Maleiha surpassed our expectations!

A town on Al Dhaid to Madam road cross on Sharjah Kalba road with newly build Mleiha Archaeological centre as Centre of attraction. It offers a very natural desert experience. What more, there's more here at MLEIHA or Maleha, than meets the eye. There's life!. The rare site is about human history of bronze age, which inhabited in Sharjah's Maleiha about 130,000 years ago. The site was the seat of bronze age ancient South Arabian kingdom dating back to 300 BCE. Maleha - suits all target audiences; Be it Outdoor enthusiasts, history seekers, families, or explorers and those simply seeking relaxation will find what they are looking for in Mleiha. We drove around our Mitsubishi Lancer although the terrain demands a 4*4. There are roads to every site built for visitors. Polaris buggy can be bought on paying rent for those adventure seeking visitors. The world must appreciate Sharjah Tourism authority on efforts made to preserved the site. The museum is filled with surprising artifacts and stories. The excavations and discoveries we witnessed there were made over the past 40 years. Archaeologists managed to uncover some incomplete human skeletons and bones following grave robbers loot of artefacts from grave! The vast area of desert includes lot of walking, exploring and learning. there’s also something for thrillseekers – a heart-pumping ride through this pie of Sharjah desert on a Polaris buggy. Ancient rock, fossils desert and good food too! The viewing deck offers wonder full view of sunset. The site is a must visit here if you are in UAE.

Life mantra..

If you made a mistake, apologize. If you are stuck, ask for help. If you are grateful, show it. If you miss someone, reach-out to them. If you learn something new, teach it. If you love someone, tell them, now. If you are building a better future, invite others to join. @ValaAfshar

My sight of K’aba

The preparation for umrah travel was a period of self-fulfillment and overbearing. The wait for a long cherished dream was getting over. The excitement about sense of a tremendous change coming in my life cannot be found anywhere else. The thought of seeing the glorious K’aba with my own naked eyes was driving me to a different sense of life. The preparation for my first umrah was a unique spiritual experience which made me restless and nervous. Before my departure to Saudi Arabia with my wife and son, hoping mercy from Allah, we asked for forgiveness from those around us and carried their best wishes and requests with us. ************************************************* We arrived at 12:00am in Makkah, as we walked towards ‘Masjid-e-Harem’, in Ihram ( Ihram is the sacred state in which we carry out the required rituals to complete Hajj or Umrah. However, pilgrims also have to wear special clothing that is designed for the purpose of performing Umrah or Hajj), I felt an anticipation that causes an almost trembling of my body. The blessed Masjid is so huge and beautiful that this sight alone has an overbearing effect. Chanting labbaikallahumma labbaik, which is a very revolutionary chant in itself, we entered ‘Masjid-e-Harem’ at Makkah.On entering through king Fahad gate, I experienced a coolness and an unusual rush of blood in my veins. This path leads straight to well of black cube K’aba. With my wife walking on my side and son shahroz resting on my shoulder, where he and me were draped in two plain cloth piece, illustrating a stage of humbleness, total submission to almighty Allah we walked straight. I wanted a full first view of K’aba. With the shyness of a kid,I tried to raise my head to see if I had reached near the well of K’aba. On an abrupt sight, I witnessed a small black portion of the cuboid structure, where I paused for a moment to whisper the prayer on first sight of K’aba, even though I tried to resist glancing until the very last moment when it will be in complete view. All praise to almighty Allah, tears captured me with trembling feet, where I witnessed a sea of million worshippers prostrating and circling around K’aba. The sight was beyond my belief. I was reduced to a tiny creature of almighty. Tears of mine and others around were a result of joy and luck. My eyes were glued to the black cube K’aba. Except murmuring to my son that this is K’aba, like others, my heart and lips were immersed in supplication. I felt like a fakeer, but powerful with the proximity to Allah. I felt so strong that nothing can stop me from prostrating to him. On entering the well of K’aba for Tawaaf – seven circuits around the K’aba- the pilgrims were stuck in a gridlock. Each circuit around the K’aba must begin in line with the black stone – Hajr-e-Aswad. The circuit is anti-clockwise. We are just beggars with no name and identity of own, but only worshippers of the One and Only deity, worthy of worship; Allah. The four walls of K’aba are covered with a curtain (Kiswa). The kiswa is usually of black brocade with the Shahada (Testimony that there is no god,but Allah) outlined in the weave of the fabric. About 2/3rd’s of the way up runs a gold embroidered band covered with Qur’anic text. Ziauddin Sardar at an article in The Independent: Mecca, birthplace of Islam and also of the Prophet Mohamed, is Islam’s holiest city. It is a city that I, in common with almost all Muslims, have known all my life. A once-in-a-lifetime visit to Mecca is a key obligation. Most Muslims, however, will never see Mecca, and yet will have learnt, perhaps even memorized, its geography from the moment they were taught to pray. The first lesson for any Muslim child preparing to pray is to identify the location of Mecca, and then to prostrate in the direction of the city, not once, but five times daily. Before I proceed to further chapters about experience of Umrah, I remember that I was at the busiest place on earth. I witnessed every culture, nationality and types of people and it was my very duty to remain kind, courteous and gracious. I could find people with humility and kindness; they are the memories to keep. Umrah was one of the most special moments of my life.

