Significance of August 15 by Sandip K. Dasverma

Significance of August 15 :
India became Independent on, Aug 15, 1947, starting an avalanche of colonial independences in Asia and Africa, which ended colonialism. This day we are celebrating Indian independence.
15th of August, is also a national holiday in many countries around the world, but all of them celebrate some thing different except Republic of Korea, which gained independence on 15th Aug 1948.
Major events that this day is also commemorated for, are:

1. Italy commemorates August 15, as one of the most important Catholic holidays, because Catholics believe it's the day Virgin Mary was transported directly to Heaven to be with her son, Jesus.
2. Napoleon Bonaparte was born on 15 August 1769, and France celebrates the day as national holiday, still in his honor.
3. Fifty four years ago, on August 15, 1945 several Asian countries won their freedom when Japan surrendered on this day, which ended the World War II. Although the formal surrender came later on September 2, 1945, Asian freedom fighters in Korea, Indo-China and Indonesia were freed and won their independence on August 15, 1945 from the clutches of the Japanese Imperialism.

The Indian Independence Day, Aug 15, 1947 had a lot of meaning for us when we were children and a lot of significance was attached to it. It had something to do with our Country being pulled off the cage. From what I see, the youth these days are not sentimental or reverential about it, perhaps because they have not seen or known about the struggles to free our Country from the foreign yoke.
India’s 1st Prime Minister, Nehru’s speech on 15th August 1947, is a classic and I will briefly quote from the same:
“Long years ago we made a tryst with destiny, and now the time comes when we will redeem our pledge, not wholly or in full measure, but very substantially. At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance .... We end today a period of ill fortune, and India discovers herself again."

It indeed ended a period which culminated from sacrifices of many. Gandhians were of course well recognized, but there were many others too, who both preceded and succeeded Mahatma Gandhi & his followers. From Dada Bhai Naroji to the anarchists of Bengal. From Madam Cama to Surya Sen of Chitagong Armory raid fame. From Lala Lajpat Rai to Bal Gangadhar Tilak. From Khudiram Bose to veer Savarkar to Rash Behari Bose and INA heros. The Gaddar Party to the Hindustan Republican Party, The Anushilan Party & Jugantar group to Chadrasekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh. Ramprasad Bismil and Ashfaqulla Khan and Laxman Nayak,just to name only a few.

I always revere highly Ashfaqulla because of his secular spirit, which permeated the patriots of his age and time. His repartee when a police interrogator told him not to insist on independence of India because British rule will be replaced by Hindu rule, is legendary. He said and I quote: "Khan Sahib, I am quite sure that Hindu India will be much better than British India, because it will be ruled by an Indian.” For his arrogance and straight talk, he was sent to gallows. The burning question is whether we are living up to these hopes, ideals and dreams, which lead to supreme sacrifices.

The list of patriots goes on and on and on. They included nationalists and patriots from all regions, religions, language groups, casts and all strata of the society.
The theme song of movie Sahid Bhagat Singh, a poem written by famous revolutionary poet Ramprasad Bismil, depicts their spirit and what they promised to their mother land:
“Aye watan aye watan
Hum ko teri kasam
Teri raahon mein jaan tak luta jayenge
Phool kya cheez hai tere kadmon mein hum
Bhent apne saron ki chadha jayenge.

Koi Punjab se koi Maharashtra se
Koi UP se to koi Bengal se
Teri pooja ki thaali mein laaye hai hum
Phool har rang ke aaj har daal se – ---

What happened to that spirit? What happened to that dedication among the youth? The pre-birth resolve and the post birth euphoria of the young Indian nation? Today India is 62 years old as a nation. It’s energy is sapped by a bunch of greedy Swiss bank a/c holder billionaires, and corrupt politicians. But India is young compared to our adopted nation, The USA, which is 233 years old. Yet due to constant renewal, it is vibrant and innovative. Recently it elected it’s first black president. India on the other hand is still in the quagmire of riots and inequality, injustice and lack of opportunity.
Yes, out of 1200 million, 600 million Indians are on the go, but, yes there is a big but. They are leaving behind the other 600 million, who I call Bharat, as is. As the otherwise successful, Bajpayee Government learnt to it’s dismay in 2004, this can’t happen and will not happen. Because that is not in sync with our national ethos. India has to carry Bharat, as it advances to the 21st century. As Universities proliferate, primary and secondary education has to be taken care of, for them to succeed. India can’t be half world class and half middle age. The economic progress has to be inclusive and based on social justice, because the ones we live behind are our brothers and sisters.
We in the Diaspora have a big responsibility, to help make it happen. Every thing starts small and our local IATC(India Association of Tricities, USA) is now in young capable hands. I request them to start to think and act in this direction. We can associate with organizations like: Asha for Education or Pratham. Let us move forward and use all that we have learnt in our adopted country to our birth country, to bring progress and harmony.
(A speech delivered at IATC celebration of Indian Independence Day, Richland, WA, USA on August 15, 2009 )
1. Asfaqulla Khan:
2. Ramprasad Bismil
3. Chandrasekhar Azad
4. Saheed Bhagat Singh
5. Rashbehari Bose
6. Laxman Nayak

15 Medical Colleges in Orissa - A list

Medical Colleges in Orissa: By Govt of Orissa(GOO), Govt of India or undertaking(GOI) & Private entities.
Summery of Status:
Out of a total of 15 proposed so far 8 are already located in and around BBSR and two more are being proposed there. That leaves 5 that are out side that area. Two of them are already established since the early 60s at Berhampore and Burla(Sambalpur). Leaving 3 only that are being proposed outside BBSR area. One each in Koraput, Talcher and Balasore. I am proposing that those two be moved out to the uncovered areas of the state. That locates more than 50% of all medical colleges of the state in BBSR area. This includes the Medical college that will be part of Vedanta University, which will be in nearby Puri-Konark road(A direct road will make it less than 50 KM of BBSR.

State & central Governments have taken serious steps to establish Government medical college in Bhubaneswar and other parts of the state, for example
1. State Government Medical Colleges(GOO) in ODisha are(4)
• SCB Medical College Cuttack
• Capital (Hospital) Medical College Bhubaneswar
• VSS Medical College Sambalpur
• MKCG Medical College Berhampur

2. Medical College proposed by Central Government(GOI) Ministries in ODisha are(7):
• AIIMS like institute in Bhubaneswar
• Medical College would also be established under proposed National (world class) University at Bhubaneswar
• ESI Medical College (GOI) proposed to move to BBSR.
• Railway Medical College,(GOI) proposed at BBSR
• Medical College under Central University of ODisha at Koraput
• Ministry of Coal has already proposed Medical College in Talcher by MCI
• State Government is also working on a proposal to establish a Medical College in Balasore by Defence Department
•
3. Private Medical Colleges in ODisha(4):
• KIMS Bhubaneswar
• Hi-Tech Medical College Bhubaneswar
• Sum & IMS medical College Bhubaneswar
• Vedanta University Medical College

A letter to Asia Peace on Leftist and pseudo-secularists by SKD

Dear Omar Saab:
What you say is correct. It is the same section which admired Indira Gandhi, it is the same section which admires Narendra Modi. "advanced by the Indian leftists and pseudo-secularists", these words are usually used by Narendra Modi, Lal Advani and their elk. Originally, added to the lexicon by L. K. Advani, these words are found in the vocab of the Indian right wing, whose India shining slogan bit the dust 5 plus years back. I am surprised that Chat Saab espouses the same words, though I am not sure if he is coming from the same school of thought.

