring TATA and Kingfischer only few are involved in sponsering Motor Sports and apprehension of other players must be removed soon.

-India lacks infrastructure at present and infact no airport in India can fulfill the F1 requirements. Each team travels in several jumbo jets and in total airports are required to handle nearly 40-45 jumbos at same time. However organizers are claiming that renewated Delhi airport will be able to overcome this problem. But it is a well known fact that Indian contractors delay projects by 2-3 years.

- Also a big problem in India is that Sports are synonymous with Cricket. This mentallity of Indian viewer must be quickly changed. Indian owned F1 team will surely help the cause. Mallya can furthur popularize the sport in country by giving opportunities to Indian drivers once the team is settled.

- Problem is furthur aggrevated by lack of Five & Seven star Hotels around NCR.

- Internal fued and lack of co-ordiantion among various ministries must also be held to bring this plan to light. Some people also accused Surash Kalmadi of taking credit for procuring F1 deal. Both the Motorsports Association of India and the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India have expressed some scepticism. The latter's president, Rajat Mazumbar, has said that "The only authorised body that can run motorsports in the country is ours" despite the fact the deal has been signed with the Indian Olympic Association.

However inspite of these complications involving India in F1 is a welcome step for FIA. India has a very large fanbase alongside Business potential which if properly tapped can take revenue and popularity to new hights. Selection of site in NCR is also a welcome step as New Delhi is one of the most well connected cities of India. Also 2010 Commenwealth Games will provide with great infrastructural support to F1 race in the region.

A lot will depend on how next season unfolds and success of the team. Selection of experienced driver like Fisichella will boost the morale of Team ForceIndia. Till then just wait for Australian Grand Prix on March 14th.

2007 in retrospect

2007-12-30T23:02:00.000+05:30

As the year 2007 rolls before our eyes, this must be the best time to introspect about what was promised, what we gained and what was lost this year. The year 2007 was a mixed bag with new techies for nerds,lot of political and warmongering, debacles and resurgence in sports.Nature was a bit friendly this time around (still a day to go). As you sit in comfort in front of your screens sipping coffee and
enjoying New Year lets have 2007 in retrospect. This is not any best or worst list but is just the remainder of why will remember this year (or probably try to forget it).

Year when Apple became Microsoft (OS Wars):

This year saw the launch of much anticipated Apple iPhone with the aim of changing the way people use there phones and communicate. Replacing off all cumbersome
buttons with a beautiful touchscreen and providing all host of other features made this a most successful product of the year and this was confirmed as Apple sold approx. 5 million iPhones by year end. Apple also introduced latest of its series of macs with launch of feature rich Leopard. On the other hand Microsoft carried on with its scrappy and buggy Vista OS and released its sp1. On Linux front newer versions of OS were launched and conversion rate from Windows and Macs substantially increased. However the thing this year will be remembered for will be that Apple started adopting policies which made it assume the role of Microsoft. From DRM controversy to
ringtones on iPhone to 3^rd Party Apps and similar other anti-customer policies made lots of Addle devouts think again who were supported by iWoz. With growing sales of its iPod, iPhone and Macs there is also a growing resentment against Apple and Steve Jobs must do a serious thinking here.

Bush fire..Iraq..Iran and counting:
After “Mission Accomplished” in Iraq, Bush this time around tried to turn Americans towards Iran. However due to American elections next year, lack of World support and findings of last NIE his support is all time low. Bush's position further weakened on
international front due to his stand on issues like Iran sanctions,emissions and also due to exit of his right hand man Tony Blair. He is at present not only troubled by internal problems like elections, medicare etc but problems in Pakistan, Middle East and growing clout of Russia also are a major cause of concern.

Europe loses its E:
Probably this was the biggest Sports news of the year as Mighty England were ousted from the Euro2008 Cup to be held in Austria-Switzerland next year. With a loss to Russia in Moscow and
poor performance in qualifying this was imminent. Even with all the big players like Lampard, Gerrard, Cole & Beckham this was quite embarrassing besides costing a fortune to FA. FA in the end made a face-saving attempt by replacing Steve McLaren with Fabio Capello. English football is rotten to roots as we see in every major
competitions and until work on building a sound base, team spirit and controlling player egos is done it will be difficult seeing England qualifying even for next World cup.

Even 123 gets difficult:
Probably this was the most embarrassing event for India. As India was about to enter Official league of Nuclear states, on the verge of getting perennial fuel supply, technology and
investment, the party was spoiled be CPI who claim to be the only true communist party in the World. They are neither communists, are a bunch of zealots instead of a party and are neither Indian taking orders from China. Not only have they stagnated West Bengal, they also prevent ruling INC from introducing any sound measures. And as
Nandigram boiled what they did was not less than Gujarat Carnage. There opposition to government policies, interrupting functioning and making Taslima Nasreen leave WB towards the year end always kept them in News but all for wrong reasons.