Challenges for Indian Mutual Fund Industry in India

The Indian mutual fund industry needs to widen its range of products with affordable and competitive schemes to tap the semi-urban and rural markets in order to attract more investors. The industry has still not been able to penetrate among retail investors and it needs to share best practices from mature markets like US and Britain where mutual funds are the most preferred form of investment. Mutual fund companies need to introduce products for the semi-urban and rural markets that are affordable and yet competitive against low-risk assured returns of government sponsored saving schemes such as post office saving deposits. The industry is also overwhelmed by scarce technological infrastructure and needs to collaborate with other sectors of the economy such as banking and telecommunications. Mutual fund companies are also required take advantage of the growing opportunity in the commodities market. Further, the mutual funds could also enable the small investors to participate in the real estate boom through real estate mutual funds. With a strong regulatory framework, clear guidelines and the talent to back it up, the Indian mutual fund industry is in a position to cater to the new breed of investors who are keen to diversify their risks. The real estate sector and the road ahead Real Estate Mutual Funds (’REMFs’) The SEBI Board has now approved the guidelines for the much awaited Real Estate Mutual Funds. “Real Estate Mutual Fund Scheme” is defined to mean a scheme of a mutual fund which has investment objective to invest directly or indirectly in real estate property. Governing Law It is proposed that REMFs will be governed by the provisions and guidelines issued under SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations. REMFs, shall initially, be close ended. The units of REMFs shall be compulsorily listed on the Stock Exchanges and Net Asset Value (NAV) of the scheme shall be declared daily. Custodian The REMFs would be required to appoint a Custodian who has been granted a Certificate of Registration to carry on the business of Custodian of securities by the SEBI Board. The custodian would safe keep the title of real estate properties held by the REMFs. Investment Criterion: It is proposed that REMFs could invest in the following: - * Directly in real estate properties within India; * Mortgage (housing lease) backed securities; * Equity shares / Bonds / Debentures of listed / unlisted companies which deal in properties and also undertake property development; and in * Other securities

Food versus fuel: The emerging debate

Following the sudden emergence of demand from the energy sector, food prices globally have spiked like never before. Concerns over shortage of food are emerging. This has fuelled a 'food versus fuel' debate across the world. The global agribusiness scenario is undergoing a fundamental change, which started a couple of years back. Currently, it is not so much changes in food production or consumption, but the rapidly expanding bio-fuels sector that is seen driving the global grains and oil seeds market. Rising crude (mineral oil) market and State support for greener fuels have resulted in large investments in environment-friendly bio-fuel production, mainly in the US and the European Union. Fuelling a debate Developing countries are promoting bio-fuel production and consumption. Bio-fuels involve utilisation of traditional food crops for fuel purposes. Following the sudden emergence of demand from the energy sector, food markets globally have spiked like never before. Concerns over shortage of food are emerging. This has fuelled a "food versus fuel" debate across the world. A significant part of grains (corn/maize and wheat) is diverted for ethanol and of vegetable oils for bio-diesel. Bio-fuel feedstock (corn, wheat, cane, oilseeds/vegetable oils) prices are shooting up even as supplies for food and feed sectors are tightening. As feed prices rise, meat, poultry and dairy prices will rise too. The July 2007 OECD Outlook report forecast strong agri-commodity prices in the coming years owing to expanding usage of what are traditionally food crops for energy purposes. There is heightened concern among major food importers and consumers. The net food-importing poor countries are the worst hit. Countries are attempting to find political solutions to this development. China, for instance, has banned diversion of grains meant for food production for bio-fuels. But, major grain producers such as the US and the EU grant support for production and usage of renewable or green fuel. Large quantities of rapeseed oil, soya-bean oil and palm oil are used for bio-diesel. As a result, the world vegetable oil market is facing a bull run. Corn and wheat prices have nearly doubled. Globally, crops have begun to compete for acreage. In the US, corn and soybean fight for acreage and, in the 2007 season, corn won. The US soybean output is expected to be down by 15 million tonnes to about 72 million tonnes. The delicate balance Farmers have a choice and will plant the crop that is most remunerative. However, consumers have to bear the brunt of market price spikes. The relationship between food, feed and fuel is a delicate one. All the three are necessary for sustenance. There is now an emerging need for a harmonious balancing of the needs of the three sectors. It is necessary for policy-makers and stakeholders to not only prioritise, but also take steps to augment supplies. Indeed, the feed sector has some flexibility to substitute one grain for another. Stronger vegetable oil prices will encourage greater oilseed crushing which will result in the production of more oil-meals or extractions. In addition, DDG (dried distillers' grains) from corn (used for bio-ethanol production) will partially substitute soya-meal. So, the feed sector is less of a concern. But in food, such substitution is not possible always. There is need to augment food production and supplies. Also, food habits are hard to change. Given the rising bio-diesel demand and competition for acreage, soybean prices are likely to remain firm over the coming seasons. Over time, high prices will result in higher supplies; but such supply response will be lagged. Soy product producers have to reckon with the price action. To promote soy products usage, it is necessary to make the price of the products consumer-friendly. Inflation is already a serious issue in most countries. In particular, food inflation hurts the poor the most. The Indian Government is taking steps to check price rise. Imports have been liberalised and Customs duties have been slashed or waived. Nutrition insecurity The health benefits of soy are well-documented. India is facing the threat of creeping nutrition insecurity. There is serious deficiency of protein and calories. Given the age profile of the population (a young population ? 40 per cent of Indians are less than the age of 30) if the country really wants to reap the so-called demographic dividend in the coming years, investment in health and education is necessary. A sound mind in a sound body is the adage to follow. High-protein soy can help fight malnutrition, especially in the rural areas. Women and children are major victims of malnutrition. Access to and affordability of nutritious foods are issues to be addressed. Fighting obesity Soy needs to be first promoted among the farmers themselves. Mandatory blending of soy flour in food (say, wheat flour) may be explored. Such blends can be sold through the public distribution system to the vulnerable sections of people. If need be, such supplies should be subsidised. Another syndrome emerging in the country may be called demographic dichotomy. There is creeping obesity in the cities, especially among youth, and chronic under-nutrition in rural areas, especially among women and children. This trend needs to be checked. It is only through sustained commitment to deliver benefits to the society that any effort will succeed; and for the success of any such effort, it takes time. To be lasting, success has to be earned through commitment and patience.