I for one give credit to the "Indian leftists and pseudo-secularists", for keeping India from following the neo-con economic policy of the USA's, into the current economic disaster. Indian economy did not follow the USA's , hook, sinker and bait, because left’s objection to removal of the checks and balances. Thus they were not removed as the Indian neo-con wanted. Other wise India's 600 million poor would have suffered as never before. And probably NREGA would never have happened. It is now being speculated that the beneficiaries helped congress over that top. In addition a second Harshad Mehta has not surfaced yet, thanks to the checks and balances left in place, due protest and resistance "advanced by the Indian leftists and pseudo-secularists", though Satyam scandal did surface.

As far as General Musharaf is concerned, he represents the what the big business favors, one point contact. It is no wonder that USA, till recently, has always supported dictators because business has found them more pliable. That is what Indian stock market is roaring about.

In addition when Musharaff came Nawaz Sharif had moved to extreme right, and almost fascist.(remember invading supreme court to evict the Chief Justice? He, so as to use the street power of the Mullah had supporting them openly, though PPP was no great socialists either. The weak civil society - now rejuvenated/reborn by the lawyer's movement (some say it came in to existence) will I hope and wish, destroy the vestiges fascist power that the ruling parties have in the subcontinent, soon.

In my opinion as the PMs have become weak (unlike Indira Gandhi tenure, for example), the institutions like Supreme Court, Election Commission, became strong. With them the civil society and democracy, has moved forward. No one has the absolute stranglehold on power, any more.

One major hurdle remain - the power of money - which was very clear during the last election and during No-confidence vote in Indian parliament last year. This is suspected to continue, due to the Congress Government coming back to power. Gandhi family is being suspected of having huge money in Swiss banks. Total Indian's deposits are estimated to be $1.5 trillion, held by some 35000 or so, Indians. I wish the Indian intelligentsia goes after the exposure of this huge money and bring the money power to control. Though BJP operatives are no saint in this respect, the primary culprits are the congress operatives, simply because they have remained in power the longest time in last 62 years. Lastly, this is a party where a large section where the great grand sons of the freedom fighters are now rising to power, thus scruples are low and connections are deep. More money in Swiss bank helps. I wish G-20 brings out every thing in to open and the parties are cleansed of the opportunists, in one big sweep.

A cleaned Indian politics, will surely help the world but till such time it will be impossible. Yes, Pakistan should trace Musharaf’s money, asap. Else he will come back through the backdoor, buying his way back.

Best wishes,
Sandip

Letter to PM & Congress High Command on Cabinet Ministers from Orissa - by Sandip K. Dasverma

Dear Prime Minister and Congress High command:
Congratulations for 3 fold increase in Congress MPs from Orissa(from 2 to 6). Of course this, if you come with the philosophy of describing the cup, as half full. I am afraid, the very fact that BJD won again, should come as a food for your thought.

Let me reiterate the facts. Congress lost 15 out of 21 seats in Orissa because of poor candidate selection. I don't know if you are aware of Orissa history. Your congress president, Kamakhya N. Singdeo's father was a very hated figure, in pre-independent India, among congress men. One of the major movements of Orissa was against the rule of his father. A victim of that movement, 12 year old "Baji Rout" is a folklore in Orissa. Making him Indian National Congress President, over the hated 3 time CM "Janaki B. Pattanayak" was not an improvement but as such. Additionally, there was a lurking fear among the people of Orissa that, Janaki Pattnaik will come back in after the election to be the CM of Orissa, through the back door. No wonder when Shri Naveen Pattanayak made the amends to his long association with BJP, he romped home sweeping the election. But that is all past. Let us have our eyes fixed on future.

We need alternative leadership in this long neglected state. To make this happen we think and request you to wisely select MPs in to the Cabinet who can lead the state back to congress fold. But more importantly – this leadership can lead the development of Orissa's Western and southern districts, among the most backward in India.
Current lone minister from Orissa in National cabinet was Mr. C. S. Sahu. He could do nothing because he was both junior and in an inconsequential minister of State. And he lost the election because he could hardly deliver any significant leadership and bring much resources to the state.
Thus we recommend that you to induct in to Union Cabinet 2 Ministers and a state minister, from among the six elected MPs, so you will groom a team of current and future leaders.
1. Cabinet Rank:
1. Bhakta Charan Das, a dalit and past minister of state, to Cabinet Rank
2. Minister of State:
1. Sanjoy Bhoi, an young and dynamic leader to be a Deputy minister, to be groomed for future, to build party from below. He may be elevated to Minster of State based on performance later.
2. Alternatively, select Mr. Pradeep Kumar Majhi from Nabrangpur(only MP from South Orissa.)
3. Srikanta Jena, an ex-cabinet minister, and the only Coastal MP from Orissa, to an important Cabinet Rank, so he can help build the party from below.
The other three MPs have their qualifications too. Mr. Hemanand Biswal is an ex-Chief Minister and Mr. Pradhan is an ex minister of Orissa state. But we feel they can be used in the organizational positions for now.
Best wishes,
Sandip K. Dasverma

List of Congress MPs from Orissa
Orissa 1 Bargarh Sanjay Bhoi Indian National Congress
Orissa 2 Sundargarh Hemanand Biswal Indian National Congress
Orissa 3 Sambalpur Amarnath Pradhan Indian National Congress
Orissa 4 Balasore Srikant Kumar Jena Indian National Congress
Orissa 5 Kalahandi Bhakta Charan Das Indian National Congress
Orissa 6 Nabarangpur Pradeep Kumar Majhi Indian National Congress

Do Terrorists have human rights? - Sandip K. Dasverma

Justice Pasayat's recent public statement that "Terrorists have no human rights" - makes me cringe for cover. Our generation heard "Indira is India and India is Indira" statement of an Indira Gandhi stooge, Late D. K. Barua. I am reminded of that statement of this in 1975/76. It was a time when "Human rights” were suspended, including “habeous corpus rights". The result we know, already. There is a saying in Oriya which can be translated as: “A mother whose son was bitten by snake, is afraid of ropes.” No wonder, I am scared.

