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Tag: Health

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  • Chocolates keep you healthy

    Chocolates keep you healthy

    It’s a well known fact that too much consumption of sugar is bad for health. But a little bit of sugar in moderation isn’t as terrible as one thought, say researchers.

    The sweet delicacies not only help in preventing ageing and ensuring proper blood flow but they also help in losing weight and making you happy.

    It’s that time of the year when chocolates are everywhere, so enjoy the delicacies without thinking twice as some of the research conducted by different brands suggests that chocolate can be good for you too, reports mirror.co.uk.

    Cocoa helps in blood flow

    The main ingredient in chocolate contains a wonderful antioxidant called flavanol, which is found in plants. Scientists at head quarters of chocolate brand Mars Bar teamed up with the University of L’Aquila in Italy to find that these antioxidants can increase blood flow to the brain. The higher the cocoa content in your chocolate, the better it is for you.

     

    Brain power

    Scientists discovered you could have the brain power you had 20 years ago, if you consume plenty of flavanol-rich cocoa. To make the most of its health benefits, stick to ‘healthy’ variants with at least 70 percent cocoa.

    Prevents ageing

    The antioxidants found in fruit and vegetables, which help fight free-radicals that lead to wrinkles, are just as potent in cocoa-rich chocolate. Some research suggests that chocolates could be even more beneficial than fruit, because of their higher antioxidant level.

  • Ebola vaccine trial halted for checks after joint pains

    Ebola vaccine trial halted for checks after joint pains

    GENEVA (TIP): A clinical trial of an Ebola vaccine developed by Merck and NewLink has been halted temporarily as a precautionary measure after four patients complained of joint pains, the University of Geneva Hospital said on December 11. “They are all fine and being monitored regularly by the medical team leading the study,” it said in a statement. The human safety trials, which began in Geneva on Nov. 10, are due to resume on Jan. 5 in up to 15 volunteers after checks to ensure that joint pain symptoms in hands and feet were “benign and temporary”, the hospital said.

    Fifty nine volunteers have been vaccinated so far. The Geneva researchers reported on Dec. 2 that the first people vaccinated with the experimental Ebola shot had seen no serious side effects so far, but a few experienced mild fever. On Thursday, it said that four patients had reported joint pains in the second week that had lasted a few days. This first phase of the trial had been due to continue for another week. “The Geneva team has decided to allow time to understand what is happening. This precaution of momentarily suspending the trial is habitual and classic in all clinical trials,” the researchers said.

    The team was in close contact with researchers in the United States, Germany, Canada and Gabon who are carrying out the same trial with the Merck and NewLink vaccine, it said. “These centres have not observed symptoms of inflammation in their volunteers to date,” it added. Marie-Paule Kieny, vaccine expert at the World Health Organisation (WHO), told a news briefing that the delay would allow time to see how widespread the problems are. But it was expected that after the delay the trial will be able to continue as originally planned, she said. “It’s not a setback, not at all,” Kieny said in Geneva.

  • MAKE YOUR ARRANGED MARRIAGE WORK

    MAKE YOUR ARRANGED MARRIAGE WORK

    Match, set, go… easier said than done. Here we list tips on ways to understand your partner better They say marriages are made in heaven. But then, there are also those made here on earth. Though an arranged marriage may feel like a prehistoric concept, such matches are still prevalent in society. Whether you marry someone you’ve fallen in love with, or someone your parents have chosen, as a couple you are bound to go through some ups and downs. It’s just that if it’s an arranged marriage, it may take you a tad longer to understand the thought process of your partner. If you are about to enter into an arranged marriage, here are some pointers you need to keep in mind:

    Pre-marital jitters

    Pre-marital jitters are very common among couples who opt for an arranged marriage. And if you’re experiencing them, ask yourself what is causing the anxiety. Among the most prominent reasons is the fear of sharing space and adjusting to a relatively unknown partner. Then, of course, is the fear of how to deal with a new family; how much you’d have to change your behaviour to adapt to their thoughts and habits. The best way to overcome this problem is by interacting frequently with your partner. It will put you at ease with your partner and also improve the intimacy between the two of you.

    Never complain

    An arranged marriage means more responsibilities and expectations. Both partners are under pressure to make the marriage work. Your partner may not share all your likes and dislikes and his/her family may not follow the same values as yours. You may be constantly corrected about the way things are done in this house. Relax! Adjustment is the name of the game. Have a frank talk with your partner, list out your anxieties and figure out a way to do things without antagonising your new family. In the initial days of your marriage, don’t take rude remarks or the seemingly harsh moves of your partner too seriously. Also, don’t adopt the tit for tat philosophy. Stay away from troublemakers and look for allies. Also, don’t complain or sound whiny to your partner. Remember, he/she is just as confused and nervous as you are.

    The magic of love

    Love is that essential ingredient that can help both of you overcome hurdles. If love at first sight hasn’t happened, don’t worry. It may take time, but you will grow to love each other. Even if you’re in love already, don’t expect your partner to immediately reciprocate the feelings. Give him/her time and work on how you can earn his/her love. Be patient and don’t get frustrated every time your partner says or does something wrong. Remember, marriage is like a whirlpool which takes one from a carefree world to a world filled with commitment and sacrifice; a world with love as its backbone

  • What men don’t tell you

    In a bid to redefine feminism, Hollywood actress Emma Watson touched upon gender issues that affect men and never get spoken of. Men, just like women, are bound by an image in the society, which portrays them as a provider and as one who shows no sign of weakness. Depression, sadness and tears are never seen as part of man’s makeup. And if he does exhibit any of those signs, he’s looked down upon by family and friends. Unlike women, who choose to speak out, men do the opposite — they ignore the signs, which result in psychosomatic and mental illnesses, addictions to substances and suicide in a increasing number of cases. Let’s take a look at some of the issues that men are afraid to talk about…

    Domestic violence on the rise

    In most cases, men have been seen as perpetrators of violence — physical or mental. However, Mumbai-based psychologist, Dr Harish Shetty, says, “I have seen several cases in my three decade long career of men being the affected party. Domestic violence has increased in families.Men are beaten by teenage children and by spouses. They are emotionally bashed at the workplace by their bosses. There are instances where friends of their girlfriend come and bash them when things go bad, but these things go unsaid. They suffer in silence.” This often leads to a vicious cycle of ailments, depression and psychosomatic illnesses like ulcers, heart related diseases and diabetes. “Men don’t seek help when they are depressed, irritable or angry. They either fall prey to addictions or commit suicide,” adds Dr Shetty, who says that more men commit suicide than women.

    Depression sets in

    A direct cause of the increasing pressures that men face is depression. City-based psychologist Dr Yusuf Matcheswala says that while the occurrence of depression is common in men, they do not realise that they are suffering from it. “Men being men, feel they will be perceived as weak if they seek help from a psychologist and don’t want to accept there is any weakness in them. Even though it’s okay for men to be metrosexual, do manicures, pedicures and wear strawberry lip balm, sadly, seeking help is not,” says Dr Matcheswala. Seeking help can sometimes cause complications. “Men become quieter and lose interest in life; they begin lying about their jobs. They tend to eat more, drink more alcohol and crib about office all the time. They avoid responsibilities and feel worthless and hopeless,” says Dr Shetty, adding that these problems can be avoided if there is enough awareness. “A simple trip to a friendly neighbourhood counsellor can do the trick,” he adds.

    Sexual exploitation

    An alarming number of young boys find themselves a victim of sexual exploitation. Dr Shetty says that unless those who are exploited seek help and attain closure, the effects of such trauma can be lasting. “I have seen cases where men, who were assaulted when they were young, lose interest in marriage. At times, boys who’ve been abused sexually, grow up with an unhealthy idea of sex.” Such experiences scar a person for life and prevent them from leading a productive life.

    Fatherhood blues

    The pressures of modern life can take a toll on men and increase if they have a family to support. In a fast-paced city like Mumbai, the struggle and stress starts with the morning commute and continues through the day, with work pressures mounting.With the onus of financial responsibility and upkeep of the family on him, a man has to keep it all together. In Mumbai, members of the Save Our Family Association meet every Sunday to talk about these issues and share their problems. Says a member, Jinesh Zaveri, “We see cases where fathers are denied rights to meet their children after a divorce.We listen to them, console them, and suggest the best possible course of action. These men are so affected that initially, they barely speak and are tight-lipped.

  • DRINK WARM WATER WITH LIME TO STAY HEALTHY

    DRINK WARM WATER WITH LIME TO STAY HEALTHY

    We have all heard it somewhere or the other that drinking warm water with the juice of one lemon, is beneficial for health. Here is delving into the reasons…

    Helps your digestive system

    Warm lime water on an empty stomach early in the morning helps stimulate the gastrointestinal tract. Digestion improves, heartburn is reduced and it helps in the process of elimination.

    Detoxifies liver

    Lemon juice has citric acid, which helps the enzymes to function better. It also stimulates the liver and aids in detoxification.

    Works on your pH level

    The acidity in our body can be harmful and lemon water can help reduce this. Though lemon has citric acid, the nutrients and minerals in it are alkaline in nature. Citric acid is not a strong acid and so, is easily removed from our bodies by elimination processes like perspiration. Lemon, however, stimulates the formation of calcium carbonate that neutralises other strong acids in the body. This is helpful, especially if your diet is heavy in proteins like meat and cheese. Experts say lemon can help change the pH balance of the blood and can also help in dealing with urinary tract infections.