ഡല്‍ഹിയിലെ ബലിപെരുന്നാള്‍ ഓര്‍മ്മക്കുറിപ്പ്

എന്‍റെ ഏറെകാലത്തെ ഡല്‍ഹി പെരുന്നാളനുഭവമാണ് ഞാനിവിടെ പങ്കുവെക്കുന്നത്. 2002 - ജാമിയ മില്ലിയ ഇസ്ലാമിയയില്‍ ബിരുദത്തിനു പഠിക്കുന്ന ആദ്യകാലം.മലയാളി വിധ്യാര്‍ത്തികള്‍ എന്ന് പറയാന്‍ മൂന്നു പേര്‍ മാത്രം. മറ്റുരണ്ടുപേരും എന്‍റെ സീനിയേഴ്സ് ആയിരുന്നു. ബിരുദ വിദ്ധ്യാര്‍ത്തി എന്ന നിലയില്‍ അധികം ലീവ് എടുക്കാനൊന്നും വകുപ്പില്ല.അതുകൊണ്ടുതന്നെ പെരുന്നാളാഘോഷിക്കാന്‍ അവരുടെകൂടെ നാട്ടില്‍പ്പോകാന്‍ പറ്റിയില്ല. എസ് ഐ ഓ അഖിലേന്ത്യാ ആസ്ഥാനത്തുള്ള ഹോസ്റ്റലിലായിരുന്നു താമസം. അവിടത്തെ അന്തേവാസികള്‍ക്ക് വേണ്ടി ആരോ ഒരു ആടിനെ ബലിക്കായി സ്പോണ്‍സര്‍ ചെയ്തിരുന്നു. ആ ആടിനെ കണ്ടോണ്ടാണ് ഉച്ചഭക്ഷണത്തിന് ഒരു ഡല്‍ഹി സുഹൃത്തിനെ ക്ഷണിച്ചത്. ളുഹര്‍ നമസ്കാരാനന്ദരം ഹോസ്റ്റെലിലോട്ടു ഭക്ഷണത്തിനായി അദ്ദേഹത്തെയും കൊണ്ട് വരുമ്പോഴും രാവിലെ കേള്‍ക്കുന്നുണ്ടായ ആടിന്‍റെ കരച്ചില്‍ ദൂരെനിന്നെ കേള്‍ക്കാമായിരുന്നു. പടച്ചോനെ,ആടിനെ അറുത്തിട്ടില്ലേ ?!! -എന്‍റെ പരവേശം കണ്ട അദ്ദേഹം പറഞ്ഞു: പരിഭ്രമിക്കേണ്ട, നമുക്കെന്‍റെ വീട്ടില്‍ പോകാം,കശാപ്പുകാര്‍ക്ക് വന്‍ ഡിമാണ്ടാണ് ഈ ദിവസം !!. ഒരല്‍പം ജാള്യതയോടെ ഞാന്‍ അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്‍റെ വീട്ടില്‍ചെന്നുഭക്ഷണം കഴിച്ചു. അങ്ങിനെ അഥിതി ആഥിധേയനായി!. ഇവിടെ ഈദ്‌ഗാഹ് നാട്ടിലുള്ളതുപോലെ തക്ബീര്‍ ധ്വനികളുള്ള ഒന്നല്ല...അത് പോലെ വളരെ വ്യത്യസ്തമാണ് പെരുന്നാള്‍ നമസ്കാരവും. എന്നാലും ജമാഅത്തെ ഇസ്ലാമി അഖിലേന്ധ്യ ആസ്ഥാനത്തെ ആ വിശാലമായ മൈദാനിയില്‍ നിറഞ്ഞ ജനക്കൂട്ടത്തിന്‍റെ നമസ്കാരം ഒരു കൗതുക കാഴ്ചയാണ്.
അറിയപ്പെട്ട ചില വ്യക്തിത്തങ്ങള്‍ ജ. ഇ മര്‍കസ് മൈതാനിയിലാണ്
പെരുന്നാള്‍ നമസ്കാരത്തിന് പങ്കെടുക്കുക. നമസ്കാരാനന്ദരം ഏക്കറോളം വരുന്ന മര്‍കസ് ഗ്രൗണ്ടില്‍ ഓരോരുത്തരുടെ ആടിനെ
അറുക്കുന്നതുകാണാം.ഉടുഹിയ്യത്തിണ്ടെ ഉര്‍ദു 'കുര്‍ബാനി'എന്നാണ്.തണുപ്പായതുകൊണ്ട് കുപ്പായമിട്ട ആടുകളെയാണധികവും കാണാന്‍ പറ്റുക.ബലിപെരുന്നാളിന് ഈ പ്രദേശത്തെ വീട്ടിലൊക്കെ വിവിധതരം മധുര പലഹാരങ്ങളാണ് അധിതികള്‍ക്ക് നല്‍കാര്‍. ഈദുല്‍ ഫിതറിനു സെവൈയാന്‍
(സേമിയ പായസം ) ആണ് പ്രമുഖ ഇനം.അതുകൊണ്ട് തന്നെ ''മിട്ടായി വാലി ഈദ്, സവിയ്യാന്‍ വാലി ഈദ്'' എന്നാണ് രണ്ടു പെരുന്നാളുകളെയും വിശേഷിപ്പിക്കാറ്.
അങ്ങനെ കഴിഞ്ഞുപോയി ആദ്യത്തെ പെരുന്നാള്‍ .