Even in America of 21st century news about misuse of position and kickbacks to judges,: is being unearthed. So if we give such power to judges in India, there is enough to fear. Because the checks and balances in the system are poorer, to say the least. It is so inefficient and under manned, that Indian court will take 466 years to clear its backlog, chief justice of India said recently, in a damning report.
One can't forget the killing of citizens by Narendra Modi's cops, senior police officers, who are now in jail on murder charges. They first killed innocent people, and then killed more innocent people to eliminate witnesses to their crimes.

The context thus is obviously more serious than the individual based politics of the 1970s. This is now in international media. Since globalization is the order of the day, should not we look for best practices else where?

Interestingly USA has just endured and passed through the Bush era (2000 to 2008), when Justice Pasayat's theory has been thoroughly tested. They failed miserably and measurably. This in borne by the fact that President Bush had the lowest public approval rating ever, since such rating have been recorded. Just last week I heard again President Obama state that evidences are now available that in the last 8 years, the rule of law and human rights have been, thoroughly violated. And public safety is not inversely but directly proportional to rule of law and human rights.

Justice Pasayat is our contemporary from a nearby locality of City of Cuttack, in India. Though I don't know him personally, he must have had the same experience growing up as me. He had a comparatively privileged background. But he too must have known the issues of our time.

Here is a quote from Voltaire (who with Russo fathered the French revolution and modern liberal thoughts). He states: "I totally disagree with what you say but I am ready to die for your right to make that statement". That was freedom of speech at it's best. As society advanced Universal Human Rights came as a more recent development. It was accepted by UN in 1948, as a result of much blood, sweat & tears. It was implemented in USA starting with President Carter, 20 years later. Can there be any exceptions? NO. Why not? Because, then how does the little guy David (an individual) fight the Goliath (the state)? During lots of research on many liberation movements - it has come out to light that lack of human rights actually fuels terrorism. Because Government of the day can give the dissidents a bad name and kill them. And without the necessary constitutional human rights requirements/protection, no one will ever know or be aware of such misuse of power. Interestingly the charges of gross human rights violations are against the most corrupt national governments of the world, which are famous for their social backwardness too. For example Myanmar, Iran & Afghanistan. Do we want to follow them? Heck NO!

I can't believe a supreme court justice of India, past it's Golden Jubilee year, said that publicly, without any caveat. It is so insane and inane.

Below is a scenario of what could be an outcome of such a policy, if it is taken seriously and implemented. What will happen is of far reaching, consequence.

Let us take a real example. We recently had a case where a RTI activist went to Indian Supreme Court and asked for declaration and publication of the assets of the Supreme Court Justices. This followed the recommendation by Chief Justice of India(CJI) for Justice Soumitra Sen of Kolkata high court of impeachment & dismissal. The Registrar of Supreme court instead of following the law, refused to provide the info, under the pretext that - the info is not in his office but in Supreme Court Chief Justice's(CJI) office. Now, there is no such office actually, so the activist went to challenge this charade, in the office of Chief Information Commissioner(CIC) of India. CIC opined that there is no difference between the two offices and so asked CJI to submit the info. And rightly so in my opinion. However, the CJI forwarded the case to Delhi High Court, which falls under it's own jurisdiction and asked them to decide the case. The prominent Citizen of India have protested and appealed to CJI to yield. The case is in the Delhi High Court. Let us assume that the CJI and PM are in collusion. (which is luckily and actually not the case.) GOI could arrest the person who submitted the RTI and rough him up. And if he does not still relent and stop pursuing the case, can book him falsely for possessions of illegal arms or liquor etc. And/or for dangerous liaison with the extremist groups, and keep him in jail indefinitely. No proof – nothing required, because Human Rights for terrorists, have been suspended by Justice Pasayat. Just Government's statement that he is a dangerous terrorist (an element undermining the democratic set up), would be enough. Because the judiciary and Government are in a collusion, this will be possible. Because as Justice Pasayat has stated - this man now has no human rights. What will happen to his children, friends and family? They would now come to the conclusion that since law does not take it's own course in the country, to get justice, they have to take the law in their own hands. Improbable now but possible when the advise of our erudite supreme court judge is followed by a pliant or a colluding Government. We have seen this happen frequently, before the separation of executive and Judicial branches. And the potency is toxic.

That is why I think Justice Pasayat, has probably been misquoted. Otherwise, he is like you and I are, unfit for the highest judicial honor, of being a supreme court judge of India.

Notes:
1. Terrorists have no human rights: - Justice Pasayat: http://ibnlive.in.com/news/sc-judge-slams-human-rights-for-terrorists/83810-3.html
2. Need correct quote of Voltaire
3. US court house misuse of power for kick backs: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090211/ap_on_re_us/courthouse_kickbacks
4. Indian court will take 466 years to clear its backlog, chief justice says in damning report: http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/wire/sns-ap-as-india-delayed-justice,1,2555110.story
5. Universal Declaration of Human Rights: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Declaration_of_Human_Rights
6. Sadhvi Pragya Thakur: http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/nov/01malegaon.htm?zcc=rl
7. Jailed murderer Gujarat Deputy Inspector General of Police, D. G. Vanzar & Deputy Superintendent of Police, N. K. Amin http://www.roguepolice.com/amin.htm & http://www.hindu.com/2007/05/05/stories/2007050508801200.htm
8. “Indira is India & India is Indira” - Dev Kanta Barua, Indian National Congress President(1975-77): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dev_Kant_Baruah
9. Impeachment of Soumitra Sen of Kolkata High court:: http://ibnlive.in.com/news/law-min-pushes-for-impeachment-of-calcutta-hc-judge/73101-3.html
10. Prominent Citizens appeal to CJI: http://www.hindu.com/2009/02/15/stories/2009021555021000.htm

Creating a Vaccine Free Orissa/World - It's pitfalls and illogic

The world population did not cross 1 billion till 1840s. It did not cross 2nd billion till 1930s, 3rd billion till 1960s, 4th billion till 1974, 5th billion till 1988 and 6th billion till 1998. Today it is closing in on 7 billion. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_population)

The is result of undeniable contribution of science and technology and it's child, modern allopathic medicine. The advances of allopathic medicine in preventing premature deaths due various preventable diseases and epidemics, is visible and undeniable. Obviously nature's balance has been tilted in favor of human species, by advances in science and technology. It has resulted in large number of post octogenarian population & they are growing in leaps and bounds. No doubt there are bad effects of medicines and chemicals, which we don't fully understand yet. But to ask that we go back to old days forgoing modern medicines, is illogical. Are the proponents of this thought, asking us to go back to average life expectancy of 30 years? Such life expectancy prevailed before the vaccines came, drastically reducing child mortality. I hope not.