Global warming heats up the Big League:
This was the year when Environment and Global finally became important issues on International Stage. With a Nobel being given for this cause & various doomsday projections people have began to realize the severity of the problem. International Conferences & Bali Meet also highlighted the importance of the issue. This year also saw the efforts to reduce the cost of generation of solar electricity and first such commercial panels were also introduced. There success depends on availability, public motivation and government policies.But this has become clear that global warming is the most important problem facing mankind. Though many issues remain unattended like
responsibility of developed nations, adherence to emission standards etc.

T20 bang on:
Probably the only big and good news for India this year was T20 World Cup win in South Africa. Though started 3-4 years back as an experiment in county cricket, people had its first experience and they loved it. This World Cup in stark difference to earlier held World Cup was a big success. Not only matches were less time consuming making it highly audience friendly but the overall length of tournament was also decreased from original edition. Definitely T20 is here to stay and seriously questions the relevance of 50 over cricket.

Some more additions can also be made like
+ Ferrari-McLaren Dispute
+ Bhutto Assassination
+ Year of Rehabs
+ Resurgence under Wenger
+ 2 girls 1 cup :P

If you feel something more should also be added then surely fire me a mail
at jatiesch@gmail.com or leave a comment. Wishing you and your family Seasons greetings and a Happy New Year.

Bhutto Assassinated - Ramifications

2007-12-28T03:47:00.000+05:30

RAWALPINDI, Pakistan (CNN) -- Pakistan's former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated Thursday after addressing a large gathering of her supporters. Bhutto died of a gunshot wound to the neck, the Pakistani Interior Ministry said. The attacker then blew himself up. The bomb attack killed at least 22 others, doctors said.
(Courtesy CNN)

Not unexpected. Yet unthinkable and horrible.This must be in the minds of most of the people as they come to terms with assassination of Benazir Bhutto. Bhutto was in present times a hope for Pakistan's future and had a massive following with masses.

Ever since Bhutto returned Pakistan was inflamed with Political activity. Her touchdown welcome attack with killed hundreds in October was just a remainder of things to come. Surely being a front runner for elusive PM seat she had many opponents ready to kill her to advance their political ambitions.A widow of former Prime Minister and being a woman in Islamic Republic further could have worked against her. Though myself not a big fan of Bhutto, I surely feel she was the need of the hour for mending Pakistani political turmoil. She had a large base, could bring people to table to solve issues and was probably most able face for Musharraf's scheme of things. But if Musharraf is not directly involved, it is still his fault of not maintaining law and order with whole truckloads of army and personnel. Now this tragedy will be introspected over the coming days and hopefully murderers will be caught. But its ramifications on various people and groups can be guessed:

On Pakistan: Surely will suffer the most. Losing their leader in a country seriously void of able leaders will give them a big jolt towards achieving free democracy. But this will surely fuel more violence and unrest in Pakistan in days to come.

On Musharraf: On top of the list of usual suspects at this juncture to point fingers at is Musharraf. Sadly he also knows this and also probably the attackers (considering they weren't in same league with Musharraf). Bhutto was an important part of Musharraf's future strategy and her loss along with violence accompanied with hit will be a big setback for him. Must assuage Bhutto supporters now and mend ways with Nawaz Sharif.

On Nawaz Sharif: will surely gain from this as his way is now almost clear for being next Prime Minister. However anti-government, pro-Taliban and pro-Bhutto supporters will be ready to pounce on him now. Must now lead the way is bringing all factions to table with the help of Musharraf and bring some order in already torn house.

On India: Sadly we can only wait and watch. As before, its still the case of choosing bad from worst. No leader in Pakistan has any genuine aspirations to maintain healthy cross border relations beyond regular PR exercises. But in my point of view Pakistan in turmoil is much worst than under the control of corrupt but stable government which can keep Talibani fractions under control.

On America and World: America has reiterated time to time of importance of Pakistan in so called "War on Terror". But with Pakistan in trouble they have a much bigger problem than Iran. In Iran there is a doubt of Nuclear weapons. But here is a full blown chance of the same passing into the hands of terror groups as government control weakens. Hence they must act quickly to somehow restore peace in Pakistan.

Though it is very early to comment on the outcome and ramifications of these attacks, we can only hope that peace is quickly restored and democracy prevails on our neighboring doors. Mrs Benazir Bhutto RIP.

Another Soviet in Making???