കാലം മുന്നോട്ടു നീങ്ങി...മലയാളികള്‍ കൂടുതലായി ഇവിടേയ്ക്ക് പഠനത്തിനും മറ്റുപല ആവശ്യങ്ങള്‍ക്കുമായി വന്നുതുടങ്ങി . അങ്ങനെ ഡല്‍ഹി മലയാളി ഹല്‍ക്കക്ക് വേണ്ടി പ്രത്യേക ഓഫീസും ഹോസ്റ്റല്‍ സൗകര്യങ്ങളും നിലവില്‍വന്നു . .
2008-ലെ ബലിപെരുന്നാളനുഭവം പറയാം ...അതിനു വലിയ പ്രാധാന്യമുണ്ട്. ബട്ട്ല ഹൌസ് ഏറ്റുമുട്ടല്‍ നടന്നത് പെരുന്നാളിനും കുറച്ച് ദിവസം മുന്‍പായിരുന്നു. അതുകൊണ്ടുതന്നെ, ഈദ്ഗാഹിലേക്ക് കടന്നു വരുന്ന പലരുടെയും കയ്യില്‍ ദു:ഖാചരണത്തിന്‍റെ ഭാഗമായി കറുത്ത നാട ധരിച്ചിരുന്നു. സാധാരണ നടത്തിവരാറുള്ള പ്രവാചക ചരിത്ര കഥകളില്‍ നിന്നും വ്യത്യസ്തമായ ഖുത്ബയാണന്നുണ്ടായതും.'മുസ്ലിംകളുടെ ശക്തി'യെക്കുറിച്ച്.തുടര്‍ന്ന് അവര്‍ക്കുവേണ്ടി പ്രാര്‍ഥനയും,നിയമസഹായത്തിനായിപിരിവും
നടക്കുകയുണ്ടായി. ഇവിടെ ആടിന്‍റെ ലേലംവിളി രസകരമാണ് .ഒരാഴ്ചമുമ്പേ പുരാന ദില്ലിയിലെ ചരിത്ര പ്രസിദ്ധമായ ജുമാ മസ്ജിദ് പരിസരം ആടുകളാല്‍ നിബിടമാകും..അണ്ടിപരിപ്പ്, ബദാം എന്നിവ കൊടുത്തു പോറ്റുന്ന ആടുകളുണ്ട്.കടല ,പയര്‍ വര്‍ഘങ്ങള്‍ കഴിക്കുന്ന ആടുകളെ അപേക്ഷിച്ച് ഇവയ്ക്കു വില കൂടുതലാണ്, ഏതാണ്ട് അന്‍പതിനായിരം രൂപ .ALLAH,786 ചന്ദ്രക്കല തുടങ്ങി ഇങ്ങനെ പച്ച
കുത്തിയ ആടുകളും ലേലത്തിനു ലഭ്യമാണ്.പച്ച കുത്തിയും,ജനിച്ചപ്പോള്‍ തന്നെ ആടിന്റെ ശരീരത്തിലെ തൊലി അടര്‍ത്തിയും മറ്റുമാണ് ഈ പേരുകള്‍ ശരീരത്തില്‍ ആലേഖനം ചെയ്യുന്നത്.ഇവയ്ക്കു നാലര ലക്ഷം വരെ വില വരും!!. വില
കൂടിയ ആടിനെ വാങ്ങുന്നത് ആട്യത്തിന്‍റെ ഭാഗം. അവനവന്‍റെ ജാഡക്കനുസരിച്ച്
വേണമല്ലോ സമൂഹത്തില്‍ പൊങ്ങച്ചം കാണിക്കാന്‍.
എന്നാല്‍ പെരുന്നാള്‍ നമസ്കാരാനന്ധരം ജാതി വ്യത്യാസമില്ലാതെ എല്ലാവരും