Many of us are past 60 years in age. In the middle of the last century people were considered to be of ripe old age, at that time. Very few lived longer. The population in India multiplied many-fold due three reasons in 1950s and 60s.

1. Prevention of epidemics: Cholera, Typhoid & Small pox to name a few.
2. Coming of age of antibiotics, curing most bacterial diseases.
3. Significant advances in modern surgery.

I am all for opinion and info exchange, as well as necessary debate. But scaring ignorant and illiterate people about modern medicines is both, immoral and abominable. So is charging them a hand and a foot, to treat them in a public hospitals.

Obviously science does not yet know lot of things and that is the challenge of today's science. What knowledge we have achieved so far, is only the beginning.
I remember reading "Brief History of Time" by Prof. Stephen Hawkins, where he quotes a Nobel winning Scientist of 1935. That scientist declared that Physics as we know it, has all been invented. That scientist obviously was proved wrong and it has advanced leaps and bounds, since then.

That men love to go back and live in the conditions & communities, they were born to, is well known. Interestingly, it will be and is being made possible, by the most modern of technologies, the Internet technology. There are two forces working here which both need to be nurtured:

1. Individualism, which results in individual's curiosity and will to work hard, to innovate thus to bring desirable changes & benefits to the community and to himself.
2. Collective organization of the society to make the results universally available for the whole of mankind. Governments provide incentives to such men to form corporations & to organize these collectives with profit motives, to make the goals achievable & possible.

The problem arises if there are no checks and balances. Then it goes haywire. Like a drug company recently raising the price of a drug by 60 times after introducing to the market to make quick cash, because they are in a monopoly situation.

I remember my father and our family priest telling me that potato and electric light were not allowed in Jagannath Temple at Puri. Electric light is now allowed in the Puri temple but don't know if potato is. Why? Because they did not know about potato/tomato previous to 18th century. Potato and Tomato were introduced to Europe in the 16 th century and thence to India, from the newly discovered Latin America. Earlier, they used to depend on roots called "Desi Alu", meaning, native potato. In fact for a long long time in Europe, Tomato was believed to be poisonous. Cherry tomato was used only for decoration. Then a German company "Bayer Inc.", found out that Tomato had high Vitamin C content, and propagated it's use.

Modern allopathy medicine is tested in the double blind methods by FDA, USA. There are some aberrations in this system. But junking science( vaccine) is irresponsible, considering that success of this system has resulted such major advances in human health and longevity, in last six decades.

My major complain against allopathic system is price manipulation by MNCs of life saving drugs, to earn super profits .

Let me depict a personal experience to illustrate how uninformed criticism is dished out. In the year 1997, I had a colonoscopy. Very soon after that club in Rock Island, Illinois, we used to frequent, invited a lady to give a talk on naturopathy. She made a statement that our intestine is like a drain which has not been cleaned for as long as our individual age. She won her point with everyone except me. I challenged her if she has seen her inside, her intestines large & small? She said NO. Then I asked her if she knew, what is colonoscopy? She answered in affirmative, though she said, she had never undergone it. She said, she knows what it does.
I told her that I have recently undergone and saw in a TV monitor what my inside looks like. After 50 plus years, it is in prime condition. That is because the mucous membranes are constantly being shed by the body. So it is more like a recently cleaned drain than a 50 year old unclean drain. Very spic and span.

She was very unhappy because her whole logic was based on that metaphor to explain naturopathy, which was demolished. But she was also giving out knowledge without being knowledgeable, thus needed to be challenged. And it did not pass critical thinking. When you get such info one has to be very rational, to check it out.

I am aware and am a critique of the aberrations of modern allopathic medicine, but the logic of Mr. Jagannath Chatterjee puts forward appears to me to be nothing more than a illogical and uncritical scare mongering.

We should develop ways to improve the vaccine to reduce the reactions, both qualitatively and quantitatively. We should also, in those rare cases where the unfortunate reactions happen, compensate them adequately. But to go back to the old days would be a disastrous surrender of many young lives. To go back to the old pre-vaccine days, is unthinkable. They were never better than today, if you go by the facts.

I am afraid this is not a debate but an illogical misinformation campaign, using failures of the natural system's bell curve, at it's tails.

Google to showcase Bengali classics

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Better connectivity - to Kandhamal & KBK districts

Dear Mr. Chief Minister and MPs of Orissa:

In light of the recent sad events in Kandhamal and earlier Maoist massacres in Malkangiri and Nayagarh, may I request you again, to go for the long term solutions to problems in Kandhamal and KBK districts? By this I refer to CONNECTIVITY, both physical (Road & Railways) and via Internet/Cell phone.

Imagine if you could get instant info via internet and CRP from BBSR reached Kandhamal in 3 hours via Khurda - Bolangir Railway? Or via Road in 2 hours via Ranchi - Vijaywada National Highway from Angul?

Proper connectivity to these places would create the foundation of a long term solution to the problems of deprivation and access.
May I suggest that the NREGA funds may be used in this regard, to create the permanent resources? When we met Sri Kalyan Jena, the first Oriya Chairman of Railway Board, he was in fact pleading for it.

In that regard, may we request you to please pursue the following:


(i) Push for the faster implementation of the Vijaywada - Ranchi highway that passes through these areas.


(ii) Push for widespread availability of broadband Internet connectivity in these districts. Today's, The Telegraph, states that GOI(Govt of India) has directed VSNL to install 8000 towers this year and 11000 next year for full rural connectivity of Broad Band and Cell phones to all villages with population of 1000 and above.
(News: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/19000_mobile_towers_to_connect_villages/articleshow/3468439.cms)

Would you kindly Sir, first make the concerned DMs aware and active, and then find time in your next visit to New Delhi to talk to the Union communication minister A. Raja and tell him that Orissa administration & you are ready & prepared for related action?



(iii) Push for the completion of the various rail corridors in these areas, in particular:


(a) Khurda- Nayagarh - Balangir


(b) Lanjigarh Rd - Junagarh - Nabarangpur - Jeypore - Malkangiri - Bhadrachalam Rd in Andhra Pradesh

(c) Lanjigarh Rd - Phulbani - Talcher


Thus connecting Kandhamala to Bhubaneswar via the Khurda-Balangir line and creating a shorter path from KBK to Bhubaneswar. Can you sir, not imagine, what will happen if Koraput to BBSR travel takes between 8 to 10 hours? I envision that the regionalism will disappear.
50 to 60 percent of Western and South Orissa people who have never visited Cuttack, Puri and Bhubaneswar, will be visiting them.
And the punishment posting of least efficient and delinquent officers to KBK, will also become, history of the past, because every one will be willing, if selected to GO.