    Strengthens your immune system

    All citrus foods are a storehouse of vitamin C. This vitamin is known to fight colds and is good for your immune system. Lemons also have potassium, which stimulates brain and nerve function and controls blood pressure.

    Clears and freshens your skin

    Experts say that vitamin C is great for youthful skin, because it helps in the production of collagen. Its antioxidants revive dull skin and keep it healthy. Warm lemon water removes toxins from the blood stream. Also, diluted lemon juice, when applied to blemishes, can actually help lighten them.

    Battles bad breath

    Lemon juice battles bad breath by keeping bacteria away.

    Aids in weight loss

    Lemon juice in the morning fights food craving. Also, it has been found earlier that people who maintain an alkaline diet tend to lose weight more quickly than others.

    Do not overdo the lemon bit

    Do not overdo the lemon. Just because one lemon helped you lose two kilos, squeezing four in your juice will not help you lose eight! Lemon has corrosive properties too and your tooth enamel may suffer.

    Note to remember:

    Adding a little honey to your lemon juice makes it more palatable and also battles phlegm and helps rid your body of mucous.

    Never:

    Use bottled lemon juice. Only the natural lemon is beneficial.

    Always:

    Rinse your mouth with plain water after you drink lemon juice.

  • Citrus juices rich in antioxidants

    Citrus juices rich in antioxidants

    Orange juice and juices from other citrus fruits could be much healthier than previously thought as researchers found that these are ten times richer in antioxidant content than what current methods estimate. High content of antioxidants in one’s diet help reduce harmful free radicals in our body. “The antioxidant activity is, on average, ten times higher than that which everyone thought up until now,” said Jose Angel Rufian Henares, professor at the University of Granada in Spain.

    The new technique to measure antioxidant content called ‘global antioxidant response’ (GAR) shows that this property has been undervalued in other food as well. The results suggest that tables on the antioxidant capacities of food products that dieticians and health authorities use must be revised. The method includes assessments of various physical and chemical parameters, such as colour, fluorescence and the relationship between the concentrations analysed and compounds indicators such as furfural. Upon applying the technique to commercial and natural orange, mandarin, lemon and grapefruit juices, it has been proved that their values greatly increase. With the help of this method, scientists have also created a mathematical model in order to classify juices according to their natural and storage conditions, which ensures that the correct raw materials and sterilisation and pasteurisation processes are used.

  • E-CIGARETTES LESS ADDICTIVE THAN TOBACCO CIGARETTES

    E-CIGARETTES LESS ADDICTIVE THAN TOBACCO CIGARETTES

    E-cigarettes are less addictive than tobacco cigarettes, finds a research, adding weight to the argument that vaping could help quit smoking. “We found that e-cigarettes appear to be less addictive than tobacco cigarettes in a large sample of long-term users,” said Jonathan Foulds, professor of public health sciences and psychiatry at Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine. The popularity of e-cigarettes (e-cigs), which typically deliver nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin and flavourings through inhaled vapour, has increased in the past five years.

    While the long-term effects on health and nicotine dependence are unknown, Foulds pointed out, “We might actually need e-cigarettes that are better at delivering nicotine because that is what is more likely to help people quit.” While carrying out the study, the researchers developed an online survey, including questions designed to assess previous dependence on cigarettes and almost identical questions to assess current dependence on e-cigs. More than 3,500 current users of e-cigs who were former tobacco cigarette smokers participated in the survey. The researchers found that people with all the characteristics of a more dependent e-cig user still had a lower e-cig dependence score than their tobacco cigarette dependence score. “We think this is because they are getting less nicotine from the e-cigs than they were getting from tobacco cigarettes,” Foulds explained. “Any common sense analysis says that e-cigs are much less toxic. And our paper shows that they appear to be much less addictive, as well,” he added.

  • WHY RICE IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH

    WHY RICE IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH

    Researchers have shown that consumers can improve their diets simply by enjoying white or brown rice as part of their daily meals. In a study, lead author Theresa Nicklas, DrPH, of Baylor College of Medicine, analyzed the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey datasets from 2005-2010 and evaluated the association of rice consumption with overall diet quality and key nutrient intakes in a nationally representative sample of 14,386 U.S. adults.1 Nicklas said their results show that adults who eat rice had diets more consistent with what is recommended in the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, and they showed higher amounts of potassium, magnesium, iron, folate and fiber while eating less saturated fat and added sugars.

    She said that eating rice is also associated with eating more servings of fruit, vegetables, meat and beans. In addition to the positive results in crosssectional studies linking rice consumption with healthier diets, a human clinical trial found that having white or brown rice at a meal increased satiety and feelings of fullness more than a calorically equivalent glucose solution control.4 Considering the cross-sectional and clinical findings, both enriched white rice and whole grain brown rice should be recommended as part of a healthy diet.

  • Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty

    Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty

    I.S. Saluja

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 68th Independence Day of India on 15th August, 2014. It has been almost 4 months since he spoke of his vision of India in his first address to the nation as Prime Minister. In his long speech, inter alia, he reminded the people of India that “Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty”.

    I must agree with him as would the whole world. A people need to be vigilant and constantly evaluate their leaders. Hence, we are giving below the full text of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation and would like our readers to evaluate India’s Prime Minister. Please send in your comments to editor@theindianpanorama.news or to salujaindra@gmail.com. We will be happy to publish your valuable evaluation and comments.

    Following is the English rendering of the Prime Minister’s address on the occasion. My dear countrymen,

    Today, all Indians in the country and also abroad are celebrating the festival of independence. On this day of sacred festival of independence, the prime servant of India extends greetings to all dear countrymen. I am present amidst you not as the Prime Minister, but as the Prime Servant. The freedom struggle was fought for so many years, so many generations laid down their lives, innumerable people sacrificed their lives and youth, spent their entire lives behind bars.

    Today, I pay my respect, greetings and homage to all those who laid their lives for the country`s independence. I also pay my respects to the crores of citizens of this country on the pious occasion of India`s independence, and recall all those martyrs who had laid down their lives in India`s struggle for freedom. The day of independence is a festival when we take a solemn pledge of working for the welfare of mother India, and also for the welfare of the poor, oppressed, dalits, the exploited & the backward people of our country.

    What he stressed on during the speech My dear countrymen, a national festival is an occasion to refine and rebuild the national character. This National festival inspires us to resolve ourselves to lead a life where our character gets refined further, to dedicate ourselves to the nation and our every activity is linked to the interest of the nation and only then this festival of freedom can be a festival of inspiration to take India to newer heights. My dear countrymen, this nation has neither been built by political leaders nor by rulers nor by governments. This nation has been built by our farmers, our workers, our mothers and sisters, our youth.

    The country has reached here today because of generation to generation rigours undertaken by our sages, our saints, our maestros, our teachers, our scientists and social workers. These great people and these great generations, who had worked for the country throughout their lives, deserve our deepest respect. This is the beauty of India’s Constitution, this is its capability which has made it possible that today a boy from small town, a poor family has got the opportunity to pay homage to the tri-colour of India at the ramparts of Lal Quila(Red Fort). This is the strength of India’s democracy. This is an invaluable legacy which we have inherited from our architects of the constitution.

    I pay my respects to those architects of the constitution of India today. Brothers and sisters, today if we have reached here after independence, it is because of the contribution of all the PrimeMinisters, all the governments and even the governments of all the States. I want to express my feelings of respect and gratitude to all those previous governments and ex-Prime Ministers who have endeavoured to take our present day India to such heights and who have added to the country’s glory. This country has been built on such foundation of ancient cultural heritage, where we were told of only onemantra during Vedic period, which is indicative of our work culture, which we have learnt, we have memorized – “Sangachchhdhvam Samvadadhvam sam wo manansi jaanataam.” We walk together, we move together, we think together, we resolve together and together we take this country forward. Having imbibed this basic mantra, 125 crores of countrymen have taken the nation forward.

    Yesterday only the first Parliamentary Session of the new Government had concluded. Today, I can proudly say that the Session of Parliament reflects our thinking and it is a reflection of our intentions. We are not for moving forward on the basis of majority, we are not interested to move forward by virtue of majority. We want to move ahead on the basis of strong consensus. “Sangachhadhwam” and, therefore, the nation has witnessed the entire Session of Parliament. Having taken all the Parties and Opposition along while working shoulder to shoulder, we achieved an unprecedented success and the credit for this does not go to the Prime Minister alone, the credit does not go to the people sitting in the Government, the credit for this goes to the Opposition also, the credit goes to all the leaders of Opposition too and also all the Members from Opposition.

    From the ramparts of Red Fort, quite proudly I salute all the Members of Parliament, I also salute all the Political Parties and by virtue of their strong support, we could take some important decisions intended to take the nation forward and yesterday the Session of Parliament had concluded. Brothers and sisters, I am an outsider for Delhi, I am not a native of Delhi. I have no idea about the administration and working of this place. I have been quite isolated from the elite class of this place but during the last two months while being an outsider, I had an insider view and I was astonished.