2007-11-29T00:00:00.000+05:30

With declaration of date for Presidential elections on 2nd December media and blogosphere is full of news related to who will lead the largest country in world. Opinions are multifarious ranging from suppression of free speech to voice of liberal electorate and hailing Putin as most successful leader post Soviet breakdown. Well you can easily predict the media speculation depending on your media source. While US and western commentators have severely criticized the way elections are handled in Russia, reports coming from 'Mother Russia' are mostly favorable possibly due to state control of media. But the real perspective is confusing to people outside. Whatever be Putin's approval rating, whatever be the Russian economic progress the signs given by Russia surely decreases its credibility on International front instead of improving.

More and more Anti-Kremlin activists are attacked and arrested in Russia. Russian police broke up an opposition rally and detained about 150 people in St Petersburg, including opposition leader Boris Nemtsov. This happens after former chess champion Garry Kasparov, was arrested at a rally in Moscow on Saturday. Both protests were organised by opposition group The Other Russia. It accuses the government of crushing dissent ahead of elections. TOR has been accusing the government of crushing dissent ahead of elections.Since the last election there has also been a series of significant changes to electoral laws which opposition parties say aims to push them out of the political system. Major points are increasing the minimum percentage of votes required for a party to enter parliament, increasing the minimum number of members a party must have in order to be officially registered by the authorities and banning independent candidates from running for parliament. In face of these and no scope for independent financing, no access to independent media and no access to independent justice there's no possibility to become an opposition.

However pro-Putin supporters ( United Russia) are also not devoid of logic. They see Putin as provider of regional stability and a force against Unipolar World. Supporters of the Kremlin dismiss all allegations of opposition parties as the complaints of losers. Russia was falling apart when Mr Putin came to power. The country needed a strong leader, and it's to Mr Putin's credit that Russia survives as a geographic entity. He has also achieved another important victory. Russians are now proud to be living in their country, which few people could say in the 1990s. GDP growth has been exponential backing on oil and gas prices. These have helped Putin to leverage Russia's position on erstwhile soviet countries and World scene.

However even Kremlin supporters cannot negate the growing menace of corruption in Russian society and there increasing isolation in World community. The only achievement of Vladimir Putin is that some of the money brought to the county by high oil prices hasn't been stolen. There is some investment and it seems to be paying off. Business tycoons who defy Moscow are sent on Siberian Holiday and there is always a threat of nationalization.

Now Putin is bringing one Viktor Zubkov from obscurity to become Russian President and he being in control of strings from behind. Planning is probably done that Zubkov will resign in some time paving way for Putin to again become President. What will transpire, we will come to know in a month or so. Till then "Hail Mother Russia"

C2D in Working…

2007-11-24T17:02:00.000+05:30

‘Centre would deal with Naxalism in a “holistic” manner.’ – Shivraj Patil (HM)

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee - “They were paid back with their own coin” while training his guns at Trinamool Congress workers.

Look within the two lines, its clear as a crystal. Bagging front lines in all National Dailies nowadays is the News of recent spate of violence in Nandigram and adjoin areas. These happenings in CPM’s own citadel reflects the results of there idealistic approach towards present world scenario. They remain cocooned in the Ideals of Bolsheviks when everyone including there forefathers (read Russia) and fathers (China) are giving up communism and fostering capitalism. But the picture is much murkier here. Not that CPM solely is responsible for killing, as it appears that Trinamool Congress supporters were also involved in the incident. But the scale of violence and the duration for which it has extended surprises us all. Why could so powerful CPM could not quell violence it its own adobe?? Further why was center so silent about the happenings?? It could have easily sent Army to Nandigram where it could have easily brought the onslaught under control. But No, Centre did not respond and the goons & mafia hired by political forces virtually rampaged entire area. Nandigram was almost cut from the country and no news, death toll or pictures were made available so as to give free hand to CPMs goons in the area.

Prakash Karat justified cadre action and blamed the Maoists and Trinamul for the violence while the Bengal CM argued that his government didn’t do anything in wrong politically cleansing Nandigram. What a shame! CPM cadres celebrating there victory over a small village is truly shocking. But much more unnerving was the quietness of centre and the U-Turn by CPM on its stance on Nuclear Deal. While CPM earlier was vehemently opposed to even discuss the deal now its supportive of the Central governments stance. This all gives us a view of bigger machinations running undercover where nor the violence nor the killing of innocent have any significance when political power comes into question. Cooperate to Dominate is the mantra of our truly headless chicken politicians and we paltry citizens can only watch.