തമ്മില്‍ ഹസ്തദാനവും മൂന്നു പ്രാവശ്യം ആലിന്ഘനവും ചെയ്യുന്നത് സന്തോഷം
പകരുന്ന അനുഭവമാണ്. പുത്തന്‍ വസ്ത്രങ്ങളണിഞ്ഞ് പരസ്പരം സന്ദര്‍ശനങ്ങള്‍
നടത്താനും ആഹ്ലാദകരമായ അന്തരീക്ഷത്തില്‍ സ്നേഹാശംസകള്‍ കൈമാറി സൗഹൃദം
പുതുക്കുന്നതിനുമുള്ള ദിനം കൂടിയാണ് പെരുന്നാള്‍.പ്രത്യേകിച്ചും
മലയാളികള്‍ ഉത്തരേന്ധ്യന്‍
സുഹൃത്തുക്കളെ സന്ദര്‍ശിക്കുന്ന ദിവസം.ആര്‍ക്കും ആരുടേയും വീട്ടില്‍ കയറി
ചെല്ലാം,മധുര പലഹാരങ്ങള്‍ കഴിക്കാം... മത ഭേദമന്യേ എല്ലാവരെയും ആ
സന്തോഷത്തില്‍ പങ്കാളികളാക്കുകയാണെങ്കില്‍ രാജ്യത്തിന്‍റെ ഈ മേഖല
അനുഭവിക്കുന്ന വര്‍ഘീയ ചേരിതിരിവ്‌,ചരിത്രപരമായി പെരുകിവരുന്ന വൈരാഘ്യം
എന്നിവ ഇല്ലാതാക്കാന്‍ ഒരു പരിധിവരെ കഴിഞ്ഞേക്കാം . ആഹ്ലാദം നിറയുന്ന
സന്ദര്‍ഭങ്ങള്‍ സൃഷ്ടിക്കുക എന്നത് ഇവിടെയുള്ള ഓരോരുത്തരും അവരവരുടെ
കടമയായി ഏറ്റെടുത്തിരുന്നെങ്കില്‍ എന്ന് ആശിച്ചു പോകുന്നു. നമ്മുടെ
നാടിനും കാലത്തിനും ഏറ്റവും ആവശ്യമായിരിക്കുന്നത് അത് തന്നെയാണ്.
ഇപ്പോള്‍ ഇവിടെ മലയാളി മുസ്ലിം കൂട്ടായ്മയായ ഡല്‍ഹി മലയാളി ഹല്‍ക്ക വളരെ
വ്യവസ്ഥാപിതമായി പ്രവര്‍ത്തിക്കുന്നത് കൊണ്ട്,മലയാളികളായ ആര്‍ക്കും തന്നെ
ഒറ്റപ്പെടല്‍ അനുഭവപ്പെടുന്നില്ല.പെരുന്നാള്‍ ദിവസം വൈകുന്നേരങ്ങളില്‍
ഇന്ത്യ ഗെയ്റ്റിലാണ് ഹല്‍ക്ക പ്രവര്‍ത്തകര്‍ ഒരുമിച്ചു കൂടാര്‍ .കുട്ടികളെയും
മുധിര്‍ന്നവരെയും ഒരുപോലെ പങ്കെടുപ്പിച്ച്ച്ചുകൊണ്ടുള്ള രസകരമായ
വിവിധതരം കലാപരിപാടികള്‍ ഹല്‍ക്കാ ഭാരവാഹികള്‍ നടത്തി വരാറുണ്ട് .
ബലിപെരുന്നാള്‍ കഴിഞ്ഞാലും പിന്നീടുള്ള ഒരാഴ്ച വരെയെങ്കിലും ഈദ്
മുബാറകും,കുര്ബാനിയും തുടരും.അതുകൊണ്ടുതന്നെ ഇറച്ച്ചിക്കടകള്‍
ഒരാഴ്ചയോളം അടവാണ്.