    It is not a political platform, rather it is a platform of a national policy and, therefore, my views should not be evaluated from a political perspective. I have already said, I salute all the ex-Prime Ministers and earlier governments who have brought the country thus far. But I am going to say something else and it may not be seen from political point of view. When I came to Delhi and noticed an insider view, I felt what it was and I was surprised to see it. It seemed as if dozens of separate governments are running at the same time in one main government.

    It appeared that everyone has its own fiefdom. I could observe disunity and conflict among them. One department is taking on the other department and taking on to the extent that two departments of the same government are fighting against each other by approaching Supreme Court.This disunity, this conflict among people of the same country! How come we can take the country forward? And that is why I have started making efforts for razing those walls; I have started making efforts at making the Government, not an assembled entity, but an organic unity, an organic entity, a harmonious whole- with one aim, one mind, one direction, one energy. Let`s resolve to steer the country to one destination. We have it in us to move in that direction. A few days back…Nowadays newspapers are full of news that Modiji`s Government has come, officers are reaching office on time, offices open in time, and people get there in time. I observed that India`s National newspapers, TV media were carrying these news items prominently.

    As the Head of the Government I could have derived pleasure in the fact that everything started going on time, cleanliness got the attention, but I was not taking pleasure, I was feeling pained. That thing, I want to tell today in public. And why, because if government officers arrive office in time, does that make a news? And if that makes news, it shows how low we have fallen. It becomes a proof of that, and that`s how, brothers and sisters, the governments have run? Today in the face of global competition, when we have to realize the dreams of millions of Indians, the country cannot run on the lines of ” it happens”, ” it goes”. In order to fulfil the aspirations of masses, we have to sharpen the tool called the Government machinery, we have to make it keen, more dynamic, and it is in this direction that we are working.

    My countrymen, it`s not long since I have come from outside Delhi, but I give you an assurance that the people in the Government are very capable – from the peon to the Cabinet Secretary, everybody is capable, everybody has a power, they have experience. I want to awaken that power, I want to unite that power and want to accelerate the pace of the welfare of nation through that power and I shall definitely do it. I want to assure the countrymen that we will achieve that, we will definitely do that. I could not say this on 16th May, but today after my experience of twotwo and half months, keeping the tricolor as witness, I am saying on 15th of August that it is possible, it will be achieved.

    Brothers and sisters, time has come to give a serious thought to the fact that whether we have a duty to create India of the dreams of those great people who gave us freedom, whether we have a national character? Brothers and sisters, can someone please tell me as to whether he or she has ever introspected in the evening after a full day`s work as to whether his or her acts have helped the poor of the country or not, whether his or her actions have resulted in safeguarding the interest of the country or not, whether the actions have been directed in country`s welfare or not? Whether it should not be the motto of one and a quarter billion countrymen that every step in life should be in the country`s interests? Unfortunately, we have an environment today wherein if you approach anyone with some work, he begins by saying “what does it mean for me?” He begins by saying “what does it involve for me?” and when he come to know that it does not entail any benefit for him, immediately he says “why should I bother?” we have to rise above the feelings of “what does it mean for me” and “why should I bother”. Everything is not for self interest only.

    There are certain things which are meant for the country and we have to refine this national character. We have to rise above the feelings of “why should I bother” and “what does it mean for me” and instead we have to think that “I am for nation`s interest and in this field, I am going to lead”. We have to inculcate this sentiment. Brothers and sisters, when we hear about the incidents of rape, we hang our heads in shame. People come out with different arguments, someone indulges in psycho analysis, but brothers and sisters, today from this platform, I want to ask those parents, I want to ask every parent that you have a daughter of 10 or 12 years age, you are always on the alert, every now and then you keep on asking where are you going, when would you come back, inform immediately after you reach.

    Parents ask their daughters hundreds of questions, but have any parents ever dared to ask their son as to where he is going, why he is going out, who his friends are. After all, a rapist is also somebody`s son. He also has parents. As parents, have we ever asked our son as to what he is doing and where he is going. If every parent decides to impose as many restrictions on the sons as have been imposed on our daughters, try to do this with your sons, try to ask such questions of them. \My dear brothers and sisters, the law will take its own course, strict action will be taken, but as a member of the society, as parents, we also have some responsibilities. If somebody tells me that those who have taken guns on their shoulders and kill innocent people are Maoists, are terrorists, but they are also somebody`s children.

    I would like to ask of such parents if they had ever asked their children as to why they were taking a wrong path. Every parent must take this responsibility, he must know that his misguided son is bent on killing innocent people. He is not able to serve himself nor his family nor the country. I want to say to those youngsters who have chosen the path of violence that whatever they are and wherever they are, it is all because of mother India only that they have got it. Whoever you are it is all because of your parents. I want to ask you to think how green, how beautiful and how beneficial this earth can become if you shoulder the plough instead of the gun which spills blood on this land.

    How long shall we have bloodshed on this land, how long shall we take the lives of the innocent people and what have we got after all this? The path of violence has not yielded anything to us. Brothers and sisters, I had gone to Nepal recently. There I said something publicly to draw the attention of the whole world. There was a time when the Emperor Ashoka who had chosen the path of wars, got converted to the path of Buddha at the sight of violence. There was a time in Nepal when their youngsters had opted for the path of violence but today I witness that the same youngsters are waiting for their constitution. The same people associated with them are framing the constitution.

    And I further said that if Nepal could present the best example of moving from the weapons to the books then it could provide inspiration to the youngsters in the world to abandon the path of violence. Brothers and sisters, If Nepal, land of Budha, can give message to the world then why can`t India too do the same? So it`s the call of the hour that we renounce the path of violence and take the path of brotherhood. Brothers and sisters, for one reason or the other, we have had communal tensions for ages. This led to the division of the country. Even after Independence, we have had to face the poison of casteism and communalism. How long these evils will continue? Whom does it benefit? We have had enough of fights, many have been killed. Friends, look behind and you will find that nobody has benefited from it.

    Except casting a slur on Mother India, we have done nothing. Therefore, I appeal to all those people that whether it is the poison of casteism, communalism, regionalism, discrimination on social and economic basis, all these are obstacles in our way forward. Let`s resolve for once in our hearts, let`s put a moratorium on all such activities for ten years, we shall march ahead to a society which will be free from all such tensions. And you will see that how much strength we get from peace, unity, goodwill and brotherhood. Let`s experiment it for once. My dear countrymen, believe in my words, I do assure you. Shun all the sins committed so far, give up that way, follow the way of goodwill and brotherhood, and let`s resolve to take the country forward.

    I believe we can do that. With advancement of science, brothers and sisters, we have a rising feeling of modernity in our mind, but what do we do? Have we ever thought what the sex ratio in the country is like? 940 girls are born against per thousand boys. Who is causing this imbalance in the society? Certainly not God. I request the doctors not to kill the girl growing in the womb of a mother just to line their own pockets. I advise mothers and sisters not to sacrifice daughters in the hope of son. Sometimes mother-father feel tempted to have son in the hope of supporting them in old age.

    I am a person who has worked in public life. I have come across families with five sons, each having bungalows, access to fleet of cars, but parents are forced to live in old-age homes, Vriddhashrams. I have seen such families. I have also seen families with only daughter as progeny, that daughter sacrifices her dreams, doesn`t get married, and spends entire life in taking care of old parents. This disparity points to female foeticide and the polluted and tainted mind the 21st century has.

    We will have to liberate from it, and that is message to us of this Freedom festival. Recently Commonwealth Games were organized. Indian sportspersons brought glory to the country. Nearly 64 of our sportspersons won. Our sportspersons brought 64 medals. But of them 29 are girls. Let`s feel proud and clap for them. Girls also contribute to India`s fame and glory. Let`s recognise it. Let`s take them along, shoulder to shoulder. This way we can get over the evils that have crept in social life. Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have to proceed in that direction as a social and national character.

    Brothers and Sisters, Development is the only way forward for the country. Good governance is the only way. There are only these two tracks to take the country forward – good governance and development, we can move forward only by taking them with us. We wish to move forward with the intent of taking them with us. When I talk of good governance, you tell me, when I ask a person in private job, he tells that he does the job; when you ask the same from a person in government job, he says that I do the service. Both earn, but for one it is job while for the other it is service. I ask a question from all brothers and sisters in government service, whether the word “Service” has not lost its strength, its identity? Persons in government service are not doing “job”, they are doing “service”. We have to revive this feeling, we have to take this feeling forward as a national character, we have to move forward in this direction.

    Brothers and Sisters, whether the citizens of the country should take steps for the welfare of the nation or not? You imagine, ifthis 125 crores of countrymen move one step forward, then the country moves 125 crore steps forward. The meaning of democracy is not just limited to electing a government, but its meaning is that 125 crore of citizens work together joining shoulder with the government to fulfill hopes and aspirations of the country, this is the meaning of democracy. We have to create partnership with the people. We have to proceed under Public-Private Partnership. We have to proceed along with the participation of the people. But, please tell me why our farmers commit suicide? A farmer takes loan from the moneylender, but fails to repay his loans. He takes loan for the wedding of his daughter, but fails to repay.

    He will have to suffer hardships during his whole life. He chooses to commit suicide. Who will save the poor families of such farmers? Brothers and sisters, I have come here with a pledge to launch a scheme on this festival of Freedom. It will be called`Pradhanmantri Jan-Dhan Yojana`. I wish to connect the poorest citizens of the country with the facility of bank accounts through this yojana. There are millions of families who have mobile phones but no bank accounts. We have to change this scenario. Economic resources of the country should be utilized for the well-being of the poor.