Sincerely,
Sandip K. Dasverma

A Special Note to Esteemed MPs of Orissa: May I request all, our respected MPs, for once to go to the Railway minister, Lalu Jadav, with this one agenda & above demands. JUST ONCE, this year? You can come back to: a train stop here and a route extension there, again next year. For once, please please, make party 2nd and Orissa 1st - JUST ONCE.


PS: May I append, what a fellow NRO, Prof. Chitta Baral had written, few months back, to justify the Indian Railway's action in connectivity, to rehash your memory?


=================================================

A recent PTI news ( http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/holnus/004200808110342.htm ) says that "All the railway projects in Bihar stipulating an investment of Rs 52,000 crore, would be completed by 2011,+ Girish Bhatnagar, General Manager of East Central Railway (ECR) said."

We have been urging the chief minister and the MPs to make the case that all the Orissa projects should also be finished by the end of the 11th plan; but to no avail.

The irony is that to finish the scheduled Orissa projects, no extra money is needed. It is estimated that Indian Railway will make about 2,800 crore/year profit from Orissa which in 5 years will be 14,000 crores. (http://www.kbkrail.orissalinks.com/ )

That is more than enough for the completion of the following projects:

(i) Khurda Rd - Nayagarh - Balangir (1000 crores taking into account inflation)
(ii) Lanjigarh Rd - Junagarh - Nabrangpur - Jeypore - Malkangiri - Bhadrachalam Rd (1500 crores)
(iii) Raygada - Gopalpur (1000 crores)
(iv) Gunupur - Theruvali (400 crores)
(v) Talcher - Bimlagarh (1000 crores taking into account inflation)
(vi) Baripada/Buramara - Chakulia (400 crores)

The above adds up to only 5300 crores.

So if Bihar can aim and achieve the spending of 52,000 crores by 2011, why can not Orissa just ask that profit from Orissa be put in Orissa for the duration of the 11th plan, especially when we are referring to connectivity to the most backward areas of the country (not just the state).

With 5300 out of 14000 spent in the above, and with the following lines done via PPP costing very little to the Railways (say about 1700 crores total)

(vii) Haridaspur - Paradeep
(viii) Angul - Sukinda
(ix) Bhadrakh - Dhamara
(x) Rupsa - Kirtania

Orissa will have another 7000 crores and it can target lines such as:

(xi) Puri-Konark (under survey - Est. cost 300 crores)
(xii) Phulbani-Berhampur (Under survey - Est. Cost 1000 crores)
(xiii) Talcher/Hindol Road -Gopalpur/Berhampur (Under survey - Est. Cost 1000 crores)
(xiv) Bargarh-Nawapara Road (Under survey - Est. Cost 800 crores)
(xv) Lanjigarh Rd - Phulbani - talcher (Est. cost 1000 crores)
(xvi) Lanjigarh Rd - Gopalpur (Est. cost 1000 crores)
(xvii) Khurda - Naraj circular Railway (Est. cost 400 crores)
(xviii) Barang - Astaranga port - Konark (Est. cost 1000 crores)

On money for cross-voting & India !!!

Dear Friends:
The needed proof is visible & self-evident, except to the selfishly blind.

This need to change: lock, stock and barrel, if India is to be a respected nation. Because no one respects a nation whose public leaders are simultaneously in misappropriation business.

I remember Tehelka case. The then NDA Govt went after the whistle blower rather than the culprit.

In a recent case, a supreme court chief justice was caught allowing his sons, to run business real estate business from his official residence, while he was presiding over the case of unauthorized shops in residential area. His sons were direct beneficiary of his decision to insist on zonal segregation. When it was brought out in the open, the poor investigative journalists had to apologize under threat of "contempt of court" & jail, ordered by chamcha justices of Delhi High Court.

JMM bribary case was a straight forward case. The culprits were destined for the Jail, till Supreme Court performed Legal jugglery. Thus culprets escaped scot-free because the supreme court twisted the case unduly favoring the culprits, (which included the Prime Minister, Narshimha Rao, an otherwise decent man), which halted the "Rule of Law" on it's track.

India has never recovered from that misuse of law, yet. Though conviction of Manu Sharma in Jessica Lal case, was a case where "Rule of Law", finally prevailed, it was an exception. And it was between two families, who were high up in the social ladder.

This needs to change, period.

I am no admirer of BJP and they are no angels. But such happenings are bad for everyone of the ordinary, people. But NDA or UPA, they seem to be stuffed with CROOKS.

Such shameful acts need to change, if India is ever to claim to be a world class democracy, and earn it's due place in the comity of the Nations.
Best wishes,
Sandip

News - Orissa Govt allots old ORT bus stands to Reliance - News

Dear Friends:
A leader who is close to people will be overwhelmed by their influence
and approach - he will thus be unable to take such action.
Unfortunately it seems that our CM has no connections with the people. He has
connection with the super rich people of the India, like the Ambanis.

A pro-people Govt. will ask IDCO to build markets/shops like one built
in Cuttack Jail or any other successful model and lease them out.
Hundreds of unemployed youth will be benefited. A Govt not wanting to
go that far will auction off these land to the public, so it will get
the market price and mall developers will move in, to construct and
lease.
No there is no such thing. It is given to the richest of the land at
subsidized prices ,which are not made public.

Can we ask, why?

Who will ask?
The legitimate opposition, the Indian National Congress(INC), is out hunting for money and is silent.
They have to collect cash to keep their promises. 3 crores (2
crores outstanding) for abstaining or 25 crores for cross voting, we
hear. Their friends now say - Oh, well Indian democracy is in
developing stage, so such things happen.

We feel like yelling - REALLY?

But soon realize that the choice is between Twiddle Dum and Twiddle Dee. In
other words - WE HAVE NO CHOICE.

Does not it lead people taking law into their own hands?

Best wishes,
Sandip

Flouting civil laws - Sandip K. Dasverma

Re: Prashanta Varma's Blog
Civil Laws and public safety are made for each other and people ignore it at their peril. Level of education and understanding of the Law in the society being non-uniform the need to enforce the Law develops. Because non adherence of the Law results in injury to the others in the the society. For example if a kid does not wear the hamlet and gets injured seriously, the resources of the state and this family are spent to cure him.
Thus the need of Law enforcement. However in India this results in a double whammy. The Law enforcer is paid to enforce the law but he gets paid again for letting the law violator go scot free. He gets paid for doing nothing. Yes, he has to keep his boss happy by sharing the booty or some other way but he gives a damn to public safety which is his primary work area.
They say pictures are worth a thousand words, in this case probably a million. The newly appointed Police commissioner should first ensure that all shops have helmets available and then announce over TV that the laws will be enforced. If in future such pictures can be taken the concerned police officer should be fined 5 days salary for dereliction of duty - or similar. Parents of those who have had accident or who were injured should be part of this oversight committee, in my opinion.
Thanks to Prashant Verma babu for bring such a partinent topic to the table and highlighting it.
The new commissioner of Police of Cuttack and BBSR, should not take more than 30 days to solve it by going on education mode for 30 days and then enforcing law. A repeat in six months, for two to 3 years of he same process will make it permanent.