ഫോട്ടോ: ജ.ഇ അഖിലെന്ധ്യ ആസ്ഥാനം.
ശുഐബ്

Seeking to establish values and morality

I happen to attend the launching of Welfare Party of India, two days ago at Mavlankar Hall, New Delhi. The ceremony itself conveyed a right message when it brought together leaders of various sects of Indian political and social life, and the leadership of the party rests with such diverse people. The usual grievance of mainstream political parties failing the communities and using it as a vote bank and the need for the marginalised communities as well as those in the mainstream to become politically conscious was reiterated by speakers from across the country.
Dr. S Q R Ilyas, a senior Jamaat leader and one of the brains behind the party, reminded every now and then that the WPI is not a Muslim party.

The president of Indian Islahi Movement Abdul Wahab Khilji,Former Karnataka Minister and social activist Lalitha Naik, Catholic Priest Father Abraham Joseph, Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, and ex- MP Ilyas Azmi will be the vice presidents. Dr. Syed Qasim Rasul Ilyas has been elected as one of the general-secretary of the new political party.

The Welfare Party of India aims at reforming Indian politics and realizing a welfare state based on moral values and governed by the principles of justice, freedom, equality and fraternity.The party would play a different role than the existing ones are, esp in holding foundations of our democratic values and constitution.

Dr.S.Q.R Illyas, said that this would just not just be an additional 1201th party registered with Election Commission of India, but a party to play a leading interventional role to establish and practice ethics and value. The leaders of Jamat-e-Islami hind, one major promoter of this party, received good applause from the activists and thinkers for the integrity they practice and the sympathy they shower upon human. Of course, it is what Mahatma Gandhi expressed. I hope that would be long lasting ,given the corrupted and vitiated atmosphere of this country.

There was also fund raising from the public for party activists and the response was heartening with good support from all.Many assembled there found their dream come true by launching such aam aadmi dream of many years.

Surely, i find hope in them in this time of burglars ruling the country.

Join the page to support if you wish :
http://www.facebook.com/home.phpsk=group_132222996846081&ap=1

Disaster man made

Japan, a nation at the brink of a nuclear disaster while recovering from earthquake and tsunami. The citizens are seeking refuge in other countries due to fear, that too from a nation synonymous with best of the technology.Hello, Mr. PM of India, are you still fond of pursuing the Jaithpur nuclear power plant or with the nuclear power with the support of US.Friends,pass on your message against nuclear power among your circle,create a national opinion

A tale of unending attacks -1

Maoist rebels kill 24 police in eastern India
February 16, 2010, Associated Press.

Pune blast: Death toll climbs to 10
February 16, 2010, DNA, Mumbai

Two attacks,two different reasons, but the clear reason for second one is unknown.First one is clearly illustrated as it is an act of Maoists,whom the Prime Minister have termed as the biggest threat to country.But the latter ones are unknown.The media is ready with their news (notion) of Laskar,IM,HM...all such Ms.And these are never worth trusting, as the source of news is from police, intelligence or media themselves. And i attribute the ever increasing terror attacks to this misinformation and wrong priorities.As long as we do not come in to terms with truth, these terror evils would strike us more.The police,media and bureaucracy of this greatland is poisoned by saffron sangh parivar elements, who knows only language of hate.
It was few months back Mr. S M Mushrif, a retired IPS officer, and IG Maharashtra of maharashtra wrote his book, ‘Who killed Karkare ?’.Ironically, despite all the truth he has managed to jot down in his daring work, he couldn’t get the kind of coverage or response in the Media. The sort of debate or discussion it should spark off in the market sounds missing though, the reasons are obvious, which he himself disclosed in his recent visit to Nagpur on 2nd and 3rd January 2010 in conference organised by Bahujan Sangarsh Samiti Nagpur Chapter.

He said that, despite the 20-25 different journalists from the various big and small Media houses both the print and electronic, which interviewed him on 28th October 2009 at his Pune based residence; nothing really appeared the following day, except in small time Newspapers of the city. His work was totally brought below the carpet; nobody really cared to debate or discusses it in public domain, thanks to the kind of pressure the Saffron brigade has created on the Media industry.

The 2 Laptops recovered by Karkare after Sadhvi Pragya’s arrest disclosed, how the Hindu Terror Network was responsible for the series of bomb blasts carried out and making Muslim innocent youths responsible for the same. The Laptop recovered, had ample of information, about how the Hindu terror group materialized this anti national activities using people and groups of different expertise and resource. These groups of men included some high profile industrialists, politicians, Media professionals, Historians, Academicians and so on.
This new nexus coming into light was well exposed by our real hero, the ATS Chief, Hemant Karkare. This man made a promise to himself that he will leave no stone unturned to let the world know the truth. However, before he could do this, he was knocked out of this mortal world in a very mysterious fashion during the 26/11 Mumbai attack.
Any comments......?

With inputs from Mohd. Ziyaullah Khan, countercurrents

My name is khan:Sharukh proves it

One cannot be bullied all the time. Take a lesson, people. Always stand ground for your rights.This is the first time anyone's stood up to these goons! Thank you! We must not accept violence and the suppression of our right to voice our own opinions! We are free! Spread the word, and say it loud!
Bal Thackaray and his associates are cowards...they have not uttered a single word (they were not at all heard) one month since 26/11.

Destructive Psychological Warfare

Abridged and very rough translation of the December 16th, 2009 editorial of the leading Daily, Maadhyamam (Calicut, Kerala).