    The change will commence from this point. This yojana will open the window. Therefore, an account holder under `Pradhanmantri Jan-Dhan Yojana` will be given a debit card. An insurance of One Lakh Rupees will be guaranteed with that debit card for each poor family, so that such families are covered with the insurance of One Lakh Rupees in case of any crisis in their lives. My brothers and sisters, it is a country of young people. The 65 percent population of the country happens to be under the age of 35 years. Our country has the largest number of youths in the world. Have we ever thought of deriving an advantage out of it? Today, the world needs a skilled workforce. Today, India also needs a skilled workforce. At times, we look for a good driver but he is not available, we look for a plumber, but he is not available.

    If we need a good cook, he is not available. We have young people, they are unemployed but the kind of young people we seek for are not available. If we have to promote the development of our country then our mission has to be `skill development` and `skilled India`. Millions and Millions of Indian youth should go for acquisition of skills and there should be a network across the country for this and not the archaic systems. They should acquire the skills which could contribute towards making India a modern country. Whenever they go to any country in the world, their skills must be appreciated and we want to go for a two pronged development.

    I also want to create a pool of young people who are able to create jobs and the ones who are not capable of creating jobs and do not have the opportunities, they must be in a position to face their counterparts in any corner of the world while keeping their heads high by virtue of their hard work and their dexterity of hands and win the hearts of people around the world through their skills. We want to go for the capacity building of such young people. My brothers and sisters, having taken a resolve to enhance the skill development at a highly rapid pace, I want to accomplish this.

    Brothers and sisters, the world has undergone a change. My dear countrymen, the world has changed. Now India can not decide its future by remaining isolated and sitting alone in a corner. The economics of the world have changed and, therefore, we will have to act accordingly. Government have taken many decisions recently, made some announcements in the budget and I call upon the world and call upon the Indians spread world over that if we have to provide more and more employment to the youth, we will have to promote manufacturing sector. If we have to develop a balance between imports and exports, we will have to strengthen manufacturing sector. If we have to put in use the education, the capability of the youth, we will have to go for manufacturing sector and for this Hindustan also will have to lend its full strength, but we also invite world powers.

    Therefore I want to appeal all the people world over, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, “Come, make in India”, “Come, manufacture in India”. Sell in any country of the world but manufacture here. We have got skill, talent, discipline, and determination to do something. We want to give the world an favourable opportunity that come here, “Come, Make in India” and we will say to the world, from electrical to electronics, “Come, Make in India”, from automobiles to agro value addition “Come, Make in India”, paper or plastic, “Come, Make in India”, satellite or submarine “Come, Make in India”. Our country is powerful. Come, I am giving you an invitation.

    Brothers and sisters, I want to call upon the youth of the country, particularly the small people engaged in the industrial sector. I want to call upon the youth working in the field of technical education in the country. As I say to the world “Come, Make in India”, I say to the youth of the country – it should be our dream that this message reaches every corner of the world, “Made in India”. This should be our dream. Whether, to serve the country, is it necessary for the youth of the country to be hanged like Bhagat Singh? Brothers and sisters, Lal Bahadur Shastri had given the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”.

    A soldier sacrifices himself at the border and protects Mother India. Similarly, a farmer serves Mother India by filling the godowns with grains. This is also nation`s service. Filling the granary is the biggest nation`s service that a farmer provides. That is why Lal Bahadur Shashtri had given the slogan of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”. Brothers and Sisters, I would like to pose a question to my youngsters as to why despite them, we are forced to import even the smallest of things? My country`s youth can resolve it, they should conduct research, try to find out as to what type of items are imported by India and then each one should resolve that, through may be micro or small industries only, he would manufacture atleast one such item so that we need not import the same in future. We should even advance to a situation wherein we are able to export such items.

    If each one of our millions of youngsters resolves to manufacture atleast one such item, India can become a net exporter of goods. I, therefore, urge upon the youth, in particular our small entrepreneurs that they would never compromise, atleast on two counts. First, zero defect and, second again zero effect. We should manufacture goods in such a way that they carry zero defect, that our exported goods are never returned to us. We should manufacture goods with zero effect that they should not have a negative impact on the environment. If we march ahead with the dream of zero defect in the manufacturing sector then, my brothers and sisters, I am confident that we would be able to achieve our goals.

    Brothers and sisters, the youth of India has completely transformed the identity of India in the world. Earlier, in what manner did the world know our country? Till only 25-30 years back, if not more, there were many people in the world who thought that India was a country of snake charmers, it was a country which practiced in black magic. The real identity of India had not reached the world, but my dear brothers and sisters, our youngsters, 20-22-23 years old youngsters have mesmerized the whole world with their skills in computers. Our young I.T. professionals have given a new path of making a new identity of India. If our country has this strength, can we think something about the country? Our dream is, therefore, of “Digital India”. When I talk of “Digital India”, I don`t speak of the elite, it is for the poor people. You can imagine what a quality education the children in villages will get, if all the villages of India are connected with Broadband Connectivity and if we are able to give long distance education to the schools in every remote corner of the villages.

    If we create a network oftelemedicine in the places where there is a shortage of doctors, we can have a clear guideline of the way in which health facilities have to be provided to the poor people living in those areas. The citizens of India have mobile phones in their hands, they have mobile connectivity, but can we walk in the direction of mobile governance? We have to move in a direction where every poor person is able to operate his bank account from his mobile, is able to demand various things from the government, can submit applications, can conduct all his business, while on the move, through mobile governance and if this has to be done, we have to move towards `digital India` and if we have to move towards `digital India` then we have a dream. Today we are importing electronic goods on a large scale. Friends, you will be surprised that we are bringing in these televisions, mobile phones, ipads and all these electronic goods.

    It is a necessity to import petroleum products, oil, diesel and petrol. Second to this is the import of our electronic goods. If we move ahead with the dream of `digital India` to manufacture electronic goods and become self reliant at least there, how big can be the benefit for the treasury! Therefore, e-governance is what we need to take this idea of `digital India` forward. E-governance is easy governance, effective governance and also economic governance. Egovernance paves the way for good governance. There was a time when we used to say that the railways provided connectivity to the country.

    That was it. I say that today it is IT that has the potential to connect each and every citizen of the country and that is why we want to realise the mantra of unity with the help of `digital India`. Brothers and sisters, if we move ahead with all this then I believe that a `digital India` will have the potential to stand with the world on equal footing. Our youth have that capability, it is an opportunity for them. Brothers and sisters, we want to promote tourism. Tourism provides employment to the poorest of the poor. Gram seller earns something, auto-rickshaw driver earns something, pakoda seller earns something and tea seller also earns something. When there is talk of tea seller, I feel a sense of belongingness.

    Tourism provide employment to the poorest of the poor. But there is a big obstacle in promoting tourism and in our national character and that is – the filthiness all around us. Whether after independence, after so many years of independence, when we stand at the threshold of one and half decade of 21stcentury, we still want to live in filthiness? The first work I started here after formation of Government is of cleanliness. People wondered whether it is a work of a Prime Minister? People may feel that it is a trivial work for a Prime Minister but for me this a big work. Cleanliness is very big work.

    Whether our country can not be clean? If one hundred and twenty five crore countrymen decide that they will never spread filthiness, which power in the world has ability to spread filthiness in our cities and villages? Can`t we resolve this much? Brothers and sisters it will be 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in 2019. How do we celebrate 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi? Mahatma Gandhi, who gave us freedom, who brought so much honour to such a big country in the world, what do we give to Mahatma Gandhi? Brothers and Sisters, Mahatma Gandhi had cleanliness and sanitation closest to his heart.

    Whether we resolve not to leave a speck of dirt in our village, city, street, area, school, temple, hospital, and what have you, by 2019 when we celebrate 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi? This happens not just with the Government, but with public participation. That`s why we have to do it together. Brother and Sisters, we are living in 21st century. Has it ever pained us that our mothers and sisters have to defecate in open? Whether dignity of women is not our collective responsibility? The poor womenfolk of the village wait for the night; until darkness descends, they can`t go out to defecate.What bodily torture they must be feeling, how many diseases that act might engender.

    Can`t we just make arrangements for toilets for the dignity of our mothers and sisters? Brothers and Sisters, somebody might feel that a big festival like 15th August is an occasion to talk big. Brothers and Sisters, talking big has its importance,making announcements too has importance, but sometimes announcements raise hopes and when the hopes are not fulfilled, the society sinks into a state of despondency. That`s why are in favour of telling those things, which we can fulfil just within our sight. Brothers and sisters, you must be getting shocked to hear the Prime Minister speaking of cleanliness and the need to build toilets from the ramparts of the Red Fort. Brothers and sisters, I do not know how my speech is going to be criticised and how will people take it. But this is my heartfelt conviction.

    I come from a poor family, I have seen poverty. The poor need respect and it begins with cleanliness. I, therefore, have to launch a `clean India` campaign from 2nd October this year and carry it forward in 4 years. I want to make a beginning today itself and that is – all schools in the country should have toilets with separate toilets for girls. Only then our daughters will not be compelled to leave schools midway. Our parliamentarians utilizing MPLAD fund are there. I appeal to them to spend it for constructing toilets in schools for a year. The government should utilise its budget on providing toilets.