Undemocratic Democracy

2007-10-24T01:18:00.000+05:30

"This is not just a journey for me, but the beginning of a journey for the people of Pakistan for a better future" - Benazir Bhutto, former prime minister, on returning to Pakistan on September 18th after an eight-year self-imposed exile.

But what followed was a bloody massacre killing over 150. Over the last few weeks media, newspapers and blogosphere are filled with news of homecoming of erstwhile Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. There has been a mixed response to this home coming of PPL leader. Most are happy as they believe that this will see an end to long dictatorial regime of Gen Mussharaf as Bhutto comes waving the flag of democracy. But these trails for democracy have been too common and Army Generals have wiped them off easily as seen with Nawaz Sharif, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto etc. Main point to stress here is that army is way to powerful in Pakistan and is actively involved in day to day working of Pakistani State machinery. So its interference cannot be easily derided and so each and every so called democratic government is in fact only an enterprise serving Army rather than Nation.

Many do not recognize BB as a deserving candidate for leading the country. The reason was the way in which she left the country. Bhutto comes as a failed former prime minister, accused of grand-scale thieving who ran away to save her conviction (in fact she is granted amnesty by Mush). Ulterior motive is the face saving act by Mush to salvage something for his next stint as President. BB is just a vassal in this scheme of things and will just provide a face to connect with people and give right messages to international community. Rest will remain the same as before if one
go according to the deal between the two.

However strength of Musharraf itself is doubted by pundits as he is surrounded on all sides which are ready to pounce for his head. On one side are Al Quida people who are upset with Mush's American fling, then there is political opposition from other parties, there is Army who are not getting to many incentives (and wars), troubled regions of Balochistan and world pressure. So how effective and lasting this deal will be is questionable.

Another point is what should we Indians think about this development. Return of democracy can be a welcome thought for Indians but that of Bhutto is surely not. She was the first one to fuel terrorists in the region by arms, aids and money against India. Her provoking rhetoric against Kashmiri pandits cannot be easily forgotten. Many feel that she is herself responsible for Karachi bombings and this may again be a scheme to gather public sympathy and support.

Whatever happens will be eagerly watched but its foolish to think that India may gain anything from this. Pakistan is going towards destruction. It is already an International terror hub, biggest arms market and these things should be addressed by India on its own front. Mr. Mush will surely be either going to seek political asylum outside Pakistan or going to be hanged or killed( ok this is a bit extreme but Musharraf also knows this). But that will spell further disaster for Indians...

It all comes down to Nukes and Sensex

2007-10-16T02:04:00.000+05:30

This has been a pretty long hiatus for me which was because of my system being down, me going home etc... So this post is not about any specific issue but gives a glimpse of happenings around the same time. Most important of all...Arsenal are still at top on league table despite ManU closing in. But young guns are showing real class and they do not seem faltering in near future...Stupid India-Aus cricket series continues which I just cant understand why is taking place without giving any rest to players after T20 WC....and the results are quite obvious with India down 1-4.

On political front major news was Congress mending ways with Left against the nuke deal giving up its 6 months long stand on the issue. As far as I am concerned this is one of the most backwards step taken by Indian Gov in recent years and will cause problems both nationally and internationally. On International front this will definetely lower India's position on globle platform and nations wll be vary of formulating any proposals with India. Nuke deal was more important for India than opposite way and Americans will sure be frustrated and vary of Indians. On national front also this mending ways with left will furthur give air to those out of age self made idealists and they will step up protests also on other issues opposed to them. This will further weaken the government as left realizes that Congress will easily breakup on applying pressure. So only people happy are Leftists and those sitting in Beijing and Islamabad...

Sensex as usual is breaking records after records and continues to surge ahead on account of heavy foreign inflows..however market is very risky and far from stable. Lets see how far this Bull run continues....

V(W)enger Vindicated

2007-09-21T19:25:00.001+05:30

' It is still very early in the season, but when you see your players all dancing around the pitch and showing so much spirit, it fills you with hope' - Professor Wenger

First it was Spuds...now its Sevilla, the story is same. Team derided by all at season's start, even said to be relegated is now the eye of European football with soccer pundits coming out with new predictions about Arsenal's season. We're being treated to football with a smile, a deep-seated commitment to pure attacking at a pace most teams can only dream about. So long as Arsene Wenger is manager of Arsenal, and that should be for a considerable period of time after his signing the new 3 year deal, his team will only play beautiful football and even though their determination to impress their adoring public occasionally costs them, they will not be changing for anyone.

Arsene Wenger could content himself with another night of triumph in what is already becoming a season of vindication for the Arsenal boss. His move to off-load Thierry Henry and put all his faith in the youngsters he has been promoting for many a year was more than a little bold during the summer, but it looks set to pay off in the grand manner. The boring functional football displayed by sides such as AC Milan, Chelsea and FC Porto has brought success in Europe's premier competition in the last few years but now it appears that Arsenal's angelic football not only impresses one and all but also has started giving result with young guns maturing to their fullest this season.