The Sachar committee that looked into the condition of the Indian Muslim minority has pointed out to the anxieties about their self and security faced by the Muslims and the helpless situation where in Muslims are constantly asked to proove that they are not anti-nationals or terrorists. The Sachar committee observes that the social and educational backwardness of this community can be attributed to this insecurity that they face. The Liberhan commission also underlines this and shows how the propaganda that Muslims are more devoted to Pakisthan than India is entirely false. Both historically and socially the Kerala Muslim has been free of the traumas of this identity crisis that has been haunting this nation's largest religious minority. The Sachar committee also talks about how the Kerala Muslims are in a comparatively better social position because of this.

But some people seem to be hell-bent on destroying the traditional communal harmony and security that Muslims have been enjoying in Kerala. This is what the recent raging debates in the contemporary media makes one think. At one time, when the news came that four Malayalees were killed in Kashmir there was a huge media propaganda that claimed that thousands of Malayalee suicide bombers were being recruited to Kashmir from Kerala. High level police officials had to call for a meeting to dispel the ill-effects of such a propaganda by saying that all these these stories were baseless and were mostly highly exaggerated media reports. However soon, the uproar about love jihad started in the media. 14 of the 18 reports submitted by police superintendents under the command of the Kerala High court refuted the media claims and showed that love jihad does not exist in Kerala.

The remaining ones, it was later proved were based on false complaints that had no basis in real facts. Even the central home ministry has confirmed that love jihad is baseless. Even the DGP of BJP ruled Karnataka has said the same. In spite of all this, the rumor mongering industry is still flourishing through the media of Kerala. What should we make of this?

Even before this has died out, the Thadiyantavide Naseer battle has started. It is clear that this criminal who has been wandering about after failing SSLC has at last been trapped. It is also necessary that he should be questioned in detail and at length. If there are more people who have been involved in unlawful activities they should also be brought to court. Nobody is big or small before the law. But no one other than the police is allowed to meet Naseer. Media is also not allowed to contact him. Yet, for the Kerala media, Nasser is the South Indian commander of the Pakistan based terrorist organization, LeT, He is also the master mind of everything that has and will happen. Till now, the version from the Central home ministry was that those responsible for the 2008 Delhi blasts were all killed in the Batla encounter. Now we hear a different story. Naseer, it seems, is responsible for this too. Things do not end here. Nasir is said to be responsible for the Aluva incident where a bus by the Tamilnadu transport corporation was burned. It seems he contacted Madani's wife, Soofiya, before and after the incident. So Soofiya has been added as the 10th accused in this case. She might land in jail in a few days.

If you have committed a crime, you should be punished. But if we look at the fireworks in the media, the image of Soofiya, the house wife, is portrayed in such dreadful and terrifying terms that even the Palestinian Crusader, Laila Khalid who shocked the world by organizing the world's first hijacking, dims in front of her. In most people's mind today she is the dreaded wife of the terrifying terrorist Madani. Remember that all this is happening in a country were those who have burned bus full of people are still going free without being punished. Many political parties are also using this incident to settle old scores. We want to point out that this case is not only a matter that concerns Madani or other leaders alone, but is also one that is going to have direct ramifications on the situation of peace and harmony in Kerala.

Swiss Minarets or western intolerance?...Decide what?

Some argue--"non-muslims are not even allowed into mecca and no other religions are tolerated in muslim countries"

I am surprised at these ignorance utterances. The Islamic world is filled with churches in places where there are christian minorities. Yes saudi arabia doesnt have that but then again, how many mosques are there in the VATICAN?? and its not like Muslims are free to worship all over the christian world as not all of the christian world follows religious freedom. These mongers need to check their facts before they speak.
switzerland claims to be a democratic secular country not a church-state or a opressive state hence why you cant use the same kind of standards of countries with dictators as thats hypocrisy. By the way, count how many churches there are in Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, Egypt alone and then compare that to how many mosques there are in the entire EU!!

If a muslim country had voted against building churches in a Islamic country the "holders of democratic values" would say nothing right? you would just say "we respect their honesty and we will not condemn it"? Yeah right, you guys would have bombed that country to pieces in the name of bringing it democracy! My God, Isn't their a limit to your hypocrisy

why are we trading and traveling to these people lands? Just look at the reality: they need us more than we need them yet we tolerate their insults intolerance and hatred continually.

If you do not know what happened during the Dark Ages in Europe you should read about this European era. And if you do not know who helped Europe emerge from its Darks Ages you should read about that too. And if you do not know who inspired Saint Thomas Acquinas to reconcile between Faith and Reason you should read about that too. Watch "Islam Empire of Faith", that will tell better about historical facts.

I read through a news that politicians and people are taking steps to reopen a historic Christian Seminary in Istanbul.Senem Ozer, US opines that Europe is banning a small community mosque, while caving into fears of their own fringe nationalistic fears. I think it's clear who is more "European" in this regard. Turkey is certainly more European than Switzerland today.

(I wanted to vent out my frustration..thanks to my own conscience and other websites i have referred,like Al Manar,for their inputs)

prime minister uses this kind of buttering techniques...

No replacement for US dollar...says Dr.Manmohan Singh.