    I call upon the corporate sector also to give priority to the provision of toilets in schools with your expenditure under Corporate Social Responsibility. This target should be finished within one year with the help of state governments and on the next 15th August, we should be in a firm position to announce that there is no school in India without separate toilets for boys and girls. Brothers and sisters, if we proceed with the dreams, we are in a position to realise them. Today, I wish to tell one more specific thing. It has its own importance to discuss the matters and express the views of nation`s interest. However, our Members of Parliament do not get opportunity though they are willing to do something.

    They can express themselves, write to the government, agitate, give memoranda. Still they do not get opportunity to do something on their own. Today I have come to you with a new idea. We are running so many schemes in the name of the Prime Minister in our country, there are numerous schemes in the name of various leaders. However, today I am going to announce a scheme on behalf of the Member of Parliament- `Sansad Aadarsh Gram Yojana`. We shall fix some parameters. I urge upon the Members of Parliament to select any one of the villages having population of three to five thousand in your constituency. The parameters will be according to the time, space and situation of that locality.

    It will include the conditions of health, cleanliness, atmosphere, greenery, cordiality etc. On the basis of those parameters, each of our MPs should make one village of his or her constituency a Model Village by 2016. Can`t we do at least this? Shouldn`t we do this? If we have to build a nation, we should start from the village. Make a Model Village. The reason of fixing this target for 2016 is that it is a new scheme. It takes time to formulate a scheme and then to implement it. After 2016, select two more villages for this purpose, before we go for the General Elections in 2019. And after 2019, each Member of Parliament, during his/her tenure of 5 years must establish atleast five model villages in his/her area. I also call upon the Members of Parliament from urban areas to adopt one village of their choice. I also urge upon the Members of Parliament from Rajya Sabha to adopt one of the villages. If we provide one model village in each district of India then the surrounding villages shall be automatically inspired to follow that model.

    Let us establish a model village, let us establish a village well equipped with all systems and facilities. The birth anniversary of Jai Prakash Narayan Ji happens to be on 11th October. On 11th October, the occasion of birth anniversary of Jai Prakash Narayan Ji, I will present a complete blueprint of “S?nsad Adharsh Gr?m Yojana” (Members of Parliament Model Village Scheme) before all Members of Parliament and State Governments, and I urge upon State Governments also that as per the feasibility in their respective states, all the Members of Legislative Assembly resolve to establish a model villageYou can imagine all the Members of Legislative Assembly and all the Members of Parliament in the country establishing a model village.

    All of a sudden, there would be a model village in each block of India which could inspire us to transform the amenities in rural areas and could give us a new direction and, therefore, we want to move ahead under this”S?nsad Adarsh Gr?m Yojana”. My dear brothers and sisters, ever since our government has taken charge, there has been a discussion in the newspapers, on T.V. channels as to what would happen to Planning Commission. I believe that when Planning Commission was constituted, it was done on the basis of the circumstances and the needs of those times. In recent years, Planning Commission has contributed to the growth of the country in its own way. I respect that, I am proud of that, but the prevalent situation in the country is different, global scenario has also changed, governments are no longer the centre of economic activities, the scope of such activities has broadened. State governments have been at the center of development and I consider this a good indication.

    If we have to take India forward, it can happen only by taking the states forward. India`s federal structure is more important today than in the last 60 years. To strengthen our federal structure, to make our federal structure vibrant, to take our federal structure as a heritage of development, a team of Chief Minister and Prime Minister should be there, a joint team of the Centre and the states should move forward, then to do this job, we will have to think about giving the Planning Commission a look. So, I am saying from the rampart of the Red Fort that it is a very old system and it will have to be rejuvenated, it will have to be changed a lot. Sometimes it costs more to repair the old house, but, it gives us no satisfaction.

    Thereafter, we have a feeling that it would be better to construct a new house altogether and therefore within a short period, we will replace the planning commission with a new institution having a new design and structure, a new body, a new soul, a new thinking, a new direction, a new faith towards forging a new direction to lead the country based on creative thinking, public-private partnership, optimum utilization of resources, utilization of youth power of the nation, to promote the aspirations of state governments seeking development, to empower the state governments and to empower the federal structure.

    Very shortly, we are about to move in a direction when this institute would be functioning in place of Planning Commission. Brothers and sisters, today, on 15th August, we also have the birth anniversary of Maharishi Aurobindo. Maharishi Aurobindo, being a rebel, moved on to achieve the status of a Yoga Guru. With regard to the destiny of India, he remarked, “I have a faith that the divine power and spiritual heritage of India will play an important role towards the welfare of the world.” Such sentiments were echoed by Maharishi Arvind. I strongly believe in the words of legends. I have great faith in the statements made by ascetics, sages & saints and that’s why today at the ramparts of Lal Quila I am reminded of the words of Swami Viveknanda. He had said – “I can see before my eyes Mother India awakening once again.

    My Mother India would be seated as the World Guru. Every Indian would render service towards welfare of humanity. This legacy of India would be useful for the welfare of the world”. These words were spoken by Swami Viveknanda ji in his own style. Friends, the words of Viveknanda ji can never be untrue. The words of Viveknanda ji, his dream of seeing India ensconced as World Guru, his vision, it is incumbent upon us to realize that dream. This capable country, blessed with natural bounty, this country of youth can do much for the world in the coming days. Brothers and sisters, our foreign policy is a much talked about issue. I clearly believe that India`s foreign policy can be multidimensional.

    But there is an important issue to which I want to draw your attention that the way we fought for freedom, we fought together, we were not separate at that time. We were together. Which was the government with us? What were the weapons available to us? There was a Gandhi, a Sardar and lakhs of freedom fighters and such a huge empire. Didn`t we win in the struggle of freedom against that empire? Did we not defeat the foreign powers? Did we not force them to leave India? We were the ones, they were our ancestors only who showed this might. If the people of India could remove such a big empire without the power of the government, without weapons and even without resources, then friends, it is the need of the hour to eradicate poverty, can we not overcome poverty? Can we not defeat poverty? My 125 crore dear countrymen, let us resolve to eradicate poverty, to win against it.

    Let us move with the dream of poverty eradication from India. Our neighbouring countries are also faced with the same problem. Why not get together with all the SAARC nations to plan out the fight against poverty? Let`s fight together and defeat poverty. Let us see at-least for once as to how wonderful is the feeling of being alive instead of killing and getting killed. This is the land where incidents from Siddharth`s life happened. One bird was shot with an arrow by one brother and the other took out that arrow to save it. They went to mother- whose bird, whose swan? Whether killer`s or saviour`s, they asked of mother. The mother replied, saviour`s. The saviour has more power than the killer and that makes him Buddha in future. And that`s why I seek cooperation from neighbouring countries for fighting against povertyin concert and cooperate with them, so that together with SAARC countries we can create our importance and emerge as a power in the world.

    It is imperative that we work together with a dream to win a fight against poverty, shoulder to shoulder. I went to Bhutan, Nepal, all the dignitaries from SAARC countries took part in oath-taking ceremony; this marked a good beginning. This will definitely yield good results, it is my belief and this thinking of India, in the country and the world, that we want to do well to the countrymen and be useful for the welfare of the world, India wants such a hand to be extended. We are trying to move forward with these dreams to achieve them. Brothers and Sisters, today on 15th August we will resolve to do something for the country.

    Let`s be useful for the country, we will move ahead with a resolve to take the country forward, and I assure you, Brothers and Sisters, as well as my colleagues in the Government, that if you work for 12 hours, I will do so for 13 hours. If you work for 14 hours, I will do for 15 hours. Why? Because I`m amidst you not as a Prime Minister, but as the first servant. I have formed the Government not as a ruler, but as a servant. Brothers and sisters, I assure that this country has a destiny. It is destined to work for the welfare of the world, it was said by Vivekanand ji. India is born, this Hindustan is born in order to achieve this destiny. One hundred and twenty five crore countrymen have to move forward wholeheartedly for the welfare of the nation. Once again I feel proud of the devotion, the sacrifices of the security forces of the country, para-military forces of the country, all the security forces of the country to protect Mother India. I say to the countrymen, jk”Vª;ke] tkxz;ke~ o;e~ Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty”. The army is vigilant, we should also be vigilant and the country scales new heights, we have to move forward with this resolution. Speak loudly with me with full force –

    Bharat mata ki jai, bharat mata ki jai, bharat mata ki jai. Jai Hind, Jai Hind, Jai Hind. Vande Mataram, Vande Mataram, Vande Mataram!

  • GOPIO Cosponsors First Successful Health Fair

    GOPIO Cosponsors First Successful Health Fair

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Healthcare is a big issue for new immigrants, especially elderly people. While Medicare is available to virtually all citizens, starting at age 65, immigrants legally present in the U.S. for less than five years are not eligible and private insurance companies generally do not offer health insurance plans for those over 65. Although there are health insurance options, but these are usually catastrophic traveler’s insurance.


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    Organizers. From L to R: Sam Mukherjee, Mayur Modi, Zafar Iqbal, Dr. Surinder Singh Gill


    They usually have a very high deductible and they are very expensive. In view of these harsh realities facing elderly community members from the Subcontinent, the Masjid Gulzar E Madina of Islamic Center Millford Mill Road, Pikesville, Maryland took a bold initiative to organize a first health fair on Sunday 23rd November2014. A number of area community organizations, such as the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) – Metropolitan Washington, Philippines Nurses Association, Chinese Culture and Community Center, Muslim Community Clinic Inc., Silver Spring, Capital Region Telugu Society, Kerala Cultural Organization and Hindu Seva, co-sponsored this event.