What's more pleasing to see is people also learing the difference between the two schools of football thought.On first Champions league night. Emirates Stadium was packed out for the game just a day after Stamford Bridge was left half-full for the Blues first Champions League game of the campaign, Wenger also commented later on...

'The support at this club amazes me and maybe we will need to add some seats onto this stadium sometime,' he added. 'Maybe the football we play attracts more people than other clubs.' - Wenger

While it's still early in the current campaign, it is easy to question - can any side in European football match Arsenal for aptitude and entertainment at the moment? Arsenal's Premier League win over Tottenham & Champions League meeting with a very capable Sevilla was mesmerizing

Perhaps, it's too early to make judgements. After all, the resources of Wenger's squad have yet to be properly tested. But every season we're introduced to a new name or two and new names like Bacary Sagna, Emmanuel Eboue, Kolo Toure and the brilliantly gifted Cesc Fabregas have shone brilliantly this summer and future appears bright for young guns...

Another Apple blockbuster...

2007-09-13T22:07:00.000+05:30

As Apple released its new generation of iPod's comprising of 6th generation Video iPod's, Nano, and iPhone inspired Touch Internet world is all buzz with there various features. However being a n iPod 5th generation user i was left with some questions...The redesigned split-screen user interface of the third-generation iPod nano, also available on the sixth-generation iPod classic enhances the visual and listening experience. Also attractive is the coverflow design. But can't Apple release a software update so that these things also work on earlier generations of iPod Video and Nano???
One may point that Apple may be attempting to boost its sales by making users shift from 5th generation to 6th and thats why it will not do so...but for me the company of the league of Apple will not do so. So i just want to know that is there a hardware shift from earlier generation of iPod's which prevents earlier ones from having a software update enabling such improvements.....I think this can provide some solace to 5th generation owners who yet can't afford to have another iPod...

Kerry Packer revisited...

2007-09-10T21:47:00.000+05:30

With the advent of T20 on world stage and ICL aka Indian Cricket League promoted by Subhash Chandra's Essel Group both international as well as domestic cricket are undergoing rapid transformation.
In mid 1970s people looked towards 50-50 format with contempt but eventually it became harbinger of the world cricket and test took the back stage. This was obvious as 50-50 format was accordant with the fast moving generation. Now since the world is much more different place than 70s change in cricketing format is much needed. People don't have time for a single day forget about 5 day affair. So it is ostensible that in present scenario T20 is the right step for the cricketing world. Whatever the experts may say about the format, I am totally in favor of it. Look at any sport...soccer, football, baseball and you will find that all these are high intensity games with not only huge fan base but also short time duration.People just can't afford to sit all day waiting for the result which they can easily get within couple of hours with other sports. This is the fundamental flaw with cricket in this fast moving world scenario and I feel that ICC is pragmatic in its approach of promoting the same at international level. Lots of critics have said about the end of bowlers and especially spinners in this form of cricket but the latest trends suggest just the opposite.

I not only feel that T20n world cup will be more successful than ICC Cricket world cup at West Indies, in years to come it will surpass 50-50 cricket in fan base. Any cricket board which does not pays heed to these considerations will eventually suffer at the hands of both fans as well as commercial enterprises to whom T20 is much more profitable venture. So brace up for the T20 world cup as it will not only be more important for future of world cricket it also appears to be much more interesting and well contested as compared to trite and boring World cup 2007.

So far so good...

2007-09-03T00:54:00.000+05:30

I am ecstatic... last two days for our Arsenal has been terrific. Firstly, Wenger in his well known no-fuss style pinched Diarra from Chelshits...whom Mourinho claimed to be the center of his future strategy. Welcome Diarra in AFC and I hope you will be able to do justice to your skills wasted in Chelsea...
But most important is todays win over Pompeys.Adebayor converted the spot kick to send Arsenal into a lead they never relinquished as Arsene Wenger's side cantered to their third Premier League win of the season.Cesc Fabregas and Tomas Rosicky completed the rout with second-half strikes and the only cloud over an scintillating display was the 50th minute dismissal of Philippe Senderos.

Wenger's claims he does not need outside investment to make Arsenal competitive were given credibility this afternoon.Gunners dominated the entire match from the start and visitors were barely able to dent Arsenal's defense. Goals are coming this season and we are getting positive results. One can clearly feel the "winds of change"

Overall very good game from Arsenal and I feel this has been a perfect start to the new season, we should go on and control this season and take ourselves to glory yet again.