Why I am opposed to Balbir Punj's representing Orissa in Rajya Sabha - Sandip K. Dasverma

Why I am opposed to Balbir Punj's representing Orissa in Rajya Sabha, some friends asked? Their concern was that am I changing my broad liberal views and getting into the quagmire of regionalism, a la Raj Thakre and his MNS? Thus this note and appendix to my earlier blog on this issue.

In my view the main problem with this action by BJP(Bharatiya Janata Party) high command, is that it is violation of both the letter and the spirit of the law.
Like Prime Mininster, Mr. Man Mahon Singh does not live in Gouhati, Assam, Mr. Punj does not live in Orissa. He has falsely given an address in Orissa, which violates the letter of the law.

In addition, the spirit of the Representation of People's act is violated, when one who has never lived in Orissa or else where in the state, is allowed to represent it in Rajya Sabha. This violates it's very spirit of representing the people. How can one, who does not know his electorate represent them? Additionally, Orissa is backward because it has week representation at the national level, leading to neglect for last 60 years. How does a national party, correct such situation by taking away even such weak representation?

The reason is obvious if you sit down and think. Answer that comes to our mind is: We yet to be a country who believe in "Rule of Law"? No, actually far from it.

One glaring example film actress Mrs. Hema Malini mentions film star Dharmendra as her husband and father of her two daughters, in her filing to the election commission for Rajya Sabha election.
Mr. Dharmendra, however, has filed a nomination to the same election commission, for Lok Sabha, stating that he is married to some one else.

Hindu Code Bill, does not allow polygamy since 1955.

Hence either of them or both should not have been allowed to contest election. If the information came up after election, they should have been dismissed, after election on the ground of perjury, submitting false information.
Nothing as you would anticipate for gross lying(per jury) , has happened to them and they are nearing completion of their terms, soon. Most of the India, is either oblivious, including the National women's commission members who have time to raid local parks to dissuade love birds(Or is it only Orissa State Commission) but no time to raise or pursue such a visible and a gross violation of women's rights.
This Chalta Hai attitude has to go before we can move ahead as a nation.

Idea of a Phone bank: - Sandip K. Dasverma

"Please leave the "invitation making" to a phone banking group, led by a Vice Chairman of Communications. He phones 7 group members and they call 7 each. And each of those each call another 7. It has a tree like structure, where each of them make 7 calls. All(400) will be covered, in a span of 7 calls (1*7*7*7+1 +7+49 =400) in two evenings, and in urgent cases even one."
NOTES: I request the secretary/President to not do it yourselves. Use the help of recent batches, who are shy but savvy in IT. Request them to go to NITR database and find phone numbers and down load them. Or ask Gen Secretary to download and send the excel sheet to the leader. The leader(Vice Chairman communications) sorts it by Postal Area code and finds who are located where. Then finds 7 who are primary contacts (and volunteer for one year). He e-mails them the seven names they need to call, and another 7 names who each of those called, will call.
They report to you, every day to vice chair/Secretary, who they called and send a spread sheet giving results. (how many - Yes & how many - NO).

I wish each chapter should have Vice Chairman of Communications (essentially phone bank group leader) and a team of 7 volunteer team, who do it, regularly. They shall be divided geographically, so all calls are local.

This will help the freshers to lose the tongue tied habits, (being shy), to go away, soon. Talking to some one unknown over phone and persuading him over phone is a skill every Engineer must learn. The best part is: with less than 10 calls/ each person, one can execute the whole thing in less than a week.

Leader ----- to 7 sub leader (who each has a list of volunteers to call.).
Each of 7 gives 7 calls reaching 49 volunteer callers.
49 of them call 5 to 7 each in their locality reaching 245 to 343 after that it will automatically spread.
(Evite cards after an initial phone banking is a good way to get confirmation.)

Bureaucrats new Avtar as public representatives..- Sandip K. Dasverma

Todays Tathya is agog with the news of many retired IAS/IPS officers trying to get elected themselves as the MLAs and MPs of Orissa.
In our younger days the politicians kept Goons to protect them. And had favorite businessmen and agents who they nurtured.
A decade later these goons and the businessmen became the king makers, as the quality of politicians deteriorated. In the later times the king makers realized they could became the kings and soon started to become the kings. No sacrifices, no risks, no imagination about people land - just naked greed is what they possessed. But these people soon found that the skill these people had was insufficient to run the Govt, because they did not know and never learnt how to administer. Though they were good at cleaning up the coffers, they found they could not erase the foot prints. Soon as the Govts changed these rascals started getting caught. Scared they found out who among the bureaucrats around can be relied on and the booty shared. This took us to the next phase - when bureaucrats found they are running the Govt and are king makers. After a few years and couple of crore of private resource creation - the wheel is again turning. Now the baboos(bureaucrats) want their pound of flesh. It may be better, because for the 1st time they will have to take the responsibility of their misdeeds or credits for their good deeds.
I guess this is the bottom and it can't go worse, because they ruled us, already, albeit they did so without authority. Now they will rule taking both authority and responsibility for their actions, unlike the previous situation. In my opinion there should be a 2/3 years, hibernation period between the roles as an IAS or IPS and contesting for electoral office.