    A large number of physicians, nurses, and healthcare workers volunteered their resources and worked tirelessly to provide their services for a large number of attendees covering a wide range of ages. An easy access to physicians of diverse specialties under one roof provided convenient consultation for wide range of medical issues. In addition to primary care, the medical specialties available for free consultations in a privacy setting included primary care, endocrinology, gastroenterology, hematology-oncology, otolaryngology, orthopedics, rheumatology, and medical ID cards for the community.

    Colgate-sponsored dental van provided dental consultation for children ages 1 to 12. Maryland Physicians Care Van made nutritional healthy food, Amerigroup sponsored Moon Bounce for children, and Columbia Lite House Van did eye sight screenings. The health fair also provided massage therapy and yoga enthusiasts displayed their skills and love for healthy living. Besides yoga sessions on site, there were diabetes and cancer prevention education vendors, healthy living demos and advice booths.

    Mental and behavioral health information, often a taboo topic, was sensitively offered by Counselors Helping South Asians/Indians (Chai). The Samar Group obtained bone marrow sign ups and the Washington Regional Transplant enrolled organ donor. Volunteers from a local Farm Market gave a wide range of fresh vegetables to all attendees. “The outstanding accomplishments of the day were made possible by the cohesive and dedicated collaboration of the Health Fair planning team, physicians, allied medical personnel, county and state health agencies, voluntary charitable organizations countless volunteers, Masjid management, and the Health Fair Advertising team as well as the support of the local organizations,” said Dr. Zafar Iqbal, President GOPIO DC Chapter.

    This successful event was coordinated by Mayur Mody and the management of Islamic Center thanked him for providing excellent leadership with efficient and indefatigable energy. The logistics for medical team was coordinated by Dr. Surinder Singh Gill and Dr. Alif Manijwala, and Dr. Sukhpal headed the team of volunteers. The health fair was open to people of all different ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds and over 400 people were able to get medical consultation.

  • 20 years on, kin of girls switched at birth sue clinic for €12m

    20 years on, kin of girls switched at birth sue clinic for €12m

    LONDON (TIP): Sophie and Manon Serrano might be taken for sisters. The mother, 38, and daughter, 20, are the same height, have long, dark hair and are besties, too. They walked arm in arm into a court in the south of France this week to complain that they should never have known each other. When Manon was 10, she found that her mother was not her mother after all.

    Her “real” mother was living 20 miles away with a little girl whose “real” mother was Sophie. In July 1994, a few days after their birth, the two girls were placed in the same cot at a maternity clinic in Cannes. After treatment for jaundice, they were returned to the wrong mothers. The changelings were 10 before the mistake was revealed. The “other” baby and her “parents” were also represented in court in Grasse this week but they requested anonymity. Each young woman is cherished by her accidental foster family.

    Neither family wants to swap daughters. They are, though, suing for 12m: 2m for each daughter, the rest for their families. They say the maternity clinic and health staff involved – or at least their insurance companies – should pay exemplary damages for their two decades of emotional suffering. Judgment is expected in February. The story sounds like a film script. And, indeed, one of the most repeated movies on French TV, ‘La Vie est un Longue Fleuve Tranquille’ (Life is a long quiet river), tells an almost identical story. The real story unfolded in the court was further complicated by race.

    Manon’s birth parents are from Reunion, a French island. Although Manon looks strikingly like her non-biological mother, she has darker skin. When the mistake was discovered 10 years ago, the two families briefly befriended each another, before drifting apart.

  • China’s anti-graft watchdog face criticism after naming female officials for practicing adultery

    China’s anti-graft watchdog face criticism after naming female officials for practicing adultery

    BEIJING (TIP): China’s anticorruption officials are being widely criticized for publicly shaming two high-ranking female officials for committing adultery besides accumulating illicit money. Critics are saying that adultery is not illegal, and anti-graft officials have no business to use it as a tool against suspects. The criticism, mostly voiced over different Internet forum, came after the Communist Party’s anti-graft body, Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, specifically named two female officials saying they “committed adultery with others”. They referred to Zhang Xiuping, former deputy Party chief from Jinzhong, and Yang Xiaobo, former mayor of Gaoping. The watchdog has punished a total of 80,000 party officials, both male and female, for corruption since Xi Jinping took charge as president in March last year.

    Faced with criticism, the watchdog said adultery was not against the law, but was regarded as unacceptable behavior for Party members. In 2014, at least 20 senior female officials have been investigated by central government and provincial anti-graft watchdogs for crimes involving the abuse of power. The move raised questions on whether female officials used sex to rise in power and position, and later use their station to garner bribes. The official media cited names of officials with whom these female officials allegedly had sexual liaison.

    There is a sharp rise in the number of female officials involved in corruption cases, the official media quoted officials at the Supreme Procuratorate, the office of the chief prosecutor, as saying. Most of the women were found to have offered or accepted bribes. “Corruption has nothing to do with age and gender,” Li Chengyan, a researcher with Peking University, told the Beijing News. “It has to do with loopholes of legal supervision on power, and how power should be restrained accordingly.” Other female officials punished include Jiang Runli, former director of Fushun Land Resources Bureau in Liaoning province, who was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2012 for accepting over $810,000 in bribes.

    Searches of her house produced 48 top brand watches and 253 designer handbags. In another case, Liu Guangming, a senior female official in Anshan, Liaoning province, allegedly spent $650,000 worth of bribes on plastic surgery. In Beijing, a dozen female officials were caught for corruption linked to high-end beauty salons in 2012. One official, Bai Hong, former chairwoman of the labor union of Beijing Health Bureau, who spent $75,000 on beauty-salon, was given imprisonment for five years.

  • PORN MAKES MEN PRONE TO CHEATING?

    PORN MAKES MEN PRONE TO CHEATING?

    According to a recent study, watching pornography may increase a man’s urge to cheat. Does this hold true for you? Have you ever come across a guy who has never watched porn? “No!” will be your quick reply and “Is that even possible?”, you will wonder. The saying, ‘Men will always be men’ aptly sums it up. While some women have made peace with the fact that men do watch porn – well, simply because it’s a ‘guy thing’ – there are others who are not comfortable with their boyfriend/ husband doing so. The main reason is, women fear that their men will turn unfaithful, tempted by carnal desires. Well, that fear is somewhat justified because, according to a recent study, watching porn does increase men’s likelihood to cheat. This is in tandem with a previous study which claimed unfaithful men are more than three times likely to watch porn regularly.

    What’s the connection?

    According to study author A Marlea Gwinn, of the University of Central Florida, porn offers men access to nostrings- attached sex, often with multiple highly attractive partners. Even though a man knows that it’s all make-believe, porn reinforces the idea that there are many attractive options besides his partner. The erotic images also trigger an instinct to reproduce, but with multiple sex partners and not in a loving, steady relationship, adds Gwinn.

    Expert speak

    Says sexologist and consultant psychiatrist Dr Dhananjay Gambhire, “Watching porn may increase your courage to take one more step and cheat. I have observed that watching porn is more common in men who cheat or visit prostitutes.” Consultant psychiatrist Dr Milan Balakrishnan says, “Watching porn alone doesn’t increase the risk of cheating on your partner. Those who are more impulsive and take decisions without weighing the consequences are more likely to cheat. They are also the ones who are more likely to try substance abuse and indulge in risky behaviour. So, watching porn may just be a coincidence; it does not point to a direct connection.

    Don’t demonise porn

    All said and done, viewing porn is not unhealthy. It’s a problem only when it becomes an addiction, says Dr Milan Balakrishnan. “This does not mean we need to demonise porn, because it can be used as an effective and safe way of channelising libido in those who are unmarried or lack partners.Watching porn together may also spice up a couple’s sex life. So, it’s alright upto an extent where it does not become the axis around which your life revolves and doesn’t make you feel guilty,” he adds.

    Curb your porn time

    Take a decision to abstain

    Remove all resources that gives you access to porn.

    Utilise the free time for other hobbies.

    Decide if you want to control your sexual urge. If you are married, talk to your partner and spice up your sex life.

    If it’s still not working, and you feel you are addicted to porn, meet a therapist.

  • Winter-proof your colour cosmetics

    Winter-proof your colour cosmetics

    With the onset of winter season, give your makeup regime a makeover too. Make-up artist Annalia Zhimomi says maintaining a wellmoisturised skin is a necessity. After cleansing, toning and moisturising, “the next step is to prepare and prime your skin with a primer so that your foundation is applied smoothly and evenly.” “I would recommend investing in a high quality primer as it makes sure that it lasts longer. It also avoids patchiness, clogging of pores, breakouts and even works in improving the quality of your skin,” Zhimomi said. Women with dry and mature skin should use a hydration primer.

    For those who have oily skin or a mix of oily and dry skin should try mattifying primer. For discoloured skin, one can apply colour corrector primer. Women should be careful while selecting foundation too. “For dry skin, liquid foundation with dewy effect or a creme based foundation are good. They should be applied with a beauty blender (sponge) as it avoids skin from becoming flaky,” she said. “Oily skin should be tackled with a mattifying light weight foundation and it must be sealed with powder as this will help the make-up to last longer,” she added.