When IMF decide to sell off 400 Tons of Gold, with the demand supply principle the gold prices should have fallen. Instead it sky rocketed. And knowing that the demand supply principle didn't work, the economic viz kid went ahead and purchased 200 Tons of Gold in a high price. If Dr. Prime Minister had so much trust in US currency, why purchased gold, that too when the prices are on record high???

It is simple currency terrorism, some nation simply enjoy becuase they trade and retain us dollars and usa citizen buy so cheap product that is made in third world low currency exchange, india is in trap of usa , it is only country which welcome whole chaeap product to its middleclass and earn taxes and export expensive weaponaries.

Usa need more chines than india because chinese are so cheap and easy to start their business at lower cost and manipulate exchange rate rediculously,,,india is very far away,,,,it is not devlopment it is another sort of casino gambling,, rob pope and donate to mike to usa.

Manmohan might have brokered in providing India with H1B visas (H1N1 virus also)and back office jobs is their mantra...both these had its setbacks.....creating a youth pool without creativity.The ash posh lifestyles are taught in these back offices by offering them late night pub parties,language,culture training...etc....most of the back office works are causing underutilisation of well educated youth possssing MBAs and other degrees....A culture of laziness and consumerism has been imported indian way of life and thinking...which stunted innovation and self sustenance

Nobel Prize - Made for U.S.A

That the Peace Nobel has been given to the leader of a country that is killing people in two countries with illegal war is shocking.The devastation other nations are facing due to them are aside. And it has been given for the posturing and promises that Mr. Obama has made. He is yet to fulfil even one of his major promises. But nothing much can be expected from a group which did not think it fit to award the Peace Prize to Mahatma Gandhi, the Apostle of Peace.

The Washington Post reported that Mr. Obama, during his presidential campaign, indicated that he would use military force to fight terrorism in Pakistan. But after getting elected, we find him playing safe with Pakistan.

For an effective communicator like Mr. Obama and an equally supportive American media, the Nobel is a natural by-product, however unwise and confusing his assertions on foreign and military affairs are.

Polluting yamuna.........

It is estimated that 1300 durga puja were offered in delhi
30 tonnes of toxic elements go into yamuna due to idol immersion every wear says a 2008 study
In kolkata and Mumbai, many organizers of durga puja and ganesha festivals started immersing idols in artificial ponds to spare the rivers and the sea.

Time for delhi too...before yamuna becomes history......

Eid shopping spree in Delhi

Jamia Nagar is dazzling with lights. Roads are lined with kurtas, as shopkeepers try to lure customers. Hawkers are busy selling vermicelli and dry fruits. Markets here have been hit by a heavy rush of customers who are on a buying spree as the festival of Eid is barely a week away.

The majority of the shoppers are women who are busy buying special utensils and ingredients like dry fruits to make Eid's Dastarkhawan, a sheet where food is spread, impressive. In contrast, male customers are flocking to the kurta pajama, sherwani and kolhapuri chappal shops.

Eid or Eid-ul-Fitr is one of the most important festivals for Muslims that marks the end of Ramzan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Eid is an Arabic word meaning "festivity", while Fitr means "charity"; and so the holiday symbolizes the breaking of the fasting period. It is celebrated on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal.

The other shopping hubs are also bustling with enthusiastic people buying things.

Sarojini Nagar in South Delhi is one such market that is teeming with shoppers.

"It's like a battle won, if you get to choose your stuff and buy it. I came here (Sarojini Nagar ) at around 10 a.m. and it has been more than four hours, but I have not been able to complete my shopping because the sales guys are so busy and the shops are so crowded that you have to wait at least 20 minutes for your turn." Shaqib Jamal, a shopper who came to buy clothes for his family, told IANS.

"During Eid it's obvious that the crowds are at its peak and we make full efforts to utilise this opportunity and touch maximum sales every day and we get incentives for it," Rajesh, a salesman in Sarojini Nagar, said.

Shop owners in South Extension have also expressed their delight at the increase in customers visiting their stores.

"There has been a great increase in customers in the last five days especially looking for kurtas and pyajamas to wear on Eid and the customers are ranging from 20 to 45 years of age. Silk kurtas are more in fashion this time," Prabhjeet Singh, owner of the show room Kurta Palace in South Extension, told IANS. Singh expected a further increase in customers.

Elahana Moora, store manager at Globus in South Extension, says: "We have seen a substantial increase in the number of customers in all ranges of products from clothing to households goods and feel it is all because of the festivals."

Courtesy:Nabeel A.Khan, IANS

Recession times

Great monetarist economist Milton Friedman was of the opinion that the central bank could always deal with deflationary problems by dropping money from a helicopter. However, in the real world, not everyone is underneath the helicopter when it makes the drop. In fact, it is likely that the helicopter pilot will hover over friends and relatives when dropping the money. And even if the pilot is completely non-corrupt, the crowd on the ground will always assume that there is some hidden and partisan plan.

In the lap of nature

Few pics from konkan valley during my journey back to kerala by train:

http://s614.photobucket.com/albums/tt229/shuhaibim/From%20KonKan%20Valley/