PS: More bliss follows as Chelsea lost at Villa Park...:D

Left or Right....

2007-08-23T03:21:00.000+05:30

For the first time in the tenure of current UPA government, it is surrounded by almost all of the parties including allies Left and opposition BJP. Though myself a big critic of UPA policies this deal was only one thing which UPA has advanced as a significant achievement and now all others are crying foul.One has to understand the growing energy demands of India today and till alternate sources are developed which does not seems viable to produce in large amounts currently, nuclear energy is the only option left to meet the burgeoning energy demand. Passage of this bill will not only ensure supply of uranium fuel, it will also bring huge interests from ready to invest American players. Moreover India will be added as a certified member of the nuclear club and this will improve its credibility in World and UN. Ok, there may be some reservations regarding testing etc but they can be resolved and also India can test if need warrants without a big loss as compared to problems it is facing in running its reactors.

Opposition to deal comes from both international and national parts. China is opposing the deal because it will bring India at par with it without event signing NPT. It will make India technologically advanced and energy sufficient something which China can hardly swallow.But since UK, France, Germany, Japan etc are backing the deal it will be hard for China to oppose at international level.

But the most discerning part is that China has found an unlikely ally in form of Communist Party of India. I have no qualms about declaring them "Anti Indian and Pro China". What they are trying to do will take India decades. They have always places their communist counterparts in International arena above Indian interests. They always see China as their mentor. China has made deals with US after Indo-Sino wars of '62 and US has helped them transform into factory of the World, and now when their leader asks to stay away from US then it seems like "Devil saying Scriptures". They have to realize that old Comintern days are over in this age when even China is fostering economic liberalisation.

On the other hand even more comical situation is of BJP. Devoid of any issues at the moment it is using this as an issue against ruling alliance but forgetting that they were the ones who started the whole process when in power. Now they don't want Congress to take credit and so are crying foul.

Both of these parties should realise that Current India is an emerging middle class society full of energy and they are able to comprehend what these politicians are preaching. Also, I think that at present their is no threat to UPA government at present as if elections takes place now, Congress will the party most benefiting from it. Left is already reeling from criticism in West Bengal and Kerela while BJP is still not able to come to terms with UP debacle along with Gujrat and Karnataka troubles.

But we citizens of country can only pray that the deal is resolved and these politicians stop acting like headless chickens, so that India can usher forward in current international scenario.

Another revolution in air??

2007-07-27T02:07:00.000+05:30

Guns were roaring in the sky...people were running in the streets..whole place was in conundrums...You will think of such a description like that usually reported after a car bomb etc in Baghdad. But this was different because people on streets were smilimg not sad, laughing and not fearful, as they were celebrating victory of there National Team in Asian Cup semi finals against Korea. What an inspirational story this has been for Iraqis..living in a war torn country with no resources required for competing at international level and then excelling in Asian Cup, defeating football majors like Australia and Korea.

Faces of Iraqi players were filled with tears...as their heroic goalkeeper later said in post match interview..that while people of their country fight on streets they symbolize their fight on field. This is there tribute to the valiant people of Iraq. Now they will be playing in finals against four time champions Saudi Arabia and it is great that two sides will fight not with bullets but with football in a field. It has been said that sports helps in bringing people together and abridging nations..lets hope same happens with largely divided Iraq of today and this football revolution spread a message of teamwork and unity in the area.

However this occasion should also sound as a final bell for us Indians that we should quickly improve upon our less favored sports. If countries like Iraq with limited resources can do this can India not even equal them with such a vast resources. What is needed is determination on part of people who run sport bodies in India and little more finances to be diverted from cricket.

iPod or iPhone

2007-07-18T16:37:00.000+05:30

With the advent of iPhone in the market big question arises. Will iPhone be a great success as iPod??
Many people are trying to use the success of the feature lacking iPod as some sort of indication of the future success of the major feature lacking iPhone. There is one huge difference: the cell market is full of competent marketers, the MP3 player market was not. iPod succeeded for only one reason that it was the only one advertised to regular consumers. Apple was able to hoist an inferior player on an unsuspecting public because none of the competitors were willing to educate the public on the far superior alternatives. That won't happen in the cell market. Apple won in the MP3 market because they got a free ride. A properly educated consumer marketplace will quickly be informed of the iPhone's horrific restrictions and will stay away.

I think Apple has always been known for three things. Nicely designed products, a great operating system and hype. The first two speak for themselves. The iPhone is a "great looking" phone, but like many things Apple, the look covers up a lot of the "hype" in their products. The Ipod, for example, was a nicely designed MP3 player, but it wasnt the only great mp3 player on the market, but Apple got the name for itself. The master hype story. When public thought mp3 player, they immediately related an mp3 player with an Ipod.