    Another important tip she shared is foundation should be applied with the help of a buffing brush in circulation motion as it helps minimise pores. For lips, she says stick to dark rich colours. “One can go for velvety and berry shades like red berry and plum hues,” she said.

  • MYTHS ABOUT MEDITATION

    MYTHS ABOUT MEDITATION

    With close to six billion minds active from moment to moment, there are endless streams of thoughts on every aspect of creation. Some thoughts perceive reality the way it is and some are imagination. While there are myths about many topics, the most popular one is meditation. The word, ‘meditation’ conjures up all kinds of images and notions. If you are wondering whether meditation is meant for you, read on to find out. Here is a list of the most common myths, hoping that any confusion that you might have is cleared.

    Myth #1 Meditation is concentration

    Meditation is actually deconcentration. Concentration is a benefit of meditation. Concentration requires effort and meditation is absolute relaxation of the mind. Meditation is letting go, and when that happens, you are in a state of deep rest. When the mind is relaxed, we can concentrate better.

    Myth #2 Meditation, a religious practice

    Yoga and meditation are ancient practices that transcend all religions. In fact, meditation has the ability to bring religions, nations and faiths together. Just like the sun shines for everyone, and the wind blows for everyone, meditation benefits everyone. “We encourage people from all backgrounds, religions and cultural traditions to come together and meditate in a spirit of celebration,” says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

    Myth #4 Meditation is for old people

    Meditation is universal and adds value to the lives of people of all age groups. One can start mediating at the age of eight or nine. Just like a shower keeps the body clean, meditation is a great tonic for the mind.

    Myth #5 Meditation is like hypnotising yourself

    Meditation is an antidote for hypnosis. In hypnotism, the person is not aware of what he or she is going through. Meditation is complete awareness of each and every moment. Hypnotism takes the person through the same impressions that are in his mind. Meditation frees us from these impressions so that our consciousness is fresh and clear. Hypnotism increase metabolic activity, meditation reduces it. “Those who practice pranayama and meditation regularly cannot be hypnotized easily,” says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

    Myth #6 Meditation is thought control

    Thoughts do not come to us by invitation. We become aware of them only after they have arrived! Thoughts are like clouds in the sky. They come and go on their own. Trying to control thoughts involves effort and the key to a relaxed mind is effortlessness. In meditation, we do not crave for good thoughts nor are we averse to bad thoughts. We simply witness and eventually transcend thoughts and move into that deep inner silent space.

    Myth #7 Meditation is a way of running away from problems

    On the contrary, meditation empowers you to face problems with a smile. These skills, help us handle situations in a pleasant and constructive manner. We also develop the ability to accept situations as they are and take conscious action instead of brooding over the past or worrying about the future. Meditation nurtures inner strength and self-esteem. It acts like an umbrella during rainy days. Challenges will arise, but we can still move ahead with confidence.

    Myth #8 You have to meditate for hours to go deep

    You do not have to sit for hours to have a deeper experience in meditation. The connection with your inner core or your source can happen in just a fraction of a moment. Just a 20-minute session of Sahaj Samadhi meditation every morning and evening is sufficient to take you on this beautiful inward journey. As you practice your meditation every day, the quality of your meditation will improve gradually.

    Myth #9 If you meditate, you will become a sanyasi (monk or recluse)

    You do not have to give up a material life to meditate or progress on the spiritual path. In fact, the quality of your enjoyment improves greatly as you meditate. With a relaxed and peaceful mind, you are able to live happily and make others in your family and surroundings happy too.

    Myth #10 You can only meditate at certain times, facing certain directions

    Anytime is a good time for meditation and all directions are good for meditation. The only thing to keep in mind is that your stomach should not be full; else you may doze off instead of meditating. However, it is a good practice to meditate during sunrise and sunset (morning and evening) as it can keep you calm and energetic throughout the day.

  • DON’T IGNORE CANCER SYMPTOMS

    DON’T IGNORE CANCER SYMPTOMS

    Perhaps driven by fear, people often prefer to dismissing potential warning signs of cancer, thereby putting their lives at risk, says a study. In the study involving 1,700 people, more than half (53 percent) said they had experienced at least one redflag cancer ‘alarm’ symptom during the previous three months, but only two percent of them thought that cancer was a possible cause, the findings showed.

    The results showed that people rarely attributed potential signs of cancer to the disease, putting them down to other reasons instead, such as age, infection, arthritis, piles and cysts. “Most people with potential warning symptoms don’t have cancer, but some will and others may have other diseases that would benefit from early attention,” said lead study author Katriina Whitaker, senior research fellow at University College London. “That is why it is important that these symptoms are checked out, especially if they do not go away. But people could delay seeing a doctor if they do not acknowledge cancer as a possible cause,” Whitaker added.

    The researchers found that even the more obvious warning symptoms, such as unexplained lumps or changes to the appearance of a mole, were rarely attributed to cancer, although they are often well recognised in surveys that assess the public’s knowledge of the disease. “Most cancers are picked up through people going to their doctors about symptoms. This study indicates that opportunities for early diagnosis are being missed,” said Sara Hiom, director of early diagnosis at Cancer Research UK.

  • KEEP YOUR LIVER HEALTHY

    KEEP YOUR LIVER HEALTHY

    The liver is the biggest organ in the human body and has a host of functions. Not only does it play a big role in the digestion process and maintains blood sugar levels but also helps fight against infection. Needless to say, it is imperative to ensure that your liver stays healthy . Here’s what you need to do… Your liver is in charge of removing toxins. So when you subject your body to excess alcohol or substance abuse, you liver has to work much harder to flush them out of your system.

    Cut back on your consumption of harmful products if you want your liver to stay healthy. If you binge drink, let your liver recover naturally by abstaining from alcohol for at least two days. Strange as it may sound, exercising also helps keep the liver healthy. A certain type of liver disease known as Non- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) occurs when there is fat build up in the liver. This can cause serious damage to your liver. And experts suggest exercising as one of the most effective ways of avoiding this disease.

    DETOX FOODS FOR A HEALTHY LIVER

    Be generous with your garlic when you’re cooking. Studies say that garlic helps your liver mobilise enzymes that remove toxins from your body. It also has a high amount of natural compounds like seleni um and allicin, which clean the liver. Flush out toxins by having green tea, which contains antioxidants called catechins, known to improve liver functioning. Lettuce and spinach nullify the effect of chemicals and pesticides that make their way in what we eat and protect the liver.

    Beetroot is an excellent way to detoxify your liver. When you eat avocados, your body produces an antioxidant known as glutathione, which keeps out harmful substances. Walnuts contain glu tathione and omega-3 fatty acids, which sup port the liver in removing toxins.

  • WAYS TO INCREASE POSITIVITY IN HOME

    WAYS TO INCREASE POSITIVITY IN HOME

    Here are some tips from a Vastu and Feng Shui expert for a life full of harmony. In the present complex scenario, we do not find time for ourselves to analyze the various reasons that lead us to failures in health, wealth or relationships. Most of these problems are connected to major Vastu and Feng Shui defects.

    Always stand in the centre of your house with a compass in your hand to find out the directions of your house. The main entrance is the mouth of a house which brings in the energy. Avoid a property which has a door facing south-west, as it is the entry of the devil energy and brings in struggle and misfortunes. If your house already has one, fix two Hanumanji tiles outside the door and see the difference.

    Mandir or altar is the king of all Vastu rules – place it in the North- East and everything will start falling in place. Also, face the East while praying.

    Kitchen is the symbol of prosperity and should be ideally placed in the southeast. Kitchen in the North or North-East may bring financial and health problems. In this case, hang three bronze bowls upside down on the ceiling but do not hang over the stove.

    Master bedroom is the key to enter the door of stability and it must be in the South-West. You should sleep with your head in the South or West. But a breadwinner must never sleep in the North-East .

    Bathrooms and toilets have the energy of ‘hell’ which are best in West or South. But should never be in North and North-East or they bring financial, health and educational problems.

    Centre is the nose of your house from where your house breathes. It must be open and clutter-free. A wall here gives stomach and financial problems so fix a zero watt blue bulb on this wall and keep it on 24×7 .

    Cuts in any direction make a house paralyzed, mainly cuts in South-West, North, North-East and South-East give serious problems. There are many mysteries and secrets regarding the cuts and their cures.

    Tips

    Never use too much of bright colors such as red and purple for decorating your house or they may enhance sickness energy in the house, if any.

    Do not keep pictures of water or a fountain in your bedroom. It might adversely affect you.

    Do not keep your mandir/temple under any beam or cupboard or you will be always under stress.

  • BONDING TIME WITH YOUR KID

    BONDING TIME WITH YOUR KID

    When was the last time you actually spent some time doing something different with your kid/ kids? While children today are even more busy than their parents — with school, tuitions, dance classes, extracurricular activities, birthday parties, school trips – don’t allow these things to take over your child’s life completely. And more importantly, don’t allow them to hinder bonding time with your kid.

    Take them to a different place once a week – this could be a new garden, a new grocery shop or even a new mall. Encourage them to suggest different places.

    Take up a hobby together with your child. Diya painting, paper mache, pottery, bicycling, badminton, stamp collecting, gardening – the list is endless.