BJP's utter contempt for Orissa: by Sandip K. Dasverma

Bharatia Janata Party was born out of ashes of Jan Sangh, which Indira Gandhi had decimated to the ground in 1971 election. With the assistance and encouragement from Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan, they rose again and joined Janata Party before the epic 1977 elections. Hanging on to JP's court tails by accepting "Gandhian Socialism" they rode to national scene incognito and to power in 1977, under Janata Party banner. Then on the duel membership issue, they parted, when the loose coalition fell apart only in 18 months, disappointing millions of Indians, who pinned their hopes on Janata Party. The issue was the membership of Rastriya Swayangsevak Sangh (RSS) and Janata Party at the same time, which created a clique / party within a party. The other members of the party did not like, it. They clung to the old RSS membership and voted as a block within Janata Party, which was resented by other groups within the Janata Party.
Using socialists Raj Narayan, one time her nemesis, Mrs. Gandhi broke the Janata Party and came back to power, in the middle of 1980. In that election only BJP which was formed by the RSS cadre enblock and a few ex-socialists like George Fernandez and Sushma Swaraj, did comparatively well. However having moved away from communal politics, and congress having adapted soft communalism, they lost their shirts (2 members in Lok Sabha) in the 1984 election, fought in aftermath of Indira Gandhi assassination in 1984. Then they moved back to their root, of hate politics and did much better in 1989 and were part of V.P.Singh's coalition, ministry. This ministry fell apart when to counter Devi Lal's backward caste agenda, VP Singh, implemented Mandal Commission recommendations. This hurt VJP's upper caste base and Advani undertook the "Toyota Rath Jatra" or "Blood Jatra", across India, arousing communal sentiments and inciting a series of riots. The result was spectacular rise in BJPs fortune. They were back on their old: "Hindutwa" or "Expand hate" agenda. They had earlier created a lot of sister organizations like VHP, Bajrang Dal, Vanaasis Kalyan Kendra etc, to have a deniability of their hate crimes, they were later to commit. Encouraged by the election results, they embarked on Babri Masjid demolition, using mythology as history and faith as logic. This further divided the country and caused a ripe atmosphere for them to come to power. The post Indira Gandhi, soft communalism of congress party and it's predominant culture of corruption and nepotism, had turned people away from that party. Particularly the kowtowism of the party to Nehru-Gandhi faimily created an atmosphere - where people bought BJP's "We are different - slogan". BJP claimed they were green horn and people gave them benefit of doubt. Strong leaders don't kowtow (to the Nehru-Gandhi family). But weak leaders don't win elections. So in the congress party we see a lot of leaders, either standing in constituencies away from home, (Narshing Rao getting elected from Gunupur constituency in Orissa) or getting elected thru Rajya Sabha, eg. Pranab Mukherjee, who never own an election to Lok Sabha between 1966 to 2004. Mukherjee got elected for the 1st time to Lok Sabha only in 2004.
Well how did the BJP do or the "We are different" group do?
They elected Mr. Lodha from Orissa, who was dismissed from Parliament and left in disgrace, because he charged money for asking parliament questions. Now Mr. Punj. I ask how are BJP different?

It is a matter of great concern that the most important projects in Orissa like the Bolangir - Khurda Railway line can't be completed because we don't have a voice in New Delhi. No one listens to the affected Tribals and KBK area's demand for connectivity. Why? Because we don't have strong voices in the Indian Parliament. And now even that voice is being snuffed out by a party, claiming to be different?
Give me a break.
I want to tell Mr. Advani, we are not a colony. If you impose such monstrosities on Orissa, you better be ready for people of Orissa's wrath for you and your party. If you flout the spirit of representation of the people's Act by not selecting a person genuinely resident in Orissa, we are ready to throw BJP out, for such injustice and colonial attitude towards us.

MNS and Bhyas - a story of plotting to deprive Bhaiyas of Roti, Kapda aur Makan - Sandip K. Dasverma

MNS and it's dis-avawed parent, Shiv Sena are all parachoal fascist organizations. The issue is not if Bhaya's should move to Mumbai or not. The issue is to understand that a threatened Bhaiya can't raise his voice and demand "Roti, Kapda or Makan", i.e. a better standard of living and a better wage. And if it is happening to Bhaiya's today - it is going to happen to Bengalees, Oriyas, Assamese and 36 garhee and Jharkhandees tomorrow. It is creating a better bargaining position for the business tycoons of Mumbai at the cost of wage earners. This is same or similar to the wrath you sees in United States directed against Mexicans, Guatamalans and other latin or central Americans or Chinese.
Patriarch Bal Thakray, was an agent of S. K. Patil in 60s when there was a fight between him and V. K. Krishna Menon, both of whom central ministers. Menon, a radical socialist was winning election from Mumbai with aid of organized textile labor unions, repeatedly. And money bags that supported Patil (he was treasurer of Congress) felt threatened by the success of labor unions. To divide and rule, they brought in this issue of sons of soil and recruited Bal Thakray, a good speaker and small time journalist, as the union buster. The rest, as they say, is history.
Since then the mobilized goons remained the same except the targets changed, from time to time.
Late 50s - Labor Union activists(non-Maharastrians)
Early 60s - South Indians
Late 60s and early 70s- Gujratis
Late 70s to early 2000s - Muslims
2000s, since 2003 - Bhaiyas
In between it was interrupted by stints at Govt. of rabid Shiv Sena in collaboration with RSS and VJP, in 1990s immediately following Mumbai riots and Babri Masjid demolition. Later the followed infighting in the family, who inherits the crown or rather right to loots: Son who carries the direct linage or Nephew who has been competent organizer of the goon squads? Thus driven out of the Shiv Sena, MNS was created by Raj. Now MNS is trying to out show Shiv Sena, as to who is more vile in preaching linguistic regionalism. We have this force in Orissa also - remember NILA CHAKRA and Kalinga Sena, though may be in milder form, due the inclusive nature of Jagannath culture?

In my opinion, the perpetrators of hate crimes, should be in their proper place - inside the jail.
Reason they are out side is: "WE". Yes, because WE are complex. We complain when we are at the receiving end but become silent and acquiescing, when we are some how believe are on the winning side.

I invoke every one to take one look at the famous Rev. Niemoeller's realization, which appears in Amnesty International web site but also Wikipedia, to which is this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Martin_Niemoeller.jpg

Hate crimes are old fascist methods of intimidating minorities and to find an easy and quick target, to divert working people's frustration and anger due exploitation. And Shiv Sena and it's new Avtar MNS are essentially trying an old trick.
Raj is a fascist and MNS a fascist party and has a fascist agenda. He is no friend of the Maratha poor and Marathi slum dwellers, he is just finding him an alibi so his goons can loot and steal.
Raj Thakray's tactics and attack on Bhyas is: Old NAZI wine in new MNS bottle.

IT SHOULD BE CONDEMNED - LOCK, STOCK AND BARREL.

Tata and Swami Vivekananda by Sandip K. Dasverma

Puja invocation:
TATAs have a reputation of being good corporate citizen having created Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. I don't know any of you are aware that it was the result of confluence of two great minds - during a ship journey from Calcutta to Tokyo in 1892. Yes, one was obviously Jamsedji Tata.

But do you know who the other is?
Yes, it is the then young monk, Swami Vivekananda, on his way to Chicago's World Council of Church's interfaith meet, where he was to make history.
He asked Jamsedji, who was going to import matches from Japan to make them in India. Jamsedji's answer was we don't have chemists and engineers. The young monk suggested he can start an institute to train /teach them. Thus was the seed sown.
Many years later - when Jamsedji got stuck down due obstruction of the then bureaucracy- who resisted it asking for full money to be deposited so it can run from the corpus fund - essentially undermining it. On Jamsedji's SOS Swami Vivekananda deputed Sister Nivedita to lobby British Parliament to pass the bill that constituted Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
Thus came in to being the IISc - a product of meeting of two great sons of India - A progressive Hindu monk and a great captain of Indian Industry.
A century later, today India is on way back to the top of world due such great foresight of some of the sons of the soil - who were of different religion - different language but one in allegiance and inspiration, the land of India. Let us pledge on this happy occasion that henceforth all our actins will be in the interest of our brethren.