So now Apple releases the iPhone. Another designer product from Apple. The problem is that I don't think the hype machine will work as well with a cell phone. Why? Well many consumers, not just techno geeks are familiar with and understand their cellphones. They are familiar with the tech behind them, the features available for them etc. Its not like some brand new technology that the average non techy users would know nothing about. Cellphones are very common, and hence, its not so easy to overhype it to a public that understands what is available on the market in comparison.

So yes there will be many fans who will buy it for the nice shiny OSX interface, but all too many savy business users know there is too much "missing" from this phone to warrant it a serious PDA/smartphone replacement. I think The Apple hype machine may run out of steam with the iphone.

However there is a counter view also. The first generation iPod looks primitive when compared to the latest version of the video iPod. I sure this will be the case for the iPhone as well. If the iPhone is successful,it will mature, I’m sure, in a wonderful way.

Finally where will lauch of iPhone lead would lead Apple to with its coffers already overflowing due to ever increasing iPod sales.

King Henry Leaves the Throne...

2007-06-25T09:54:00.000+05:30

“Arsenal will be in my blood aswell as my heart. I will always, always, always remember you guys. I said I was going to be a Gunner for life and I did not lie because when you are a Gunner you will always be a Gunner. The Club is in my heart and will remain in my heart forever.” - Thierry Henry (23 June)

It is surely an end of an era as the great man, THIERRY HENRY leaves ARSENAL FC to join FC BARCELONA. A feeling of sadness has overpowered all fellow gunners as we loose the man who best represented the Arsenal Jersey with his fabulous goals. And, oh, what goals they were. Who can forget his hat-tricks against Liverpool and Roma, his double at Inter, solo efforts from inside his own half against Spurs and Real Madrid, or his flick up and volley over Fabien Barthez against Man Utd? The list goes on. I can still here d commentator shoutin in disbelief " HENRYYYYYYYYYYYY STRIKES !!!

It was on the cards especially after the departure of Viera, Pires, and recent one of David Dien. Everyone knows Henry has made this move most unwillingly, and I believe politics has done our club more harm than anything else in recent years. Henry wanted some stability...and clearly after departure of Dein he was unsetteled.
We all wanted Henry to bounce back and show them all what he's all about, I wanted Henry to take us out of this torrid times but all this was not to happen.
Very few gud arrivals at Arsenal but very big departures have become trend of the day. I loved henry but I have also come to realize that no one is bigger than the club, not even HENRY himself. We ll always remember him for all d great moments he gave us.

We bid you farewell and luck & hope you set the LA LIGA on fire. Henry is leavin the club but he'll always be there in our heart as gunner n only in red-white jersey.
And personally I dont blame him for leaving. He in 30 and everyone wants to play in a big club like Barca..

I'll be a GUNNER for rest of my life & I'll also be his craziest fan until i die.
But as I say all this, I know arsenal will fight back, I know we'll get through, I know we'll win.ARSENAL is no joke. We have done it in the past and we'll do it again. But I am waiting for the day when Arsenal meets Barca in UCL final....
Go Arsenal go........, we are with you as Gunners

Hail Titi,

Hail Arsenal....

also u can catch more at-
http://www.arsenal.com/article.asp?thisNav=News&article=473557&lid=NewsHeadline&Title=Henry+-+It+was+the+most+difficult+decision+of+my+life

Great Indian Presidential Drama

2007-06-21T11:04:00.000+05:30

As the governments world over are busy with how to maintain their economies, improve trade, production and efficency, in India politicians are involved in a fight for who would be next Indian President..Everyday new candidates appear, new alignments are formed and at the end of the day there is still confusion on who should be the first citizen.

But is this thing so important that politicians elected for Parliament, parties involves have made this a prestige issue thereby neglecting graver problems facing the country. President of India is a nominal & ceremonial head and all his powers are in fact vested by Prime Minister and council of ministers..so should there be all this drama??In fact President of our country should be non political distinguished identity who is respected throughout India and World & who can represent India at world stage.APJ Abdul Kalam was best choice for this post and if he is to be replaced(due to party diff) then maybe we can have some other personality like Narayanmurthy (Infosys Founder)...there is no scarcity of such people in India..

What we don't want are these altercations, spending of public money on futile debates over candidates whose name half of country don't even know and world is not even aware of them..and have been nominated just because of vote bank politics, interests etc.In place of all this drama our leaders should focus their attension on the problems faced by country like Allocation of SEZ, Disinvestment, Maintaining GDP, Improving trade....