    Board games can be entertaining and educational as well. For example, through Monopoly you can teach your child the basics of finance. Encourage your child to express through drawing in the game of Pictionary. There are hundreds of fun board games in the family. Dedicate two hours a week to them and see how much the family will enjoy them. Even jigsaw puzzles are a great way to bond with your child. Start with small sized ones – 50 pieces ones and once you get the hang of them, move to the 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 piece puzzles.

    Allow your child to make something in the kitchen. Small tasks like peeling fruits and vegetables, making sandwiches or rolls can be a lot of fun.

    Take your kids to a theme park and sit on all the rides with them. This way your can sit on different rides together and make it a fun day out.

  • STRETCH YOUR WAY TO GOOD HEALTH

    STRETCH YOUR WAY TO GOOD HEALTH

    Stretching is an important and oft neglected part of a workout. Not stretching enough can cause a lot of damage since your muscles get exerted during a workout. Experts say that not only does stretching correctly improve your flexibility, it also ensures that your exercise regime is more effective.

    Instead of focusing just on cardio or resistance training, keep a few minutes aside just to stretch, both before and after your workout session. Stretching for about five to 10 minutes before exercising warms your body up for the impending workout. Here are a few things that you should keep in mind… Make sure that you’re relaxed while stretching. When you’re mentally stressed, it will reflect on your body as well, making it tight and unresponsive.

    This, in turn, will make stretching rather painful. Be aware of your breathing – take deep breaths and never hold your breath while stretching. Start slowly, and increase the intensity gradually. You don’t want to pull a muscle in the very first week. As you stretch, feel the pull in your muscles and hold the position for at least 15 to 20 seconds.

    As time passes, your body will get used to the stretching and you will become more flexible and will be able to challenge your body further. When you stretch, don’t move or bounce. You could end up overstretching the muscle and injuring yourself. While a little bit of pain is considered normal during stretching, if the pain gets intense, stop immediately. It could mean that you have overstretched a muscle.

    Benefits of stretching include:

    Lowers the risk of injury Improves posture and flexibility Lowers the chances of soreness in muscles.

  • MUST-HAVE HEALTHY SPICES IN YOUR KITCHEN

    MUST-HAVE HEALTHY SPICES IN YOUR KITCHEN

    Outlined below are some of the most commonly used Ayurvedic spices, which when used in cooking, not only enhance the taste of the meal, but also make it nutritious and balancing:

    Coriander (Dhania)

    The coriander seed is truly a cook’s best friend as it aids in the assimilation of other herbs and spices used during cooking. Known to be gracious to all the doshas, this spice is famous in Ayurveda for its use in balancing the body and mind. Coriander is also beneficial in digestive, respiratory and urinary disorders, as well as treating skin ailments caused by Pitta aggravation.

    Ginger (Adrak)

    An irreplacable spice in any kitchen, Ginger brings flavor and pungency to food and is used widely as a digestive. Known as ‘the universal medicine’ for its healing properties, Ginger provides an excellent remedy for respiratory conditions caused by aggravation of Kapha and Vata. Apart from vegetables and lentils, this invigorating spice is also used in herbal tea to treat common cold and cough.

    Cumin (Jeera)

    Widely used as a flavoring agent and condiment in curries and lentils, Cumin is known for its aromatic qualities. This spice is used as a stimulant for digestive disorders and even as an antiseptic. It also enhances the functioning of the liver and pancreas, enabling the body to cleanse accumulated toxins and absorb nutrients better.

    Fenugreek (Methi)

    Fenugreek is highly valuable for its healing properties. It is helpful in treating digestive, respiratory, nervous, and menstrual disorders, as well as purifying the skin and facilitating weight loss. Drinking water with Fenugreek seeds soaked overnight helps in reducing blood sugar levels in the body. Bitter-sweet in flavor, this spice is popularly used in Indian cooking for vegetables and dals.

    Turmeric (Haldi)

    Referred to as the Indian Saffron, Turmeric is bitter, astringent and pungent in taste. It has been known for centuries for its many therapeutic qualities, including anti-oxidant, antiinflammatory and anti-septic properties. Widely regarded as an indispensable part of Indian cuisine, Turmeric enhances metabolism and helps the body to reduce undesirable fatty deposits when used in cooking.

  • CONSUMING YOGHURT DAILY COULD LOWER DIABETES RISK

    CONSUMING YOGHURT DAILY COULD LOWER DIABETES RISK

    Including yogurt in your daily diet could lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, a study says. Consumption of one 28g serving of yogurt per day is associated with an 18 percent lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, the findings showed. “We found that higher intake of yogurt is associated with a reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes, whereas other dairy foods and consumption of total dairy did not show this association,” said senior researcher of the study Frank Hu from the Harvard School of Public Health in the US. The findings suggest that yogurt can be incorporated into a healthy dietary pattern, Hu added.

    Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin, or the body’s cells develop resistance to insulin. It has been shown that probiotic bacteria found in yoghurt improve fat profiles and antioxidant status in people with Type 2 diabetes and the researchers suggest this could have a risk-lowering effect in developing the condition.

    The researchers pooled the results of three prospective cohort studies that followed the medical history and lifestyle habits of health professionals. The study involved a total of 289,900 participants. Within the three cohorts, 15,156 cases of Type 2 diabetes were identified during the follow-up period.

    When adjusting for chronic disease risk factors such as age and BMI (body mass index) as well as dietary factors, it was found that high consumption of yogurt was associated with a lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The findings were confirmed when the authors conducted a meta-analysis, incorporating their results and other published studies up to March 2013.

  • Nasal spray offers hope for Ebola protection

    Nasal spray offers hope for Ebola protection

    Anew study has revealed that a nasal vaccine in works has the potential for long-lasting protection from Ebola virus. Results from a small pre-clinical study at The University of Texas at Austin represent the only proof to date that a single dose of a non-injectable vaccine platform for Ebola is long-lasting, which could have significant global implications in controlling future outbreaks.

    Researcher Maria Croyle and colleagues at the university developed a nasal formulation that improved survival of immunized non-human primates from 67 percent (2 out of 3) to 100 percent (3 out of 3) after challenge with 1,000 plaque forming units of Ebola Zaire 150 days after immunization. This is important since only 50 percent of the primates given the vaccine by the standard route (intramuscular injection) survived challenge. Jonsson- Schmunk said that Ebola causes devastating outbreaks with fatality rates of 25 – 90 percent in Africa and Asia and although progress has been made in understanding the virus’ biology, no licensed vaccines or treatments currently exist.

    Schmunk added that there is a desperate need for a vaccine that not only prevents the continued transmission from person to person, but also aids in controlling future incidences and the main advantage of their vaccine platform over the others in clinical testing is the long-lasting protection after a single intranasal dose. Schmunk continued that this is important since the longevity of other vaccines for Ebola that are currently being evaluated is not fully understood and moreover, the nasal spray immunization method is more attractive than a needle vaccine given the costs associated with syringe distribution and safety.

  • Botched sterilizations: Fungus-laden anaesthesia used at health camp

    Botched sterilizations: Fungus-laden anaesthesia used at health camp

    RAIPUR (TIP): It was not just antibiotics laced with rat poison (zinc phosphide) that was administered on victims of botched surgeries at Bilaspur health camps, local anaesthesia injected on women at the Gaurella camp in the district were laden with fungus. One woman died after tubectomy at this camp. Sources said a few batches of fungus-ridden Lignocaine injection, used as anaesthesia, were supplied by Indore-based company Kabra Drugs. Though government withdrew the stock of contaminated injections from the government hospital and health centres, officials admit these injections were used at the Gaurella camp. Health commissioner Pratap Singh said though fungus was found in 3 batches of Lignocaine, vials were removed last September.

    He said the company had been blacklisted for 5 years. Pratap said Chhattisgarh Medical Services Corporation (CGMSC) had been procuring and supplying injections from the company since September, 2013, and the last batch was received earlier this month. “We do stability tests on stocks. It was a manufacturing glitch on vials, which developed spores and fungus was detected on Wednesday evening,” he said. Data available at CGMSC website show around 2.37 lakh vials (30 ml each) of Lignocaine injection from batches recalled by the government are still in stock. About 13,836 units are in the Bilaspur warehouse. This is the second instance in less than four months when drugs procured by CGMSC have been found contaminated with fungus. In July, the corporation recalled 98 batches of the intravenous fluid bottles manufactured by a Madhya Pradesh company, DJ Laboratory, after detection of fungus

  • Saradha scam: Ahead of CBI grilling, Bengal minister in hospital

    Saradha scam: Ahead of CBI grilling, Bengal minister in hospital

    Kolkata (TIP): A day before he was scheduled to appear for questioning at the CBI office in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam,West Bengal Transport and Sports Minister Madan Mitra was on November 20 admitted to the state’s largest government hospital with a complaint of breathing disorder. Mitra, who was admitted in a private nursing home since Nov 18, left the health facility and reached SSKM Hospital on November 20 afternoon and was admitted in the Woodburn ward, reserved for VIPs.SSKM director Pradip Mitra said the minister complained of dyspnea (breathing problems). He was undergoing a series of tests. A journalist, who was with Madan Mitra just before he left the nursing home, claimed the minister “left suddenly” without taking even his security guard with him.