It reminds me of Swamiji"s immortal saying was: "Arise, Awake, stop not till the goal is reached."

The ball is really in the CM's court. - Sandip K. Dasverma

As I am slowly getting aware of the OHSDP, issue & problems which is not surprising to me. Year before last at Washington DC, OSA convention(July 2006), there were two cabinet ministers from Orissa. Shri Prafulla Ghadei and Shri Surya Narayan Patra and a MLA Mr. Kalpataru Das.
I asked a question, while they were all present together to Prafulla babu. He was lecturing us that theirs as the cleanest Govt ever in Orissa. I asked: "How and why do you think - the same old corrupt people will behave differently, today? After all, they are the same old wine, just in a new bottle?"
His answer was both tactful and tactical: He said the main difference is: "We have a clean leader in Naveen Pattnayak". I was not convinced and skeptical, but it rested there. Because I knew even incorruptible Late Naba Krushna Choudhury could not turn the Govt around from it's corrupt ways, in spite of his personal integrity. I just hoped, that this time around, it will be different.

In America, where the system has similar faults but once you are caught - you are gone. Not so in India. So the corrupt, even those who are caught, survive. This encourages them, all. Particularly, when stealing is so lucrative and so useful, for the family. Smart people learn fast it is the way to go - because it is beneficial, profitable and there is no penalty.

I think this makes the difference between India and America and Indian and American success. That is why I wanted ex-PM Narsingh Rao to go to jail. It was a open and shut case where bribe money was collected and deposited in a Bank A/c. Yet, it did not happen. Because in India law does not rule, people do. It is not "Rule of Law".

So it goes on. But due instant communication, it can't be kept hidden any more,.
After the two ministers went back merrily and the scandals started coming one after another.

* It started with the NREGA scam - alleged to be 555 crores out of total of 755 crore program. Still not resolved.
* Then came Nayagarh female foetuside scandal.
* Then followed the Kantabanji spurious drug scandal.
* And now the World bank scandal.(OHSDP sacandal)
* Of course Richa Mishra suicide scandal preceded, these.

There have been many small scandals but these listed above are the major scandals in about an year's time.
This is actually a chance for the CM to prove his innocence and competence by nailing the real culprits - else he can't any longer claim to be clean.
The ball really is in his court.

Competing states, ORISSA, 36Garh and Jharkhand have practically out done the Pandabas in Mahabharat: - Sandip K. Dasverma

The issue of water is of primary importance. In attempt to out do each other the competing states, ORISSA, 36Garh and Jharkhand have practically out done the Pandabas in Mahabharat. They have put everything on the Chess board, forgetting the industries should be good tax paying citizens.
The industries should pay for their inputs, like water, Coal, Iron Ore, Lime stone etc and should plan to dispose / treat their out put. This is well defined practice of the 1st world.
Unfortunately, GOO has promised everything to Integrated Steel Plants, like Judhisthira did in Mahabharata. While playing the dice, they have bet everything and very little is left to bet, to get the POSCOs. Just the give away of Iron Ore alone, will result in a yearly loss to Govt of Orissa to the tune of $2 billion per year or 9000 crores, at current exchange rates and prices charged as Royalty.
The Math is simple:
A 12 million tonne plant will need 20 million tons of Iron Ore.
International market price of lump Ore is approx $100/tonne and likely to go up another 30% this year.
20 million tonnes*$100/tonne = $2000 million=8000 crores ( exchange rate Rs 45/$)

Considering that the cost of raising is $10/Tonne the ISP(Integrated steel plant) gets a subsidy of $90/Tonne of which 50% should come to state as Royalty, for instate plants.

For plants in other states it should be 60% and for export it should be 80% of International Market price.

Similarly all other items, like Coal, Water and other ores should be paid for at Market prices.
News paper report, ( http://www.orissalinks.com/orissagrowth/?cat=162 ) states that Mittal are willing to pay the market price for all inputs. So why not POSCO and TATAs? Whose "Jwain"(son in law) are they?

The three state Governments should get together and do it, asap.
The best would be to keep the above 50%, 60% and 80% as the base prices and then go for an open bidding, so due competition the price of inputs in short supply will be highly remunerative.

I personally do not know Mr. Navin Patnaik but as a CM I believe that the buck should stop at his desk. He has no option to play ignorant.
Right now the MOU terms indicate that the interest of Orissa is compromised and needs solid path correction.

My take on World Bank Health project (OHSDP) scandal

http://infosources.blogspot.com/2008/01/corruption-plagues-world-bank-aided.html
Dear Sachi babu:
Wish you all the success in your OTV exposure to the Orissa and National audience on OHSDP, issue.
I am slowly getting aware of the problems which is not surprising to me.
Year before last at Washington DC, OSA convention(July 2006), there were two cabinet ministers from Orissa. Shree Prafulla Ghadei and Shree Surya Narayan Patra and a MLA Mr. Kalpataru Das.
I asked a question, while they were all present together to Prafulla babu. He was then claiming theirs as the cleanest Govt ever in Orissa. I asked: " How and why do you think - the same old corrupt people will behave differently, today? After all, they are the same old wine, just in a new bottle?"
His answer was both tactful and tactical: He said the main difference is: "We have a clean leader in Naveen Pattnayak". I was not convinced and skeptical, but it rested there. Because I knew even incorruptible Late Naba Krushna Choudhury could not turn the Govt around from it's corrupt ways, in spite of his personal integrity. I just hoped that this time around, it will be different.

Because in America, where the system has similar faults but once you are caught - you are gone. Not so in India. So the corrupt, even those who are caught survive and this encourages all of them. Particularly when stealing is so lucrative and so useful for the family. Smart people know it is the way to go - and there is no penalty.

I think this makes the difference between India and America. That is why I wanted ex-PM Narsingh Rao to go to jail. For a open and shut case where bribe money was collected and deposited in a Bank A/c. In other words it is not rule of law.

So it goes on. But can't be kept hidden any more, due instant communication.
The ministers went back merrily and then the scandals started coming one after another.

* It started with the NREGA scam - alleged to be 555 crores out of total of 755 crore program. Still not resolved.
* Then came Nayagarh female foetuside scandal.
* Then followed the Kantabanji spurious drug scandal.
* And now the World bank scandal.(OHSDP sacandal)
* Of course Richa Mishra suicide scandal preceded, these.

In between there have been many small but these are the major scandals in about an year's time.
This is actually a chance for the CM to prove his innocence and competence by nailing the real culprits - else he can't any longer claim to be clean.
The ball is in his court.
Best wishes,
Sandip