We can only pray that this drama soon ends....

Significance of 1984...in Present World

2007-06-19T16:05:00.000+05:30

Having just read Orwell's 1984 I was fascinated by period, characters and idea characterized by him. Though the plot was realized in novel in1984...n since nothing of that dimension occurred people derided the novel stating it to be baseless and its idea unrealistic. But I think that maybe time is not correct we cannot escape the dangers mentioned in the Orwellian World. Author was not guessing the time of such catastrophe but was focusing on the dangers of such world. If we look around we can clearly see Orwellian Characteristics emerging in the society. Now think of the main idea of party-

WAR IS PEACE

FREEDOM IS SLAVERY

IGNORANCE IS KNOWLEDGE

The Book forwards the idea of another book by the same author-"Animal Farm",. World mentioned is divided into three almost equal powers in which there is complete dictatorship of a party. All movements and workings of citizens are continuously monitored and press and media are wholly controlled by the government which bends the news and facts in its favour. Prevalent language is "Newspeak" in which all worlds conveying the ideas opposed to party are eliminated. Any person with different opinion than party is "evaporated" or eliminated in party terms. All this is seen through the eyes of our main character "Winston Smith" who battles against all this. But essence of the story is how world of ours can develop into such a authoritative society which defeats the basic ideas of democracy, freedom etc.

How true these ideas appear today. America declares war on Iraq- Afghanistan that stretches for 5 years...kills millions..and still is claimed by the coalition forces to be the war fought for freedom, peace blah blah...

Governments hide information from people stating it is in there interests, people work under the directives of government, or similar organizations and still happy to be free...world becoming a board game where all policies are decided by few in control and the rest follows. Doesn't these suggest the coming of Orwellian World...

Think and imagine the world around you and don't you feel someone is watching you or you are bound by someones orders suggested in the novel by famous line -

BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU

No one is free to do what one thinks is correct but is considered wrong by the system. If you go against the system they either crush you, try to defame you similar to something happening in novel where the chief character realizes the idea mentioned in top line of this blog..

What I want to say is that though all these characteristics may not be present simultaneously but are nevertheless present in some form or the other...and it is our responsibility to remove these from our society and prevent the world from entering the Orwellian Phase...

about HITLER

2007-06-15T10:14:00.000+05:30

Adolf hitler dubbed as the most evil person is absolutely most hated person not only among Jews but also in whole of World..You can find massive commentries about horrors and crimes he commited on people but here I would like to mention some facts first:

1) all the crimes and horrors commited by Nazis are reported mostly by Americans, Russians or people opposed to Hitler. Now it is a known fact that -
" History is written by Victorious Power"
No one mentions the devastation caused by allied bombing and various atrocities they commited. Excellent example of this is Present Iraq War where no of deaths of both American soldiers as well as Iraqi civilians are widely mistated by American govt.,but since media today is much more developed they have revealed the truth. This was not the case in 1930-50 and so all that media has reported was in the hands of Allied Powers. Seeing war in this light can significantly change your opinion.

2) You should at the same time also admire the Administration skills of this person, the way he carried entire German Machinery on his own, his oratory skills, his power to influence and lead masses.

3) Progress made by Germany after devastation of first World War is superb and it was all because of Hitlers management and governing skills.

I am no neo-Nazi or anything like that...but just wanted to give my opinion that there where some positives in this man and not always that mentioned in books and media is truth. You should try to see the thing behind it.
Your opinion and criticism are welcome.
Auf Wiedersehen...

End to ARSENAL Misery??

2007-04-08T03:33:00.000+05:30

As an ardent Gunner...when will be there an end to the current slack of asrsenal form....one of the most successful teams in Premier League...Infact arsenal is among the few teams that has never been relegated to II Divison once being promoted to I Divison(Even Chelshits and Liverfools have been relegated)
Arsenal is known for there game play, perfectionism but i think this is taking toll...The desire to score 'A Perfect Goal' that Arsene Wenger has filled in Gunners is leading to losses against minnows like sheffield utd....
Also is the atitude of Arsenal Owners who provide paltry 20 million for signings when window opens in summers. Compare this to amount spend by Ambrowich, ManU, this will seam to be miniscule.... ok Arsenal dont need big signings and we know Wenger is intelligent enough to know what club need..but still we need some signins. In my opinion we must go for -

1) Agood center forward who without caring for perfect ball can put ball in net...our midfields provide enough passes but we can convert none in absence of Henry and vanPersie...which also shows lack of bench strength..

2) Agood goalkeeper....lehmanns good but i think falters at some places...maybe we can use him in CL but for EPL we must either improve Alumina or seek another one...